Ipodlounge reviews the 2nd generation iPod Minis, which were released last month in 4- and 6-gb flavors and feature a much-souped-up 18-hour battery life. The new batch is also cheaper than the originals, at US$199 for the 4gb model and US$249 for the 6.
What’s peculiar about these new minis is that they don’t seem to come with a power adapter, meaning you will be stuck charging your iPod via your computer’s USB 2.0 port (unless of course, you had the foresight to buy the now-optional cables). I find this to be really weird because 1) not everyone has USB 2.0 ports on their machines, and 2) it’s mildly inconvenient to have to free up a port for four hours of iPod-charging every other day. To be honest, I don’t think I’ve ever charged my iRiver via USB, although the option is certainly available. Most desktops don’t have more than 2 USB ports accessible from the front of the chassis, and reaching around the back is a real hassle when your computer is under the desk. Charging with a dedicated power adapter just makes more sense don’t you think?