Looks like I'll be purchasing my birthday present a little late this year... I've been anxiously awaiting the long-rumored 60GB iPods, since my music collection has now grown to over 40 gigs, and no longer fits on my "puny" 30GB model. I can't wait!!!

Apple will announce new models of its standard 'white' iPods on Monday, Think Secret has learned. According to sources, the company plans to unveil thinner, sleeker white iPods with a major announcement on Monday, July 19. While the enclosure will be the same general size as that of current iPods, it will be thinner; it will also have a new scroll wheel of different color and design. [Think Secret]

updated: MacRumors notes that Newsweek is doing a cover story on the iPod. The article mentions the new iPods, and a separate article at MSNBC gives details on the specs: new mini-like wheel, improved menus and other new features, including better on-the-go playlist management, and a 50% boost to battery life, to 12 hours. Two models are mentioned, a $299 20GB model and a $399 40GB model. Missing (for now) is the predicted $499 60GB model... the one I need, naturally :(

update 2: According to this article, "no plans in regard to announcing 60-gigabyte models." Say it ain't so !! I guess we'll have to wait & see.