Apple today announced the iPod nano RED Special Edition. The new iPod was created by U2 lead singer Bono to help in the fight against AIDS in Africa. The iPod nano RED Special Edition is available in a 4GB model for $199. A portion of the profits from these products goes directly to the Global Fund to fund programs for women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa. The iPod nano RED comes in a red aluminum enclosure and features 24 hours of battery life, Apple's Click Wheel and a thin and light design. Apple will contribute $10 from the sale of each iPod nano (PRODUCT) RED to the Global Fund to help fight HIV/AIDS in Africa. Apple will also offer a $25 iTunes RED gift card available for purchase at Apple's retail and online stores next month.

"We're ecstatic that Apple is giving their customers the choice to buy a red iPod nano and help women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa," said Bono, co-founder of (RED). "It's wonderful to see this incredible level of commitment from companies that are willing to lend their creativity in the fight against AIDS in Africa, the greatest health crisis in 600 years."

"Now customers can buy the best music player in the world and do something to help the world at the same time," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We're honored to work with Bono, (RED) and this team to contribute to an incredibly important initiative and help change the way people think about AIDS in Africa."

The iPod nano (PRODUCT) RED Special Edition is available worldwide in a 4GB model for $199 (US) through Apple's retail stores and the Apple Store (www.apple.com). All iPod nano models include redesigned earbud headphones and a USB 2.0 cable. The second generation iPod nano features up to 24 hours of battery life and completely skip-free playback. The iTunes RED gift card will be available through Apple's retail stores and the Apple Store (www.apple.com) next month for $25 (US).