As part of a continuing partnership with popular Irish rock band U2, Apple has introduced the new U2 Special Edition iPod an upgrade of the existing U2 iPod.

Coming with a sophisticated black stainless steel exterior and a blood-red click wheel, U2 Special Edition is based on the fifth generation of 30GB iPod and can hold 7,500 songs.

The exterior of the special iPod also features customised engravings of band members names and comes with a free 30 minutes of U2 video, available for download from iTunes.

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing said: “We’re thrilled to continue working with one of the greatest bands in the world to bring U2 fans a special edition of the world’s best digital music player.

“With its distinctive new design, including an all-black stainless steel enclosure, the new U2 iPod is sure to be a hit.”

Selling for £177 the U2 Special Edition will be immediately available through the Apple store online.

U2 frontman Bono, a fervent political activist, recently gave US President George Bush a gift of an iPod nano.

© 2006 Adfero Ltd