Apple Inc has added iPhone and iPad functions to its new line of iPods, including high definition displays, a more powerful processor, video calling and multi-touch screens.

Besides the new iPods, the US-based firm also released a second-generation Apple TV with an HD video rental service and new iTunes 10 software with social networking during an event on Wednesday in San Francisco.

The new iPod Touch, at 1,798 yuan (US$264) for the 8-gigabyte version, has four times as many pixels than before to provide better image quality for video and games.

The device, which Chief Executive Steve Jobs called "the iPhone without a phone," allows users to make video calls over Wi-Fi with cameras on front and back.

"It's the biggest change for iPod ever," Jobs said. "We've put our most advanced technology inside the new iPod Touch."

The new iPod Nano, at 1,248 yuan for the 8GB version, allows users to access songs with a tap or swipe of the fingers. Apple also announced a new iPod Shuffle costing 398 yuan.

Other new offerings included Ping, a music-oriented online social network service built into iTunes 10. It allows users to post and follow favorite artists and friends to discover what music they're interested in.

It's "Twitter and Facebook meets iTunes," Jobs said.