A few pictures of Apple's touch sensitive patent application began springing up on various blogs recently with fairly self explanatory pictures of Apple's plans for the next iPod Video.  The patent, for "Mode-based graphical user interfaces for touch sensitive input devices," was filed three weeks ago states the following:

The invention pertains to gestures and methods of implementing gestures with touch sensitive devices. Examples of touch sensitive devices include touch screens and touch pads. The invention also pertains to user interfaces and methods of implementing user interfaces with displays.

When Apple's previous iPod Video hit store shelves with a tiny 2.5" screen sporting a 320x240 pixel resolution, Apple proponents and opponents alike criticized the company for not ditching the passé "wheel" and opting for a larger screen instead.  The touch display described in the patent seems to give the best of both worlds.  

The patent goes on to describe gesture-like qualities to the input device, claiming the wheel motions are not limited to a designated area on the screen, but can be free formed depending on the application.

Now if only Apple would give in to the rest of my demands and put WiFi on one of these things.