Okay, so we're a little confused, here; as first pointed out by faithful viewer mrmgraphics, the hPod is officially available for preorder, and it's different from Apple's how, exactly? Because our sources were right about Hewlett-Packard having bailed on its original plan to offer its rebranded iPods in a delicate shade of blue that falls somewhere between "Cornflower" and "Drowning Victim, Day 3"-- they're white and silver, just like Apple's. They come in 20 GB and 40 GB models, just like Apple's. They cost $299 and $399, just like Apple's. In fact, we're very hard pressed to find out just what the "+ hp" is in the "Apple iPod + hp." The box, perhaps?

Well, let's dig a little, here: HP's downloadable media fact sheet states that "by combining Apple's popular design with HP's consumer reach and comprehensive technical support, the result is a winning digital music solution for the masses." In other words, all HP is bringing to the party is better tech support and distribution channels? Mmmm. Compelling.

Actually, though, the wider distribution is pretty cool. According to MacCentral, hPods will be sold in several stores whose shelves are still virgin unPodded territory. For example, soon you'll be able to get an iPod at Staples, who's already showing a "Coming Soon!" ad on its home page. They'll also be at Office Depot, which, for some reason, apparently only currently sells the minis. Costco already has 'em available for ordering online-- at a hefty 0% discount. (Bad Costco! No biscuit!) And let's not forget the ultimate nerd retailer, Radio Shack, which currently only carries a selection of flash-based players and a MiniDisc doohickey. Of course, we haven't a clue as to what will happen in all the stores on HP's list that already sell Apple iPods + Apple; since the HP models are apparently nearly identical, it seems odd that Amazon, CompUSA, Best Buy, etc. would stock both, but hey, whatever lets their freak flag fly.

As for better support, we should probably clarify that. What HP actually offers is a wider variety of support options. With Apple you get a one-year warranty and a single incident of free phone support, upgradable to two years including phone support if you buy the AppleCare Protection Plan for iPod. HP, on the other hand, has a slew of support plan choices, including selections with 24-7 phone support and one-hour response time-- just in case your iPod plays a mission-critical role in your unflagging, 'round-the-clock one-man-war against crime. We'd sure hate for, say, the Riddler to get away one night just because you couldn't call Apple's support line at 3 AM to ask them what the "Sound Check" option does.

And let's not forget HP's one real innovation on the iPod front-- and back, sides, top, and bottom. Yes, it's HP Tattoos; you can't get your hPod engraved when you order it, but you sure can wrap it up in a removable die-cut plastic poncho-sticker featuring design themes of artists such as Gwen Stefani, Sting, and the Cure. Better yet, HP plans to sell blank HP Tattoos so you can print your own. Since the hPod is just a 4G iPod, even if you've got Apple's version you'll soon be able to wrap it up in your own custom-printed protective sleeves. How much ya wanna bet that at least 30% of self-printed iPod tattoos will be pornographic in nature? Any takers?

Okay, so those are the differences: more stores, more support choices, and the option to cover one's iPod in pictures of nekkid ladies (but Apple customers will get to do that, too). Oh, and there's a little teensy HP logo on the back of each unit, under the Apple logo. And we just noticed this: "HP has also designed the packaging for the Apple iPod from HP to easily communicate product features to users." Hey, we were right about the box!