Sony to release flash-based Walkmans (UPDATE)

As reports USAToday, Sony is planning to release a new line of 9 flash-based digital audio players this year.

The new players' pricing will range from $90 to $180, will include a 3 lines display and will offer from 50 to 70 hours of battery life on a rechargeable battery or AAA type battery, depending on the models. There is also an option to add FM receiver for a $20 extra in some models.

Sony clearly takes on the iPod shuffle with this new line of products. Its products' main advantages over the iPod are the display and the battery life, but on a price/storage comparison, Sony's Walkmans are a bit more expensive.

UPDATE: Apple's shares closed significally lower today, losing 5.19% of their value, because of Sony's announcements. Apple's stock value is now $40.53, down from $42.75 but is up 0.20% in after-hours, trading at $40.61.