Apple Computer is experimenting with aluminum anodized enclosures similar to those used in the company's iPod mini digital music players In an effort to reduce the iPod Nano's susceptibility to scratches reports Apple Insider

According to sources, the Cupertino, Calif.-based company is so far believed to have committed to the transition away from the nano's polycarbonate-coated shell and towards aluminum enclosures. The new enclosures are expected to debut in color variations similar to those used with the iPod mini, these sources added.

Aside from the enclosure change, the new nanos are expected to sport relatively the same form factor as the existing iPod nano -- about three inches tall and a fourth of an inch thin.