The next-generation iPod, rumored to be due early next year, may add another feature to the photo-, video-, and music-toting little device: 3D gaming. Graphics-chip manufacturer Nvidia has reportedly signed on to make 3D technology for the upcoming "true video" iPod, hinting that Apple has decided to take on the portable gaming market. Apple has long steered clear of the gaming world, as any gamer with a Mac can tell you, so this marks a significant shift for them. It may have something to do with the rumored gaming capabilities of the said-to-be upcoming Microsoft Zune, which will purportedly connect somehow to the Xbox 360. The Zune is seen by many as potentially the first serious threat to Apple's market dominance with the iPod, so adding gaming features may be a response to Microsoft's plans. This is all speculation and rumor at this point, so we will be sure to keep you updated as soon as we get more concrete info about both the next-gen iPod and the Zune. — Adam Frucci