Sony is preparing to launch a redesigned set of Network Walkman E-series digital music players, this time sporting a range of coloured cases and an integrated USB connector a la iPod Shuffle, a number of websites have claimed.

Little is known about the machines beyond their looks, capacity - 512MB, 1GB and 2GB of Flash storage - and lack of an FM tuner, a feature present on the current E-series line-up. According to Swedish-language site MKF.se, the players will be priced at up to SEK1,1400 ($181/£104/€150), and offer up to 28 hours' playback time.

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The players sport a single-line OLED screen that glows through the casing in the now established Network Walkman fashion. They will ship in five colours: green, red, blue, purple and black. ®

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