Sony has announced it will release the X-Series MP3 players in April, intended to rival the Apple iTouch.

The X-Series will be the first line of MP3 players from Sony to feature a three-inch LCD touchscreen. YOu use the touchscreen to perform most operations - although buttons are included for volume, noise cancelling and there is also a hold switch.

The X-Series players also come with WI-Fi and a web browser, as well as streaming for YouTube. Each player ships with EX Monitor headphones.

This series of players is very slick to look at - complete with black and chrome finishes and glass surfaces. Size comes in at slightly smaller than the iPod Touch.

Two players will be released in the X-Series in April, with either a 16GB or 32GB capacity. Pricing will be available closer to the release date.

Click here to find offers on Sony MP3 players from retailers near you.

By Caroline Warnes