With iTunes for Windows apparently just round the corner the possibility of AAC encoded files is possible for Windows users (without all the hassle that has previously been posted to create AAC).

So, stupid/obvious question: presumably the same iPOD will be able to play both formats, after each other, without any user switching required? ie. if i make an on the go playlist comprised of tracks in both formats the iPod will just play thro' as though they are no different, right?

Like most Windows users my iPod is filled to the gills with mp3s, and early double-blind tests seem to be suggesting (obviously dependent on bit-rates etc.) that differences are minimal with AAC encoded tracks, thus most of my collection will probably remain unchanged but with occasional ripping of new CDs in AAC and bought AAC tracks off the iTunes web-site. With this in mind the file formats aren't going to cause play-back (or tagging) conflicts?