Apple has announced a red version of its iPod nano to help raise funds for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Africa. 

The iPod nano RED Special Edition is a 4GB model available worldwide at $199. It can hold 1,000 songs and has a claimed 24-hour battery life.

Apple will donate $10 for each unit sold to the Global Fund's Project Red, an initiative to launch red versions of major consumer brands to support fund raising. 

Project Red has already released red Motorola handsets, Gap T-shirts, Converse trainers and Emporio Armani watches.

Project Red was set up by U2 singer Bono and Bobby Shriver, a member of the Kennedy political dynasty in the US.

"Customers can now buy the best music player in the world and do something to help the world at the same time," said Apple chief executive Steve Jobs.

Apple will also make available a $25 iTunes RED gift card through its retail outlets and online stores.