Apple Patent for Touch Screen iPod?

Sources: CNet News & Hrmpf.com
Apple Computer has filed Patent Application #20060197750 for an iPod-like device that has a around the display and can touch-sensitive bezeltoggle between different operating states. However, there seems a scepticism on the web about designs becoming reality due to the problems of screen smudging and scratching.
The user interface seems particularly well conceived and relies on on-screen indicators of the control surface’s function. In addition to buttons the surfaces can act as scroll surfaces. The interface works by the user selecting a control to change and then, using the bottom surface to scroll, adjusting the element in real time.

Will this be the next generation iPod? Only Apple knows for sure...
Patent sketch from Hrmpf.com