How many times can you reinvent the wheel, or, in this case, the iPod?
First introduced in October 2001, Apple has completely created and has the largest market share in mobile electronic listening devices worldwide.
Since the iPod’s debut, Apple has sold nearly 260 million units globally and plans to continue their sales with the latest recreation of their iPod line of products.
Introduced on Sept. 1 at the annual Apple Music Event, Steve Jobs (Apple CEO) brought about changes to the entire line, including a remodeled iPod shuffle, iPod nano, and iPod touch.
The Shuffle ringing in at $49 dollars is a 2GB device that lacks a screen, but is perfect for those looking for a small device to work out with or aren’t looking for all the complicated functions of the other “i”-devices.
Ashley Bernstein, a freshman, says, “I like how small it is, but I want to see it in person before I spend the money on it.”
The new iPod nano features a multi-touch display lacking any buttons much like the ever popular iPod touch.
Available in an 8GB ($149) and 16GB ($179) model and in seven different color options, including an exclusive Product Red color, this model will serve as the “go-to” iPod for the basic music listener.
For individuals who want not only a music listening device, but also an eReader, mobile game center and the functionality of an App.
Store that has over 200 thousand apps., the next generation Apple iPod touch is the model for you.
With a gorgeous 3.5” screen, the iPod touch is not only ideal for music, but also for watching movies and TV shows, as well as playing the thousands of games available from Apple’s App. Store.
Facetime, Apple’s video chat client, was also brought to the iPod touch so webcamming with another iPod touch or iPhone is now possible.
Available in three models, 8GB ($229), 32GB ($299) and 64GB ($399), the iPod touch will surely be the holiday gift of the season.
UT students were asked about the new iPod line and gave mixed feedback.
Bradley Wank, a freshman, said, “I don’t really know enough about it, but the iPod nano is really freakin’ sweet.”
Martin Conroy, a sophomore, said, “I don’t see a reason to buy a new iTouch, I already have one.”
As per usual for Apple press events, Steve Jobs has one more thing to say.
At the Sept. 1 event it was on the recreation of the Apple TV: a small device used to get iTunes content to your HGTV and a way to purchase movies and TV shows immediately for pennies on the dollar compared to actually owning the CD or DVD.
Available instantly to your TV, the Apple TV is only $99 and will be available towards the end of September.
iOS 4.1 for iPods, iPhones, and the iPad will be available this week with iOS 4.2 becoming available in November to power your ‘i’ device to the next level.
Todd Sandborn can be reached at toddalan@me.com.
They didn’t reinvent anything… they simply took the amazing nano which had way more features, and cut it in half. Now the top is the nano and bottom is the shuffle. Another way apple can sell worse products at a higher prices to “artistic college kids”.
Think Different.