Cheap Shuffle

Introduction

The Shuffle is currently the smallest iPod model. When the second generation model was launched Apple claimed the Shuffle was the smallest mp3 player in existence. Whether this is still the case is debatable. As well as being the smallest iPod it's always being the cheapest. The first generation model was first sold for 99 dollars in 2005, with the expanded memory version costing 149 dollars. By 2006 Apple lowered the price to 69 and 99 dollars respectively.

The second generation Shuffle was launched at the end of 2006, with a lone 1GB model costing a total of 79 dollars. By the end of 2008 this price had been slashed to 49 dollars, plus the introduction of a 2GB model costing 69 dollars, which is less than the 1GB models initial cost. To date only two generations of Shuffle have been launched, the only recent developments for this model is a selection of five new colours.

Analysts have always bemoaned the lack of respect given the Shuffle by the general public and Apple. Whilst it may not have the features of a more expensive iPod, the size of the 2G model is truly remarkable. The sound quality of the Shuffle is also impressively clear, and compares favourable to all the other iPods. With a 1GB Shuffle costing in the region of £30, it's a cheap entry point into the world of iPods.

News

E.U.’s "New Batteries Directive" could effect iPods

The EU is currently discussing new legislation which will demand that all electronic devices have batteries which are easily removable. It's long been a contentious fact that it's very hard, if not impossible to remove or repair the batteries in iPods. This was not always the case, the iPod Mini for example had easily removable batteries.

Apple do state the batteries in all their iPods and the iPhone are removable. The problem is that professional tools are needed to achieve this, which makes it all but impossible for home consumers to remove them. This will contravene the E.U.'s prospective directive, and will certainly create a headache for Apple, who would need to evaluate the design of their iPods.

The Shuffle and iPods already dead?

After a off-hand comment by Apple's co-founder, it's got the Internet abuzz with talk of the iPods demise. For the record S. Wozniak claimed the iPod will go the way of the transistor radio, replaced by more advanced and exciting products.

While on the face of it this appears a pretty obvious fact, the question is how long does the iPod have? Many analysts believe it's alot less time than most people assume. With Apple making only minor tweaks and form factor changes to their iPod range at the end of 2008. Are Apple already putting most of their efforts into developing other products?

The iPhone and Touch appear to indicate so, devices which offer a multitude of services, rather than a single purpose product like the Shuffle. However, due to the small form factor of the Shuffle, it's hard to believe technology will advance enough to offer iPhone like features in such a small device in the next 2-4 years.