The Official iPod shuffle thread [Archive]

MaddogTL

01-11-2005, 04:55 PM

This is going to be an instant hit!!!! Why you may ask?

Well first off when the ipod came out Apple did not aim for the low end but went striaght for the top of the hard drive mp3 players,when the mini came out they did the samething again. Now with the flash player they are coming out with a player that has more memory and cheaper than anything else out there.

So what if there is no display? Most of the other players have tiny screens that eat battery power and there are other players with no screens and they are selling decent,look at the Muvo line or Jensen. Also most other 512 meg players are $150 to $200 and the $99 market is mostly 64 meg to 128 meg players.

Apple has made a move that should cement there strangle hold on the mp3 market with the ipod shuffle.

Also it does support wav and apple lossless.

FallN

01-11-2005, 05:07 PM

I'm actually shocked myself at the price-point. At $99 they are definitely going to attract bargain minded consumers who were otherwise priced out of the iPod market and had turned to Flash based MP3 players with 128-256 MB... but this will definitly bite into the low-end market screen or no screen at that unbelievable price!

Now had Apple gone with the $200+ initial estimated price: that would have been near suicide, but at $99 and $149 repectively, even without a screen, Apple has a major low-end contender on it's hands.

I might even pick up one in the future at that price because I jog and exercise 6 days a week... having a moving HDD on my arm or my belt isn't exactly the best of me or for it. LOL! I'd only use the iPod Shuffle for exercise... any other time I want or need music, I'd use my normal iPod... so I view it as an "iPod Companion" more than a real iPod in and of itself. ;)

I'm going to take a "wait and see" approach...

Edvard_Grieg

01-11-2005, 05:14 PM

Originally posted by MaddogTL
This is going to be an instant hit!!!! Why you may ask?

Well first off when the ipod came out Apple did not aim for the low end but went striaght for the top of the hard drive mp3 players,when the mini came out they did the samething again. Now with the flash player they are coming out with a player that has more memory and cheaper than anything else out there.

So what if there is no display? Most of the other players have tiny screens that eat battery power and there are other players with no screens and they are selling decent,look at the Muvo line or Jensen. Also most other 512 meg players are $150 to $200 and the $99 market is mostly 64 meg to 128 meg players.

Apple has made a move that should cement there strangle hold on the mp3 market with the ipod shuffle.

Also it does support wav and apple lossless.

Even with the screens eating up battery power, most of the other mainstream flash players get well over 12 hours battery life, and many are into the 20+ hour range (Forge).

I'm not saying this thing won't sell, I'm sure it will just on the principle of more people being able to say "I own an iPod" but there are many much better options out there.

mullenmouse

01-11-2005, 05:16 PM

It's ??69 for the 512MB and probably about ??99 for the 1GB. I can't believe how small they are. If I didn't already have my 20GB I'd be tempted but it's so small I'd probably stand on it or something.

smirf83

01-11-2005, 05:22 PM

well i'm tempted by the price, but I'd never use it as I don't exercise, so it'd just be a waste of money. :)

CanaMacPod

01-11-2005, 05:40 PM

Well what can I say? I'm disappointed and intrigued at the same time. So many people predicted a screenless iPod but the pictures they showed looked nothing like this.
I actually think this thing looks cool, it's certainly unique compared to other flash based mp3 players. But the battery life does not sound promising - only 12 hours? - especially since there's no screen to eat up all the power. How does this iPod get less battery life than the color LCD iPod photo?
I won't be buying one of these anytime soon, but I hope Apple can turn it into a hit.

MaddogTL

01-11-2005, 05:52 PM

Originally posted by Edvard_Grieg
Even with the screens eating up battery power, most of the other mainstream flash players get well over 12 hours battery life, and many are into the 20+ hour range (Forge).

I'm not saying this thing won't sell, I'm sure it will just on the principle of more people being able to say "I own an iPod" but there are many much better options out there.

There are? Ok lets look,any flash players out there that offer 512 megs for $99? Any flash players with 1 gig for $149 out there? If you say yes please tell me what they are cause the ones I know that are 512 or 1 gig are $200 or higher.

The main thing is that apple has a possibley good flash player that has more memory and is cheaper than anything with the same amount of memory on the market right now. Apple will force everyone else in the flash player market to eiether lower there prices or just let apple own all of the mp3 market,they have the high end hard drive market with the ipod,they have the low end hard drive market with the mini ipod and now the ipod shuffle is/will take over the flash player market.

smirf83

01-11-2005, 05:55 PM

Yes but now iPods are losing their exclusivity (lol is that a word.) What I mean is that next time peopel upgrade, they may choose another DAP just so that they won't have an iPod, as now EVERYONE will have one due to the seriously low price. I just feel sorry for all those parents who just shelled out for a mini for their kids who have no music, and now this turns up. Isn't life great. :p

dalhectar

01-11-2005, 05:59 PM

I just hope there will be more carrying accessories to come out for it soon. Personally I would like an armband that offered some protection against the elements, so a jog in the rain would be fine. I'm not sure about the one at the apple store now...

smirf83

01-11-2005, 06:09 PM

there's an armband, sports cover thingy, weird looking dock, USB power adapter as opposed to the Firewire one included with all other ipods (The USB one will work with all current series iPods ie all 4Gs and mini and shuffle.)

krazynate

01-11-2005, 06:12 PM

Okay dudes. Here is my humble opinion.

The ipod is a great gadget. Cool, slick design with a pretty impressive capacity and is accompanied by the best music playing software around- itunes.

I never really liked the mini. I mean come on man, its only 4 gigs and for 50 bucks more you can get a monsterous 20 gigabytes. I was never impressed by the mini, to me it has always been a stepchild.

Now here comes the ipod shuffle. I was skeptical at first but after some thinking, this is a totally awesome idea. For the longest time people have complained that ipod was too expensive.. bla bla bla. Now here is a good flash based player. It may have some flaws, but everything does. The price is very resonable too.

For existing ipod users this is the perfect companion. If the huge hard drives are too much for an occasion, here is the perfect solution- a playlist in your pocket.

I am having a hard time resisting ordering one right now.

studogvetmed

01-11-2005, 06:12 PM

Originally posted by smirf83
UK?

2) Doesn't support WAV or Apple Lossless (not surprising)

No apple lossless but this copy from the specs page does say it supports WAV. No AIFF, though.

From: http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/specs.html
MP3 (8 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, AAC (8 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Music Store, M4A, M4B, M4P), Audible (formats 2, 3, and 4) and WAV

Cheers,
Stu

plazman30

01-11-2005, 06:14 PM

Well, I have just been all over the tech specs for this things, and I can't get an answer telling whether this thing is a USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 device. It says that it's USB 1.1 and 2.0 compatible, but that is meaningless, since the two protocols are backwards and forwards compatible. I would just like to know what my sync speeds are going to be.

However, it is REALLY cool that this thing can act as a flash drive, as well as an MP3 player. Heck, it costs over $100 to get a 1 GB pen drive. If I can get an iPod Shuffle for about $50 more and get a Pen Drive AND MP3 player, it's well worth the money spent.

Andy

Bobboes

01-11-2005, 06:42 PM

Check this out, i went to apple.com/apple, and what do i see, A NEW IPOD! It is called the iPod shuffle!

Here is what it says on the website

Time to mix things up. Meet iPod shuffle, the unpredictable new iPod. What will it play next? Can it read your mind? Can it read your moods? Load it up. Put it on. See where it takes you. Choose from pocket-size 512MB or 1G models starting at $99 and surprise yourself.

Random is the New Order

Welcome to a life less orderly. As official soundtrack to the random revolution, the iPod Shuffle Songs setting takes you on a unique journey through your music collection ??? you never know what???s around the next tune. Meet your new ride. More roadster than Rolls, iPod shuffle rejects routine by serving up your favorite songs in a different order every time. Just plug iPod shuffle into your computer???s USB port, let iTunes Autofill it with up to 240 songs(1) and get a new experience with every connection. The trail you run every day looks different with an iPod shuffle. Daily gridlock feels less mundane when you don???t know what song will play next. iPod shuffle adds musical spontaneity to your life. Lose control. Love it.

I personally dont like it or think about buying one but i thought i would share it with you, ok so go to http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/ for all the info

EDIT: I didnt see the existing thread on this, sorry!

Matrixsjd

01-11-2005, 06:46 PM

Originally posted by plazman30
Well, I have just been all over the tech specs for this things, and I can't get an answer telling whether this thing is a USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 device. It says that it's USB 1.1 and 2.0 compatible, but that is meaningless, since the two protocols are backwards and forwards compatible. I would just like to know what my sync speeds are going to be.

I'm pretty sure that it is USB 2, so you're prolly gonna get the same speed as you would with the regular ipod over USB 2, but with only 1 gig of storage I wouldn't worry about it since either way it won't take that long to transfer only a gig of music.

dordale

01-11-2005, 06:52 PM

The new iPod is interesting, but personally, I think that the Creative Lab Muvo TX's and N200 lines beat it. I purchased a Creative Lab 512m TX FM at Fry's for $99 (on sale from $119) for a Christmas present. It's tiny, can be used as a usb flash drive, runs for 15 hours on one AAA battery, has an incorporated FM radio, and best of all it has a display. If I were purchasing a flash drive mp3 player for myself, I would definitely go with the Muvo over the iPod shuffle.

dordale :)

iMacc

01-11-2005, 06:53 PM

1gb shuffle ordered from apple. ??99.Dispatched in 2 weeks.

Thankyou very much.

SlowBye

01-11-2005, 06:54 PM

Yes, most of us already know about the ipod shuffle and there have been numerous threads about it. Try to keep all comments in "the official ipod Shuffle thread". This will keep the boards as clean as possible from topics that aren't needed.

For not seeing the other thread, its a learning experience. Just try looking a little harder even if it requires more effort, you'll probably benefit.

MarkHaldane

01-11-2005, 06:58 PM

I really don't see the appeal here, other than the price.

12 hour battery life?! What a load of crap.

No screen? Some lame-o design with a couple of clicky buttons?

evilgoat23

01-11-2005, 07:08 PM

I just ordered one!

youm0nt

01-11-2005, 07:09 PM

Originally posted by ScottAPerk
Notice the disclaimer at the bottom of the page... "Do Not Eat iPod Shuffle"
haha,noitced that too. :cool:

youm0nt

01-11-2005, 07:09 PM

Originally posted by ScottAPerk
Notice the disclaimer at the bottom of the page... "Do Not Eat iPod Shuffle"
haha,noitced that too. :cool:

evilgoat23

01-11-2005, 07:37 PM

I needed something for working out and this is perfect! I don't need a screen so that's a moot point. The thing that gets me is the price for the armband, $40cnd?!?!

XxPumaxX

01-11-2005, 07:49 PM

Hahahaha!
Is this a joke?? :o
This is SO bad!!!
Creative flash players own this in every single way!!!

gregrobson

01-11-2005, 07:52 PM

After being converted to iTunes (and the store) I have a portable player to match.

Like many people are asking - why did I get one?

1) Creative Muvo 1GB is at least ??120. Apple is 25% cheaper. Not often you can say that.
2) It will work with the music I buy from the iTunes store.
3) It will be ideal for jogging (iPod mini is too expensive to put in a risky environment).
4) It's ideal if I'm on the move (I don't want to stand at a station trying to find music I like). iTunes lets me get on with playing music (against the overkill customisations of Winamp), and the iShuffle will allow me to focus on listening and not fiddling.
5) It's very small. You can operate it without looking at it - which means there's less change of being mugged (especially if you get different headphones)

Despite the lacking of functionality in comparison to others I think it's about what you want - iTunes let's me focus on my music and not on installing skins, plugins and the like.

2 weeks until it arrives **big grin**

ham_man

01-11-2005, 07:57 PM

I for one think that they should have upgraded the mini, as the flash market has some very successful mainstays. But it will sell because it is a fashion statement, or will be shortly...

-Andrew

jdpath

01-11-2005, 08:02 PM

Anyone have any idea as to who the flash card is produced by and what chipset and firmware is in the guts of the new Iopd? Is it the same (PortalPlayer) chipset or some new provider??? Would like to know what's on the inside and how it compares to HDD??? Any creditable help???

KnuckleSandwich

01-11-2005, 08:04 PM

It's almost as if Apple was reading my thoughts...

I replaced my old Minidisc player with a 3G Ipod about a year ago. I've always been a runner but in the past year or two I've been burned out and been more into shorter runs and biking.

Then after Thanksgiving, I started running again in earnest and have been realizing the drawback to a HD player on the run.

This past week or two I started reseraching flash players in the $100 range, going so far as to try one of those Nike Philips POS, which was promptly returned.

The newest Ipod will take care of my needs without needing to fidget with M4P to MP3 conversion yadda yadda yadda.

I know I'm playing right into Apple's hands by buying one but I think it'll fit my needs nicely.

-James

01-11-2005, 08:33 PM

I'm ordering one tomorrow! Was expecting this to be a major disappointment, but realised it was just what i needed!

XxPumaxX

01-11-2005, 08:36 PM

NO screen ahahahaha.

Toxikated

01-11-2005, 08:47 PM

What a lame product. It really has nothing special to offer.

Size: Comparable to most other high end flash players.

Controls: It doesn't have any of the iPod's attractive control wheels.

Screen: There is none of course

Battery: It's rechargable if I'm not mistaken? And the life is 12 hours. I'll give an example here. I have both an iPod and a little 128mb flash player. The only real advantage my little flash player has is the batteries can be replaced, so if I cannot recharge my iPod, I can keep throwing new batteries into the flash player. Not only that but 1 AAA lasts 15 hours. So yeah, there are advantages for rechargable, but I think they would've been better off going with a AAA battery.

The damn thing isn't even an iPod, its just some crap flash player stripped to the bare minimum and called an iPod.

Ink Noise

01-11-2005, 08:49 PM

Buying one.
So, so buying one.

and maybe a Mac mini. Blasted Apple!

Bobboes

01-11-2005, 08:49 PM

there is no way i am buying one of these, i have way too much music for it and no use for one of them

jedk

01-11-2005, 08:59 PM

I really don't like the iPod shuffle. I prefer the Click wheel and design interface of the regular iPod and mini -- I guess since I have no need for a flash based player I just don't really like 'em, I s'pose. I dunno, I think the shuffle will sell well, I just don't see any reason why I'd by one.

DilbertLand

01-11-2005, 09:03 PM

No screen? How are you supposed to monitor battery status? After my experience with the IPod Mini, forgive me if I don't trust Apple's battery life claims.
I think this will be a good test of Apple customer loyality. If this was sold by any other company I don't see how it would be anything other than a flop.

Aceon6

01-11-2005, 09:03 PM

Count me in... This seems to be a perfect "welcome to iTunes" product and I'll be getting a few to give as gifts. They've got me on the Mac mini, too. I'll get one for my mother, see how it goes, than likely get one for home. Damn Apple squared!

Toxikated

01-11-2005, 09:15 PM

Originally posted by DilbertLand
No screen? How are you supposed to monitor battery status? After my experience with the IPod Mini, forgive me if I don't trust Apple's battery life claims.
I think this will be a good test of Apple customer loyality. If this was sold by any other company I don't see how it would be anything other than a flop.

The battery indicators are hardly accurate anyway

stinkiedmb

01-11-2005, 09:26 PM

so just two things that i would like to mention:

charging via USB on a PC.... it doesn't always work. not all USB ports are powered. therefore, the optional USB AC Adapter must be purchased.

and, the whole flash drive cap issue. i really thought apple could devise a practical and stylish solution to the flash drive USB cap issue

(the issue being that once a USB cap is removed, it is very easily lost)

bingbongbang

01-11-2005, 09:36 PM

its crap no screen and there many much better ones out there.

apple did the wrong thing with no screen.

MysticSyphon

01-11-2005, 09:41 PM

No screen is a huge letdown -- coupled with the 12-hr battery life (which makes absolutely no sense) -- I doubt that this will take off like the mini did. Personally, I like knowing exactly what song I'm listening to, and, more importantly, how long the song is and how much longer 'till it ends. Even if I was looking to buy a flash player, I sure as heck would look elsewhere at this point, unless, however, Apple pulls a trick out of its hat and releases a remote with an LCD display.

DilbertLand

01-11-2005, 09:42 PM

Originally posted by Toxikated
The battery indicators are hardly accurate anyway
True, but it always occurs to me on my way out the door that I should grab the player. On my mini it's at least nice to look at the indicator on the way down the stairs to check if it's close to a full charge or see that I need to be conservative with the usage. Also, I sometimes end up using it more than I realise and the indicator reminds me. I'd have a dead player a lot more often if not for the indicator. A dead battery isn't a big deal when you can plunk in another AAA. With a rechargable, it's a little more effort. However just my thoughts....I guess I'm not the target market.

MysticSyphon

01-11-2005, 09:48 PM

Agreed, DilbertLand.

threeball

01-11-2005, 09:50 PM

Originally posted by MaddogTL
There are? Ok lets look,any flash players out there that offer 512 megs for $99? Any flash players with 1 gig for $149 out there? If you say yes please tell me what they are cause the ones I know that are 512 or 1 gig are $200 or higher.

The main thing is that apple has a possibley good flash player that has more memory and is cheaper than anything with the same amount of memory on the market right now. Apple will force everyone else in the flash player market to eiether lower there prices or just let apple own all of the mp3 market,they have the high end hard drive market with the ipod,they have the low end hard drive market with the mini ipod and now the ipod shuffle is/will take over the flash player market.

The reason the price is so low is bceause it lacks a screen. I'm sure that if this shuffle player had a screen, it would be priced higher than that of other 512MB/1G players out there with screens, and vice-versa. I'm sure most of the flash player consumer market would prefer a screen instead of conforming to pay for a brand name with just a shuffle option and no battery indicator.

GrapeApe

01-11-2005, 09:55 PM

I have been in the market for a 512Mb-1Gb USB flash memory drive for a while now, I had been using my iPod to transfer files but I am wary of bringing it around everywhere for fear of losing it and I am also concerned that the one time I will need my data my iPod battery will die on me.

My question is will the flash memory on the iPod Shuffle still be readable when the battery is dead?

If it is I believe I will be picking one up instead of a flash drive as it will also give me something to use while exercising.

solentgrn

01-11-2005, 10:08 PM

Does this thing come with a cardboard applicator?

Seriously, the must have been sitting around one day going "We have a near perfect iPod, now how can we make it suck?"

I loath the tamPod.

djte

01-11-2005, 10:36 PM

here's my question about the lack of a screen: what makes the iPod stand out amongst other DAP players is the intuitive and simple user interface. this is nonexistent in the iPod shuffle. granted the price and form factor are great, but if a similar one is offered with a screen for slightly more, i think many people might go for the other player. i know when i first started looking at digital music players (and before i could afford an iPod, and was thus considering a flash player) i was turned off by the ones that lacked a screen.

however, it was a smart marketing move on Apple's behalf to market it as a "shuffle" player, as if to say "who needs a screen when you can shuffle?" i think it will sell well for awhile because it is new and cheap, but i wonder about long-term viability in the market

canyonblue737

01-11-2005, 11:04 PM

Originally posted by plazman30
Well, I have just been all over the tech specs for this things, and I can't get an answer telling whether this thing is a USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 device. It says that it's USB 1.1 and 2.0 compatible, but that is meaningless, since the two protocols are backwards and forwards compatible. I would just like to know what my sync speeds are going to be.
Andy

Steve Jobs at the keynote stated, "and you transfer songs over USB and if you have USB 2.0 it of course will be much faster!"

so yes, it supports full USB 2.0 specs and will benefit from the speed increase.

canyonblue737

01-11-2005, 11:07 PM

Originally posted by dordale
The new iPod is interesting, but personally, I think that the Creative Lab Muvo TX's and N200 lines beat it. I purchased a Creative Lab 512m TX FM at Fry's for $99 (on sale from $119) for a Christmas present. It's tiny, can be used as a usb flash drive, runs for 15 hours on one AAA battery, has an incorporated FM radio, and best of all it has a display. If I were purchasing a flash drive mp3 player for myself, I would definitely go with the Muvo over the iPod shuffle.

dordale :)

but what about us iPod mini/3G/4G users who have invested in iTunes music store music? then the shuffle looks pretty darn nice if you want a small MP3 player for the gym... plus it looks better.

dcmacnut

01-11-2005, 11:09 PM

The iPod shuffle also has something that no other iPod on the market has -- an Off switch :)

canyonblue737

01-11-2005, 11:10 PM

Originally posted by MysticSyphon
No screen is a huge letdown -- coupled with the 12-hr battery life (which makes absolutely no sense) -- I doubt that this will take off like the mini did. Personally, I like knowing exactly what song I'm listening to, and, more importantly, how long the song is and how much longer 'till it ends. Even if I was looking to buy a flash player, I sure as heck would look elsewhere at this point, unless, however, Apple pulls a trick out of its hat and releases a remote with an LCD display.

all other flash based players with higher batter life use AAA batteries, not rechargable bats. by using a rechargable battery with the iPod shuffle Apple does two things, 1) keeps the device smaller and lighter and 2) saves the user the cost of batteries over the lifetime of the product... and in the end the 12 hour battery life is very acceptable.

canyonblue737

01-11-2005, 11:15 PM

Originally posted by dcmacnut
The iPod shuffle also has something that no other iPod on the market has -- an Off switch :)

but it lacks something ever other iPod has (besides a screen!) the hold switch! on the shuffle to activate the hold feature you press and hold the play/pause button for 5 seconds and a orange LED flashes. then to unlock you hold it again for 5 seconds until the LED turns green.

thabenksta

01-12-2005, 12:01 AM

Looks like the shuffle wasn't the only cool thing at the show. Lindrone went with a camera in hand.

Extensive MacWorld 2005 Gallery (http://ipodstudio.com/photopost/showgallery.php?cat=544)

wolfpacker

01-12-2005, 01:02 AM

I, for one, like it. I recently upgraded from the 1st gen 5GB iPod to a new 4th gen 40 giger. I LOVE my iPod, but the bulk and HDD are a concern when excercising. This thing will fit the bill nicely for the gym, bike rides, and hikes. The 40 GB iPod will still be my workhorse for the car, the office and plane travel. Looks like a good value. Keeping the cost low and the weight ultra low are way more important than a screen or battery life, IMO. I'm GLAD it doesn't require me to buy AA or AAAs for it.

My only problem is trying to decide if the 1GB version is worth the extra 50 bucks. Considering most of my stuff is 192Kbps, probably so. Want to make sure it can give me a solid days worth of music.

bzavala

01-12-2005, 01:40 AM

wow... just today at the gym I was wondering if I should start bringing my iPod while I workout.... and then I find about the iPod shuffle :D

i may consider buying one of these just for the gym :D

Also the Apple Mini looks good... will they make an Apple Shuffle in the future? :D

canyonblue737

01-12-2005, 02:07 AM

Originally posted by bzavala
i may consider buying one of these just for the gym :D

exactly what i did. when the iPod mini came out i *almost* got one for the gym but realized 1) i wanted a white iPod 2) the mini was still too LARGE and 3) the mini still would skip after a long time running and 4) it was too close to my 3G to justify getting another iPod.

soooo... now at $99 (since this is a "second" iPod for gym/excersize/short term use, i don't need over 120 songs) i have the ultimate tool and exactly what i needed.

baggss

01-12-2005, 02:39 AM

What an insightful thread this is :rolleyes:

I actually like this thing, despite the lack of a screen. I'll probably get one and use it as a Flash drive for work AND an MP3 player. Could be kind of fun actually....

Casual

01-12-2005, 03:26 AM

I think it isn't a step down, I think it is a new device for the lower end market (well... thats exactly what it is.) no one seemed to care that the mini can't import photos/voice. Less money, less features.

one thing I think they could have worked on is the lanyard. I don't like the idea of running/jumping around with it (like in the ad) and having it fall off. I know it isn't that expected but after a long while of taking the cap on/off, it might get looser.

canyonblue737

01-12-2005, 03:29 AM

Originally posted by Casual
I think it isn't a step down, I think it is a new device for the lower end market (well... thats exactly what it is.) no one seemed to care that the mini can't import photos/voice. Less money, less features.

one thing I think they could have worked on is the lanyard. I don't like the idea of running/jumping around with it (like in the ad) and having it fall off. I know it isn't that expected but after a long while of taking the cap on/off, it might get looser.

while i would be worried if it was any other company but apple you HAVE to assume that Apple has carefully figured out a secure system for mounting the caps so that these $100-150 mp3 players don't get destroyed. i am sure they will hold up well, although the arm band will prevent the ipod from bouncing around and being distracting compared to the lanyard.

Casual

01-12-2005, 04:06 AM

Originally posted by canyonblue737
while i would be worried if it was any other company but apple you HAVE to assume that Apple has carefully figured out a secure system for mounting the caps so that these $100-150 mp3 players don't get destroyed. i am sure they will hold up well, although the arm band will prevent the ipod from bouncing around and being distracting compared to the lanyard.

Also the theft issue is with the cap. How easy would it be for a thug to run up to you grab your shuffle and run off? even if the ear buds were in ya.

baggss

01-12-2005, 04:22 AM

Originally posted by Casual
Also the theft issue is with the cap. How easy would it be for a thug to run up to you grab your shuffle and run off? even if the ear buds were in ya.

Maybe if you lived in a Grand Theft Auto game or something.....

Just as easy to steal a regular iPod off you.....

TheFly

01-12-2005, 04:57 AM

It's known that the shuffle will support the Audible format. But has it's support of audiobook bookmarks been brought up yet?

The Shuffle seems to be the perfect vehicle for Audible Audiobook and other audiobook content that's been altered for bookmarks.

Personally, my 3rd Gen 20GB iPod is full of books I'm not listening to. Dropping a few chapters of whatever I'm actively listening to onto a shuffle sounds like a great application.

DilbertLand

01-12-2005, 05:10 AM

I occasionally hit the wrong button on my mini while listening to audible books (while rewinding to hear something I miss), I don't know how you would ever find your place again on the shuffle without a display. I guess you could fast forward but it sure wouldn't be fun searching through a 6+ hour file - especailly when you can't see how fast it's jumping forward.

gregrobson

01-12-2005, 05:57 AM

Originally posted by Casual
Also the theft issue is with the cap. How easy would it be for a thug to run up to you grab your shuffle and run off? even if the ear buds were in ya.

Lighter iPod = Faster running

Faster running = Less chance of mugger catching me.

coolio

01-12-2005, 07:29 AM

Hopefully gonna pick one of these up at the london store at lunchtime, altho i can imagine its madness there right now. The other half wants to start running again so this is great, as does my brother. For 70 quid and headphones u can easily flog on fleabay for 18 quid, u cant go wrong.

smirf83

01-12-2005, 07:31 AM

Hmm maybe I should start exercising.... :)

coolio

01-12-2005, 07:33 AM

Originally posted by smirf83
Hmm maybe I should start exercising.... :)

Nah, just say u intend to and get one, for what is effect 50 quid u cant go wrong, flog the white earbuds and use the ones u use on your current pod.

smirf83

01-12-2005, 08:03 AM

But what's the point of getting one unless you want to listen to music in an environment where you can't listen to your ipod currently. The only case I can think of is when exercising. So it's just be a waste of money. :(

coolio

01-12-2005, 08:16 AM

50 quid aint that much, and its handy for say the bus, id rather someone steal that than any of my other ipods

archurban

01-12-2005, 08:53 AM

after criticizing it a lot by myself, I made a decision to test drive it. I just ordered 512MB, dock($29) tonight. well, I don't need 1GB cuz I have 4G 20GB ipod.

I have thought over it many times before buying it. hmm, no Screen? 512 MB holds only 120 songs. but when I am jogging, little outdoor activities wihthout concentrating on music, it will be good. battery life? 12 hours is enough because flash player is not a long runner like hard disk based ipod.

one of features I don't like is that you can't take flash memory out separately so that you can use another memory card.

I think that ipod shuffle is diiferent use type not likely regular ipod.

gregrobson

01-12-2005, 08:59 AM

Originally posted by archurban
I think that ipod shuffle is diiferent use type not likely regular ipod.

Exactly - I think some are missing the point, it's not meant to be a smaller version of the iPod mini - it's for those doing busy activities who want no skips and will most likely put their "jogging/cycling" playlist on it (all of the songs will probably be picked by hand for the activity - I'm guessing upbeat stuff for 99% of people).

When cycling/running the only button you may want is next track, which is easy to reach on your arm or if it's around your neck.

It's not for cars, or long train journeys - it's a short use device.

VarLordahl

01-12-2005, 02:31 PM

I think (with all do respect), that many of you are computer uber-nerds that don???t understand economics and/or exercise.

This device is not made for the tech super-savy. No iPod has ever fit this description. There are, and always have been, much more complex and function-heavy MP3 players.

Apple broke the market by introducing a reliable, attractive, MP3 player with a HDD, that had all the functions a standard or middle-level user needed, and was extremely easy to use. It carried a price premium, but the style, ease of use, and exclusivity earned it.

Fast forward to now. Ipods are selling like hot-cakes. The ???iPod??? name is now invaluable - an entity would have to pay hundreds of millions to buy the name from Apple.

However, it is losing it???s exclusivity since everyone has one. Further, Apple knows that not only can the iPod not be cool forever, but it probably will stop being quite as cool or profitable as competitors get better and better.

So what they did was absolutely brilliant.

First, they held off until after christmas, so all the parents had to shell out $$$ for the Mini???s and Regular Pods(again, they leveraged their brand name when it was strongest).

Now, they release the shuffle. It will probably cheapen the brand name, sure. But in the mean time, in people???s minds, simply calling it an ipod makes it infinitely more attractive to most buyers.

So they pedle a simple, easy-to-use, flash-based, and VERY CHEAP iPod to the market. This pod does a number of things:

1)The people who wanted a regular Ipod and could afford one already bought one, so this then attracts the people who have less money but still want a pod
2) People who need an iPod to exercise now have an option (I just bought a 512MB in addition to my 4g 40GB for excercising). People don???t need screens or confusing buttons when running
3) Poeople (like me), who buy music from itunes now have a very light, very portable device to run the songs on
4) People who are not tech savy, and don???t have a lot of songs, now have a simple alternative to the more complex larger ipods. My mom, for example, would love this. She listens to MAYBE a grand total of 100 songs. This is perfect for her - and much easier to use (she can???t figure out the click wheel). Further, the price is a huge phsychological barrier - it is now in the 2 digits.
5)It???s a stepping stone. Younger people and people newer to digital music can buy one now, and in the future, when they have more money and/or knowledge can upgrade a standard Ipod.
6) There are people who just want the iPod for style, but wereheld back because of the price. This new one gives them a cheap ???piece of jewelry.???

The point is that the relatively small niche for complex screen-based Flash MP3 players is already crowded. Apple knows this. Waht they did is sheer brilliance. Instead of trying to fight directly with the other companies, they created YET ANOTHER NEW NICHE - a new one for people who don???t have or care to have a high-tech MP3 player of any kind, and just want something simple that works that holds about a 100 songs (about the amount most normal people listen to). This is sheer brilliance, and Apple will profit tremendously.

dcmacnut

01-12-2005, 02:59 PM

Well said, VarLordahl. Another thing I'd like to add is how this could help Apple in the non-US world might look at the iPod shuffle. Right now, flash iPods rule the market in Asia -- iPods sell, but not as well as flash players. This will give get Apple a chance to compete. Having lived in Japan, I for one know that Japanese teenagers love anything "trendy" or "cute." The iPod shuffle just might appeal to that demographic, and even hit some of the adults, too.

gregrobson

01-12-2005, 03:05 PM

I think you've pretty much nailed every point there VarLordahl.

The key thing is that they saw a crowded market and decided to make their own. If people don't understand the iPod Shuffle or don't like it - they have alternatives.

The more exposure the devices get, the better the chances of selling other Mac devices. I am now considering buying the mini mac when I finish my degree so i can see how the websites I design look and really just mess around to see why others having been praising them through thick or thin.

canyonblue737

01-12-2005, 04:05 PM

Originally posted by VarLordahl
This is sheer brilliance, and Apple will profit tremendously.

BINGO. Everything you said is spot on.

The people who are complaining that these small, low cost, iPods don't have an LCD and proper navigation are people who would have bought a flash iPod IN PLACE of the higher cost iPods had it met their expectations. That would have been a disaster for Apple. They targeted this product at folks who couldn't afford a bigger iPod, who needed a small shock proof iPod (runners etc.), or current iPod users who want a secondary smaller iPod for when the need arises. All of that targets a market untapped while still keeping the other iPods a viable product. Now everyone has a product that suits them.

You can have your cake and eat it too apparently. Bravo Apple.

uglyfish

01-12-2005, 04:10 PM

Does anyone know if the Shuff can be used to carry other data files (.doc, .wmv, jpegs etc.) as if it was a regular USB memory stick?
If it does (and it should - I use half a gig of my 2nd gen 30Gb iPod to carry data) then it is very sexy indeed.

studogvetmed

01-12-2005, 04:28 PM

Originally posted by uglyfish
Does anyone know if the Shuff can be used to carry other data files (.doc, .wmv, jpegs etc.) as if it was a regular USB memory stick?
If it does (and it should - I use half a gig of my 2nd gen 30Gb iPod to carry data) then it is very sexy indeed.

People hav referenced it's ability to do this in this thread. It's also directly on Apple's website about the iPod shuffle: http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle

As long as you leave enough room for said files, it will store and transport them.

Stuart

miketex

01-12-2005, 05:49 PM

I love my iPod mini and 15 gig 3rd gen..... but come on, for $129 I can get the following (where I can use a single, replaceable AAA battery):

Creative Labs MuVo TX FM 512MB - This extremely portable digital audio player is about the size of a pack of gum, allowing you to take it pretty much anywhere.
# No cables required - Plugs directly into an available USB port
# Supports USB 2.0 high-speed data transfers
# 512MB player holds up to 16 hours WMA or 8 hours MP3 music
# Easy drag-and-drop functionality for adding music files to the MuVo
# Built-in FM tuner with recording capabilities
# Built-in Microphone for up to 16 hours of voice recording
# Windows Media Player 9 support works with most music download services
# Includes: Neodymium headphones, sports armband, belt clip, & 1 AAA battery; Instructions in English and Japanese

tenin2wenty10

01-12-2005, 06:06 PM

QUOTE "As long as you leave enough room for said files, it will store and transport them."

you can set the specific amount that is set aside for regular files, so you always have space for them!

dcmacnut

01-12-2005, 07:19 PM

Originally posted by miketex
I love my iPod mini and 15 gig 3rd gen..... but come on, for $129 I can get the following (where I can use a single, replaceable AAA battery):

Creative Labs MuVo TX FM 512MB - This extremely portable digital audio player is about the size of a pack of gum, allowing you to take it pretty much anywhere.
# No cables required - Plugs directly into an available USB port
# Supports USB 2.0 high-speed data transfers
# 512MB player holds up to 16 hours WMA or 8 hours MP3 music
# Easy drag-and-drop functionality for adding music files to the MuVo
# Built-in FM tuner with recording capabilities
# Built-in Microphone for up to 16 hours of voice recording
# Windows Media Player 9 support works with most music download services
# Includes: Neodymium headphones, sports armband, belt clip, & 1 AAA battery; Instructions in English and Japanese
And since you have two iPods, you would buy a player that doesn't support the iTunes Music Store, why?

wolfpacker

01-12-2005, 07:29 PM

miketex,

The MuVo cost more, weighs more, is a less elegant design that doesn't play songs from the iTMS. Point by point:

>Creative Labs MuVo TX FM 512MB - This extremely portable digital >audio player is about the size of a pack of gum, allowing you to >take it pretty much anywhere.
The iPod shuffle is even smaller and lighter.
># No cables required - Plugs directly into an available USB port
Same for the shuffle
># Supports USB 2.0 high-speed data transfers
same for shuffle
># 512MB player holds up to 16 hours WMA or 8 hours MP3 music
same space for the shuffle.
># Easy drag-and-drop functionality for adding music files to the >MuVo
I seriously doubt it approaches iTunes ease of use with an iPod.
># Built-in FM tuner with recording capabilities
Why would I want to listen to crappy FM stations when I have an iPod? And pay more to do so?
># Built-in Microphone for up to 16 hours of voice recording
Not worth the extra cost
># Windows Media Player 9 support works with most music >download services
Not the most popular one, iTMS
># Includes: Neodymium headphones, sports armband, belt clip, & >1 AAA battery; Instructions in English and Japanese
So, I have to keep buying batteries for this thing? Or, on top of what I've already paid, buy rechargable batteries? including armband, clip is nice, but as the price is more, I think the apple solution is better, as users may prefer third party solutions for these instead.

timwindsor

01-13-2005, 12:02 AM

I haven't seen this addressed directly:

I already have an iPod mini, synced to my iTunes.

Can I now add this iPod Shuffle, without affecting the mini's syncing to the same library?

Specifically, I see the mini functioning as it is right now, with the Shuffle being only for podcasts and recently-added music.

Will iTunes allow two different iPods to sync to the same library with different sync prefs?

dcmacnut

01-13-2005, 12:31 AM

Originally posted by timwindsor
I haven't seen this addressed directly:

I already have an iPod mini, synced to my iTunes.

Can I now add this iPod Shuffle, without affecting the mini's syncing to the same library?

Specifically, I see the mini functioning as it is right now, with the Shuffle being only for podcasts and recently-added music.

Will iTunes allow two different iPods to sync to the same library with different sync prefs?
Yes. That will work.

jdwhit

01-13-2005, 01:45 AM

I think that most of you have missed the big picture. Apple was declining then they came with the Mac. This kicked them up for a time but PC's still shut them out. Then came the original iMac and they had another push and fall back. The iPod is the first product that has reached a dominant market share. With the shuffle they are protecting challenge from the value side. Also they will attract allot of new consumers with the $99.00 price. The new consumers will try and love iTunes. With the intro of the Mac mini for $499.00 allot of these new consumers will become Mac users and this will give apple the chance to move into a serious player in the consumer computer market again. I think that the intro of these two products at the same time is brilliant.

jdwhit

01-13-2005, 01:45 AM

riley

01-13-2005, 01:52 AM

Originally posted by gregrobson
Exactly - I think some are missing the point, it's not meant to be a smaller version of the iPod mini - it's for those doing busy activities who want no skips and will most likely put their "jogging/cycling" playlist on it (all of the songs will probably be picked by hand for the activity - I'm guessing upbeat stuff for 99% of people).

When cycling/running the only button you may want is next track, which is easy to reach on your arm or if it's around your neck.

It's not for cars, or long train journeys - it's a short use device.
Exactly. This is marketed towards people who don't need a specific song. Who looks at the screen of an mp3 player when they're jogging/cycling? And some people don't care about the screen. CD players don't have screens either, you know. ;)

I ordered the 512 MB version, for running/cycling/whatever. I already have a 20 GB 3rd gen for listening to music/walking around, but it does not work well as a jogging companion at all. I had been saving money for a workout mp3 player for months, and I didn't have a clue on what to get until this came out--it suits my needs perfectly. That, and I needed a USB drive too, so this is perfect.

baggss

01-13-2005, 01:55 AM

Originally posted by miketex

# Windows Media Player 9 support works with most music download services

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

That ALONE should be enough to make you not want to wast your money on it....

MeTaL

01-13-2005, 08:38 AM

Suddenly people need usb drives too :) There are $30 512 mb drives in the market... I got a Sandisk Micro recently for that price :)

miketex

01-13-2005, 10:35 AM

Originally posted by baggss
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

That ALONE should be enough to make you not want to wast your money on it....

Ha ha ha.... the point is that for $29 more you get a device that provides a lot more features than the iShuffle toy. I don't want either (the Creative Labs product nor the crap iPod shuffle).

miketex

01-13-2005, 10:37 AM

Originally posted by dcmacnut
And since you have two iPods, you would buy a player that doesn't support the iTunes Music Store, why?

No. I would not buy a player that doesn't support the iTunes Music store. I have no intention of buying the Creative Labs device nor an iPod shuffle. The point is that for $29 more, there is a product that provides more features than the shuffle.

elbandido

01-13-2005, 11:51 AM

the more i read about the iPod shuffle the more i like the concept - mind the word "concept". since it's a different concept, it can't be compared with the iPod or iPod mini. it's a pointless discussion. it just don't fit in the "your entire music collection at your fingertips" concept.

i already own a 40gig iPod which can (just) hold my entire music library. the new iPod shuffle can't replace it, but it can be a perfect compagnon. i wouldn't pack an iPod shuffle for traveling in the same way that i don't bring along my precious 40gig iPod on a wild mountain-bike ride.

"there's no screen"
indeed, there's no screen. why whould i need one? it can only hold 5 to 10 albums (the average size of my LAME encoded albums is about 100 mb). i now my music library well enough to recognize what's playing. even a single-line display wouldn't make life much easier to find a specific song. it would make the device heavier and more vulnerable to scratches.

"battery life can be better"
apple chooses the "ease of use" path instead of trying to "outspec" the whole range of flash-based mp3 players in the market. i'm glad the iPod shuffle doesn't has the hassle of buying some rechargeable AAA battery (of which i do not own a charger). charging the iPod shuffle through an usb port is plain and simple. due to its limited capacity, you'd probably sync or refill your iPod shuffle a few times a week. leave it connected afterwards for a few moments, and you're up and running (literally) again. fits the picture.

"easily outspec'd by other flash-based mp3 players in the same price range"
indeed, you can't record from a build-in fm tuner (what the hell would you record on a low-capacity device anyway?). how many people will actually use these kind of exotic features? excluding the "proof of concept" users and reviewers, maybe a handful. again, apple chooses "easy of use" over specs. why complicating the use of a device in favor of some infrequently used features? sounds like a bad idea.

the key to the succes of the iPod story (apart from its sleek looks) is imho the seamless integration of hardware, firmware and software. prior to my 40gig iPod i owned a handful of hard-disk based players. not one of them came even close to the ease of getting music on the device, managing and browsing through a large music library as the iPod/iTunes combination does. integrating the iPod shuffle concept in this is an excellent idea.

Mina

01-13-2005, 12:31 PM

I think apple marketing have been playing a very clever game with music lovers. Milking as much money as possible from each subsequent release. After many high end players added to the ipod family this new member is giving current ipod owners and new apple customers a chance to own yet another apple device. Each player aimed at a niche market, and by giving a wider range it gives nearly anyone a reason to go out and buy one. Well done apple i say.

Mina.

shervon

01-13-2005, 01:41 PM

my first post :)

i used to sell mp3 players to shops, and know how to tear apart those cheap china mp3 players that you see on ebay. and i own a 15GB 3rd gen ipod.

I think only Apple with the IPod brandname can come up with a mp3 player without a screen. but i think it's a concept that sells.

and having tried out the mp3 players i sell, one i like most was small (cigarette lighter size) and rechargeble. I didn't even bother about looking at the screen cos i know what i was listening and it didn't matter that it doesn't plug in directly to USB port.

the only reason stopping me from getting an iShuffle is that i'm currently out of a job :) maybe i'll ask for it for my birthday / valentine's day present... longing to hang it round my neck :) i know people will be looking at my iShuffle when I'm on the train, and they won't be thinking about the feature-packed Creative players.

shervon

01-13-2005, 01:44 PM

AAA battery vs rechargeble battery - beware of AAA battery leak
LCD screen - may scratch or crack when subjected to rough usage
direct FM recordable - the sound quality is terrible
voice recording function [standard in most mp3 player] - good feature to have, but do you really use it?

wolfpacker

01-13-2005, 04:31 PM

Also, that $29 price difference is huge in percentage terms. Adds an extra 30 percent to the price!! If I don't think I'll use the features, I don't want to pay for them.

miketex

01-13-2005, 04:49 PM

As is the usual case here, most folks miss the point..... I could care less about the Creative Labs flash player, I picked it at random as a device with the same capacity, but more features at around the same price as the shuffle. The thought was what is Apple competing with? Flash players. Okay, what flash players are out there, what features do they have and what is the price. Why would a consumer who doesn't own an iPod all ready chose the shuffle over another flash player.

As a side comment about "AAA battery leakage"..... I've used flashed players with AAA batteries for years before I got two iPods..... never had a problem with battery leakage.

wolfpacker

01-13-2005, 05:00 PM

Again, YOU miss the point. There is one feature that ultimately matters for a music player - playing music. Apple does it well, does it cheaper, and does it easier than the competition here (for the shuffle). Why add cost for the 2% (or whatever) who care about feature X? Why in the world would I spend $129 for a Muvo with 512MB when for $20 more I can get a 1 GB iPod?

If you want FM or voice recording or whatnot, I'm sure Belkin will sell you an add-on. I applaud Apple for their design simplicity and low, low price.

YPie

01-13-2005, 05:06 PM

I'm getting very very tempted. I love my 20BG, but the way I use it really fits the shuffle.

I have a smart playlist set up which is currently sitting at about 1GB. I usually listen to this on shuffle, and rarely navigate around within it to find specific songs. If I'm away from home for a while on holiday or on long journeys I do use my iPod in other ways, but that playlist is the main thing I use.

When I'm listening to the playlist I'm usually in the gym. My iPod hasn't come to any harm yet, but it would be nice to have a version which isn't as precious to me and hopefully more suited to that use. I also use it on the bus travelling into and out of work. At the most that's an hour each way, and possibly an hour or so at lunchtime. The shuffle would fit in my bag far more easily, so would be good for that too. If I was planning on using the iPod for more than three or four hours in a day I'd take the big one, but the shuffle would probably be more than adequate for my daily use.

The only thing that's putting me off is the lack of screen. I know most of my music, but when I add a new album I like to see what the tracks are called etc while I get to know them. I'm also fanatical about rating my songs, and use the iPod to do this on the go. These are the only two things that differ from the way I curretly use my iPod. Oh, and the fact that if I wanted to take both on holiday (iPod for the plane, shuffle for the beach/pool) I'd presumably have to take two chargers?