iPod Shuffle To Be Discontinued?

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com)

Spymac is claiming (http://www.spymac.com/news/article.php?contentid=4666) that the iPod Shuffle line will be discontinued once current inventory is depleted.

Spymac has primarily turned away from rumors and its current reliability is unknown. Previous rumors and speculation (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2006/02/20060202070336.shtml) had indicated that the 1 GB iPod Nano would replace the iPod Shuffle. Apple has since released (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2006/02/20060207084051.shtml) the 1 GB iPod Nano and cut the original price of the Shuffle.

[Spartacus]

I still think the Shuffle fills a unique roll in the iPod line. Even the Nano does not allow the same thoughtless portability that the Shuffle provides, and the Nano is still too expensive for some consumers. I think Apple would rather sell a $60.00 Shuffle than no $150.00 Nano, so they will keep the Shuffle around in one form or another.

[longofest]

I still think the Shuffle fills a unique roll in the iPod line. Even the Nano does not allow the same thoughtless portability that the Shuffle provides, and the Nano is still too expensive for some consumers. I think Apple would rather sell a $60.00 Shuffle than no $150.00 Nano, so they will keep the Shuffle around in one form or another.

I, for one, would like to see the Shuffle stay around... It's a thumb drive with music capabilities how I see it :) . Nano is too big for thumb-drive, and you'd have to carry a cable.

[paddy]

Its just great for running and theres no real alternative on the iPod line for those interested in using it for excerise. It will stay.

[hyperpasta]

Keep the shuffle, but maybe remove the model that overlaps with the nano's lowest model (Ex: Right now, no 1GB shuffle, but if the next iPod nano starts at 2GB, then the shuffle can move back up to 1GB)

And make it cheeappp.

I'd buy a 512MB shuffle for $39. And in a year, that'd probably be pretty easy.

[crees!]

Wishful thinking but if the shuffle is dropped and the nano replaces it maybe they're making headway for the sought after true video iPod. My guess if this is the case Apple wouldn't want to confuse customers with so many options, that being 4 different models plus different sizes/colors to choose between them. Yes choice is good but it can be excessive.

[iGary]

Its just great for running and theres no real alternative on the iPod line for those interested in using it for excerise. It will stay.


I agree, but it wouldn't surprise me if they ditched it.

I like the shuffle for my beat it up music player. :D

[Doctor Q]

If this is true, what happens to the great lure of the under-$100 price? Can Apple hope to offer any iPod with a screen below this price point?

If not, Apple would be giving up a market segment, namely the customers spending that graduation check from their uncle to get an entry-level music player.

[HiroProtagonist]

Good Riddance :o

[fixyourthinking]

I say they get rid of it for compatibility sake ... it's the only iPod without a dock connector.

I think they could manage a non color Nano at a $79 pricepoint

[awinn233]

Spymac sucks now, I wouldn't believe anything they say.

[nagromme]

The Nano is very tiny, almost as small as the Shuffle, and like the Shuffle it has no HD and is safe for shocks during exercise.

But the price point is important. If the Shuffle goes, a new Shuffle/Nano/something will replace it.

(And Spymac was once reliable for rumors? I take MR's word for it but all I remember is iWalk :o )

[shadowmoses]

This is welcome in my books they should just drop the price of the 1gb Nano and be gone with the Shuffle.....

I have found my Nano to very tough I use it everywhere I go jogging, training, travelling and it still works great and the screen is a god send in comparison to using a shuffle therefore i see no need for it in the current lineup as it was only brought in to attract people to iTunes and make them purchase a full iPod....

ShadoW

[Yonizzle]

The Nano is very tiny, almost as small as the Shuffle, and like the Shuffle it has no HD and is safe for shocks during exercise.

But the price point is important. If the Shuffle goes, a new Shuffle/Nano/something will replace it.
I agree that if they can get the Nano's price down far enough, there's not lots of reason to keep the shuffle around, other than it has one less bit to worry about damaging.

(And Spymac was once reliable for rumors? I take MR's word for it but all I remember is iWalk :o )
This is the first thing that came to my mind when I saw the story. Anyone care to remind me what SpyMac actually got right?

[ChrisA]

I don't doubt Apple will drop the current Shuffle some day. But they will replace it it with "Shuffle II", "Son or Shuffle" or whatever. Who knows maybe something 1/2 it's size and sturdy enough to go through a washing machine cycle??? Of course they will drop it. That's not news. News be be dailts of whats to replace it and when

[mproud]

iPod shuffles can no longer be recycled for 10% off a new iPod. Only nanos and the iPod can.

[wedge antilies]

I don't see it happening. They may stop selling the curreny Shuffle, however, they still need a low end MP3 player.

Personally I think they should do them in colours to re-ignite interest.

-Red 2.

[m-dogg]

Good Riddance :o


why so anti-shuffle?

they serve 2 purposes very well:

1) hook people without a lot of money to spend on the ipod/itunes/fairplay/aac model, so when they eventually do upgrade to a better model they are invested in the apple model.

2) it's an excellent bare-bones, worry-free, light-as-a-feather, no-screen-to-get-scratched, exercise ipod. and often times in this scenario being sold as a second ipod to an existing ipod owner.

(obviously, I think the shuffle should remain in the ipod lineup)

I don't doubt Apple will drop the current Shuffle some day. But they will replace it it with "Shuffle II", "Son or Shuffle" or whatever. Who knows maybe something 1/2 it's size and sturdy enough to go through a washing machine cycle??? Of course they will drop it. That's not news. News be be dailts of whats to replace it and when


Ooooo, a waterproof shuffle - I like that! It's only a matter of time, kinda like the sport series of walkmans sony used to make...

[Xeem]

I don't doubt Apple will drop the current Shuffle some day. But they will replace it it with "Shuffle II", "Son or Shuffle" or whatever. Who knows maybe something 1/2 it's size and sturdy enough to go through a washing machine cycle??? Of course they will drop it. That's not news. News be be dailts of whats to replace it and when

I agree: I think that a smaller version if the Shuffle will appear to take its place. They might keep them at 512 MB to prevent any competition with the nano, though.

Oh, and my sister's Shuffle did go through most of a wash cycle (soap and all), and it still works perfectly.

[NYmacAttack]

Ooooo, a waterproof shuffle - I like that! It's only a matter of time, kinda like the sport series of walkmans sony used to make...


Waterproof would be a cool feature. I just wonder if there is a big enough market.

[iJawn108]

Ooooo, a waterproof shuffle - I like that! It's only a matter of time, kinda like the sport series of walkmans sony used to make...
http://www.drypodcase.com/

[iJawn108]

I was going to pick one up today but it's raining and I don't want to take the bus. Anyways I hope they make a new line of shuffle replacements.

[milo]

I love my shuffle, if they really discontinued it I'd be tempted to buy another to have around.

It doesn't really make sense to discontinue it unless they can drop the nano to the current shuffle price points. And I don't think that's possible.

The nano is cool, but too expensive for entry level and too fragile. It's great having an ipod that's cheap enough to be almost disposable.

[MacBookDJ]

I'm not sure why Apple would give away the low-end mp3 player market to one of their competitors. The Shuffle is a gateway iPod. It's also a good "second" iPod. Rumor doesn't make musch sense to me unless Apple's planning to release a Shuffle replacement at the same time.

[telecomm]

Interestingly, the Shuffle's got the best sound quality of the lot. Hope the other iPods catch up in this respect.

[aswitcher]

A would like them to hang around, drop price and go black...

[miranderm]

I'm not sure why Apple would give away the low-end mp3 player market to one of their competitors. The Shuffle is a gateway iPod. It's also a good "second" iPod. Rumor doesn't make musch sense to me unless Apple's planning to release a Shuffle replacement at the same time.

Shuffle is great!! Colour shape and texture are always optionally modifiable.

[Doctor Q]

Perhaps it's time to stock up on iPod shuffles so I can sell them when Apple no longer does!

I wonder if rumors like this actually cause anyone to buy products "just in case" they are about to become unavailable.

I did have an urge to snap up an iPod mini or two just as they were being replaced because I thought some people would still prefer the mini's form factor and colors.

[Yvan256]

Wishful thinking but if the shuffle is dropped and the nano replaces it maybe they're making headway for the sought after true video iPod. My guess if this is the case Apple wouldn't want to confuse customers with so many options, that being 4 different models plus different sizes/colors to choose between them. Yes choice is good but it can be excessive.

Why would there be four different models?

The way I see it:
- iPod shuffle (new model, maybe 2/3 the size of the current iPod shuffle. White 512MB, black 1GB)
- iPod nano (White 2GB and 4GB, black 8GB)
- iPod (new model, "Video iPod / PDA / Kitchen Sink / etc" - white 40GB, black 80GB)

Just like the iPod photo replaced the old iPod and the iPod with video replaced the iPod, the new iPod will replace the iPod. If that makes any sense...

And don't forget: the iPod shuffle is the only iPod that doesn't require you to carry a cable to connect it to a computer. And if they price it right (and adjust the price often enough), they can compete with those low-cost USB drives ("hey, for only 10$ more I get an iPod").

[Warbrain]

Why would there be four different models?

The way I see it:
- iPod shuffle (new model, maybe 2/3 the size of the current iPod shuffle. White 512MB, black 1GB)
- iPod nano (White 2GB and 4GB, black 8GB)
- iPod (new model, "Video iPod / PDA / Kitchen Sink / etc" - white 40GB, black 80GB)

Just like the iPod photo replaced the old iPod and the iPod with video replaced the iPod, the new iPod will replace the iPod. If that makes any sense...

And don't forget: the iPod shuffle is the only iPod that doesn't require you to carry a cable to connect it to a computer. And if they price it right (and adjust the price often enough), they can compete with those low-cost USB drives ("hey, for only 10$ more I get an iPod").

This would work except for the fact that Apple released the iPod photo before merging the iPod and iPod photo lines together. There would be four different models for a time.

Personally, keep the shuffle. I love mine. When they dropped the price to 69 bucks for a 512 MB, I went and bought one. It's at the perfect price. People are buying them. They're nice to have when you have an old iPod with a terrible battery.

[aswitcher]

Why would there be four different models?

The way I see it:
- iPod shuffle (new model, maybe 2/3 the size of the current iPod shuffle. White 512MB, black 1GB)
- iPod nano (White 2GB and 4GB, black 8GB)
- iPod (new model, "Video iPod / PDA / Kitchen Sink / etc" - white 40GB, black 80GB)

Just like the iPod photo replaced the old iPod and the iPod with video replaced the iPod, the new iPod will replace the iPod. If that makes any sense...

And don't forget: the iPod shuffle is the only iPod that doesn't require you to carry a cable to connect it to a computer. And if they price it right (and adjust the price often enough), they can compete with those low-cost USB drives ("hey, for only 10$ more I get an iPod").

That would be a nice outcome. Now if the nano had an OELD display that allow me to look through my music and files that would be perfect.

[mproud]

This would work except for the fact that Apple released the iPod photo before merging the iPod and iPod photo lines together. There would be four different models for a time.

Personally, keep the shuffle. I love mine. When they dropped the price to 69 bucks for a 512 MB, I went and bought one. It's at the perfect price. People are buying them. They're nice to have when you have an old iPod with a terrible battery.

I agree with everything you said.

The other nice thing is, it's a flash drive. AND it has a one-year warranty, so if it stops working, you can get it serviced.

[zv470]

Eeek Noooooooo!! :eek: :( That would be really bad.

[KindredMAC]

SpyMac shouldn't be trusted for anything anymore. That website is the example of how you can ******* such a good thing up by sheer greed.

I haven't been over there in a long time. Kinda pissed me up when they dumped all of our Gallery postings when they upgraded their system. Just took all that made SpyMac, SpyMac, and threw it out like yesterday's garbage.

I think the Shuffle should be kept....at least one model sub $100, maybe even sub $70. My Shuffle is great for a quick and easy mini music fix. I've been using my 3rd Gen iPod more lately, but only because I've been using it more as a Hard Drive for taking work back and forth from my work office and my home office. Amazing how 10GB is actually more than enough to hold 700+ songs and a whole mess of Photoshop, Illustrator and Flash files!

I think some of these bigger iPod's are just plain obese except when it comes to video. The average consumer really only needs a high end Nano. How many "Average Joes", aka PC users or Mac users like my parents, actually use the current video set up for buying and watching TV shows? I don't think many... I don't think I would use it much if I ever upgraded from my 3G iPod to a new Video iPod. It's "cool tech" not a necessity.

[celebrian23]

I can't see the shuffle being tossed out. It fills an amazing niche that the nano cannot fill. I think if anyhting, it whill be updated, but it will stay. It's a great gift for kids too- not a full-blown ipod where you have to worry about your 13 yr. old scratching it up, but still offers a valuable service. It's also great for the car.

[Shamus]

I think it would be sad to see the sub-$100 iPod range disappear. As others have mentioned, it is a great USB thumb drive, because you have the plug there with you all the time.

Of course the Shuffle will be discontinued at some time in the future, but it will certainly be replaced by something even better. :cool: SpyMac seem to be stating the obvious with this one...

"Hey, everyone! The Macbook is going to be discontinued!......eventually"

[corywoolf]

I bet they discontinue the 512 MB and put a newly designed 1 GB Shuffle @ $69. The 1 GB nano gets dropped to $99. That would be sick!

[.Andy]

I hope they don't drop it or at least replace it with something comparable. I dont' have one but have always meant to pick one up when I had some extra cash to combine as a USB storage device whilst at work. I bought one for my fiance and she loves it to death. It put her on the iTunes and podcast bandwagon where she was othewise apathetic towards any tech.

[ccool2ax]

Wishful thinking but if the shuffle is dropped and the nano replaces it maybe they're making headway for the sought after true video iPod. My guess if this is the case Apple wouldn't want to confuse customers with so many options, that being 4 different models plus different sizes/colors to choose between them. Yes choice is good but it can be excessive.


Sorry, but the "true video Ipod" is BS. Apple and others have released so much 320x240 content already. The rumor sites finally got to stop making Video iPod rumors when the 5g came out, but since there was no product to make rumors up off of, they just kept doing Video iPod.

Ignore my sig, outta date.

[truz]

I agree, I think the shuffle should stay... I just purchased a 512mb and a 1gb for myself and wife. I plan to start running again as shes been asking for a running partner, I thought they would be great for running. I got the 512mb in today and I have to say they are very unique and seem like they can handle a beatin'.

Unless apple plans on making something smaller and better I don't think the shuffle should leave the market.

[menziep]

I For one Agree with spymac due to Evadence of this


The iPod Hi-Fi didnt have full support for the shuffle (No USB)
If stocks are too high then there not selling and its pointless for apple to continue making the shuffle
Apple make more money selling the iPod 5th gen and the Nano

[kneeslasher]

The Shuffle was the only iPod with transcode-on-the-fly ability from iTunes. I hap hoped this ability would be added to the other iPods as well. Conversely, Apple are pulling the only iPod which had this ability...

[peharri]

I think the Shuffle will be discontinued.

But I think they'll replace it. It's, right now, a bit of an anachronism. vs the competition, it's poorly featured (its major advantage is that it can play stuff from the iTMS, and given its low capacity, I'm sure a lot of people are more than happy to burn music to a CD and re-import it to get it to work on a competitor.) Despite the iPod branding, it has nothing whatsoever in common with the other iPods.

The competition has devices that work with cheaply available external storage and that have some form of display, in the same price range. The capacity issue will become more and more important, given the plummetting price of flash memory.

I suspect Apple will rethink it. It will want to continue to have a player in the sub-$100 category, it's just the Shuffle isn't the right machine. I strongly doubt it'll be an iPod nano, and I suspect whatever it is will need to be limited to not compete with the nano. But you might see a small, 1G (non-upgradable), monochrome machine for under $100, with something resembling a touch-wheel, once the iPod nano models have had their capacities significantly upgraded.

[Caitlyn]

I've been waiting for this new lineup to take effect since the 1GB Nano was released, so really no surprise here.

Just a guess, but I'm thinking the lineup will end up being something like this:
iPod Nano 1GB (Shuffle Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 2GB (Shuffle Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 6GB (Current Nano Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 8GB (Current Nano Line Replacement)
"iPod AV" 60GB (Current 5G Line Replacement)
"iPod AV" 80GB (Current 5G Line Replacement)

Again, just a guess, but I could see it working out nicely actually. :)

[johnmcboston]

why so anti-shuffle?

they serve 2 purposes very well:

1) hook people without a lot of money to spend ...
2) it's an excellent bare-bones, worry-free,

You forget the Mom factor. Not being a geek something like scrolling through menus and playlists and all is too confusing for her (and other non technoids). Let's face it - she still carries a cassette deck cuz it's easy.

A shuffle with a big PLAY button is jsut what she needs. (yes, I have to load it with songs for her. :-)

[semaja2]

i think they should stay, like seriously its a great mp3 player ive been meaning to buy one just so i can sync my songs and podcasts to it in the mornings, i mean i dont have like 500 bucks to spend on a proper ipod and can hardly afford to buy a shuffle.

[madmaxmedia]

The Shuffle was the only iPod with transcode-on-the-fly ability from iTunes. I hap hoped this ability would be added to the other iPods as well. Conversely, Apple are pulling the only iPod which had this ability...

The Shuffle itself isn't doing it, it's all through iTunes. So it's up to Apple to add support for other iPods, they just haven't done so...

[zap2]

Up the Nano to 2Gb, 4Gb, and ,6Gbs and have a 1Gb Shuffle and a 512 and your good

[thejadedmonkey]

There was a rumor of the "real" video iPod being different from the iPod, so it would be shuffle, nano, ipod, video. a 4 ipod lineup.

Apple's all about doing things in threes...3 laptops, 3 desktops.
Here's my predictions..or rather wishful thinking.

All three iPods are end of life'd.

the iPod Shuffle gets revised to become an iPod shuffle II
the core iPod becomes a flash based player with 10 gigs of space and slightly smaller.
the iPod video is released.

[zap2]

Apple's all about doing things in threes...3 laptops, 3 desktops.


Um not really

Laptop-2 MacBook and MacBook Pro(before that PowerBook and iBook)
Desktop-iMac, Mac Mini eMac and PowerMac

[DavidFDM]

What I like most about my Shuffle is that it is practically disposable. If I lost it, broke it or had it stolen, I wouldn't be that upset, because it is less than $100 US. I would be mostly annoyed by the inconvenience of buying another and loading it up. I think there is a definitely a place for it in the product lineup; hopefully the sales figures reflect that. To me, it's the perfect second iPod and I have found that I like it more than my full size 10GB iPod. I throw it around my neck when I go and wear it practically all day.

[Afro1989]

I agree. I love my Shuffle! It's not like I throw it around or play football with it, but it's not like I have to take as much care of it as I would with a Video iPod. I sold two iPod Nanos because they were way too much to take care of. I should stock up on 'em before they are discontinued. =p

[Eniregnat]

I just sold my 1gb shuffle. I loved it. A simple disk key and backup iPod for trips. Humm... Perhaps Apple will introduce a smaller shuffle with a screen.

Short lived as it was, the chav iPod was a great idea.

[fixyourthinking]

What I like most about my Shuffle is that it is practically disposable. If I lost it, broke it or had it stolen, I wouldn't be that upset, because it is less than $100 US. I would be mostly annoyed by the inconvenience of buying another and loading it up. I think there is a definitely a place for it in the product lineup; hopefully the sales figures reflect that. To me, it's the perfect second iPod and I have found that I like it more than my full size 10GB iPod. I throw it around my neck when I go and wear it practically all day.


I've never understood this line of thinking ... are you saying you wouldn't mind if you lost a $50 bill either? What about (4) $20's?

I'd be pretty upset ... and I do pretty well ... in fact it might ruin my week, not my life, or month, but certainly my week.

I'd be pretty upset if I lost an iPod Shuffle.

[whee900]

The shuffle is great... But can Apple still make a decent profit even with the low $60 price point? That'll be the only incentive they might have to discontinue the Shuffle, if Apple actually does so.

[jTreu]

discontinuing the shuffle would be pointless, it perfect for loading up with a playlist and throwing in your pocket without having to worry about losing something expenisve or scratching it up (like the screen on all other ipods). the onyl reason they could be discontinuing it is their not making enough profit on each unit to justify continuing production.

[wide]

The shuffle will probably be phased out and replaced with a small ipod that has an OLED screen. Let's face it: the shuffle's nice, but it would be even better with one or two lines of rolling text and some controls that let you select specific songs.

[pedrov]

new ipod shuffle lineup confirmed:

Same width but 2/3 the length of current shuffle

512mb model $59
1gb model: $79
1gb model in black: $149

[wyrmintheapple]

new ipod shuffle lineup confirmed:

Same width but 2/3 the length of current shuffle

512mb model $59
1gb model: $79
1gb model in black: $149

Confirmed? By who? You?

I mean, I could see the size, thats something Apple would do, and the in black thing, I could imagine that too.....

But you'd have more credibility if you didn't say 'confirmed'.

[kugino]

Confirmed? By who? You?

I mean, I could see the size, thats something Apple would do, and the in black thing, I could imagine that too.....

But you'd have more credibility if you didn't say 'confirmed'.
$70 extra for black?! umm, i don't think so...

unless it has new features it's not substantially different than the current shuffles, save a bit of size. i've been deciding how to spend my ipod claims credit, and i think a shuffle would be perfect.

[celebrian23]

I'm buying a shuffle once my graduation money starts rolling in. This is a bad time to be buying an ipod and I won't have to worry about scatcing the screen on a shuffle :p

[boncellis]

I, for one, would like to see the Shuffle stay around... It's a thumb drive with music capabilities how I see it :) . Nano is too big for thumb-drive, and you'd have to carry a cable.

What if Apple stuck the USB connector on the bottom of the Nano and ditched the dock connector? Maybe it's not feasible technology wise, but combined with a price drop, that would make a pretty sweet thumb drive.

I know, I know..."what if" Apple made iMacs for $999 and gave away a free 5G iPod with it...

[iJawn108]

I just got one today and lost my mac virginity. :p I'm installing as we speak.

[tristan]

Say your prayers, iPod shuffle!

Yeah, I think an iPod with no screen is kinda lame. Even the early Diamond Rios had little displays. Buh bye.

[DrEasy]

All the Shuffle needs is a "skip playlist" button/mode (to support multiple playlists) and it'll be perfect. No screen please! I'd gladly upgrade to that if it came out.

[asxtb]

My prediction (actually wishful thinking)... A 3 iPod family.
The shuffle and the nano mate and produce a nano/shuffle hybrid. Maybe something the size of the Apple remote with a screen. 2 and 4 GB. So bye bye shuffle and bye bye nano.
Next the iPod mini is back! But with a 30 and 60 GB hard drive. So good bye to the iPod as we know it today.
Finally the vPod! The much rumored full video iPod. 80 and 100 GB hard drive.

Hey, I can dream...:o

[dhc]

All the Shuffle needs is a "skip playlist" button/mode (to support multiple playlists) and it'll be perfect. No screen please! I'd gladly upgrade to that if it came out.

Agreed.

Despite the increased storage capacity and obvious additional functionality my "real" iPod has, I find myself using my 512mb shuffle far, far more often (daily).

Encoding at 320 aac means I only get a few albums on at a time, (just enough for my needs), so I have no real need to use a screen to navigate betweens tracks - that said, the ability to 'skip album/playlist' would be a very nice addition indeed..

:confused: Thinking about it - could this be achieved with a software tweak? - as it is, pressing play 3 times in quick succession returns you to the first track, perhaps pressing ff three times quickly could skip an album? (which I guess is fine until you want to get to the third track of an album quickly and end up skippiing albums, but you know what I mean..:rolleyes:

[Shaun.P]

I'm in the market for a new iPod.

I have a 4GB iPod mini, which I have had for over a year. It is in excellent condition as it has always had an iSkin on. However the battery isn't what it used to be. I used it with a casette adapter to listen to music in my car. I have been thinking of buying a new iPod for listening to music not in the car, and keeping my mini for car use. However the iPod I would be most likely to buy is the 1GB nano, or at a stretch the 2GB nano (my entire library is 717MB / 162 songs).

I feel the Shuffle is too cheap looking (they should make the case brushed metal instead of cheap plastic) and it's really annoying having to skip a load of songs to get to one specific song you want to listen too! It is OK for people who just want to listen to music without playlist, but if you have playlist it can be annoying.

I think I am going to wait a little while as there might be some new iPod releases round the corner.

[bobber205]

I consider myself to be a faily average consumber, and I don't much of a huge reason to buy a Shuffle. I'm planning on getting a Nano, the lowest model, and just getting a good screen protector to make it tough as nails.

Though whatever Apple does is ok by me.

[Pancake]

I agree with those saying the shuffle is the best for working out. I hate the idea of lugging a spinning hard drive on and off gym equipment. I also like it as a replacement for a USB thumbdrive.

[ClarkeB]

That's why there's the iPod nano, which people consistently forget has flash memory.

[Pancake]

That's why there's the iPod nano, which people consistently forget has flash memory.

That's true, but the Nano still doesn't work as well as a thumbdrive since you need the cable.

[telecomm]

That's true, but the Nano still doesn't work as well as a thumbdrive since you need the cable.

As I understand it, the Nano doesn't work at all as a thumb drive. Someone correct me if I'm wrong on this.

[zen.state]

As I understand it, the Nano doesn't work at all as a thumb drive. Someone correct me if I'm wrong on this.

think you're right

[Silicon Jedi]

Shuffles just work.

Just autofill from a playlist, play music I like randomly at me, then update play counts and such in I-Tunes.

And the UI is perfect for what it is designed to do. PERFECT.
It works in the dark in the car. I leave it in my shirt pocket and tap it to control it...

[Agent Smith]

I love my Shuffle more than my 3G iPod, for the simple reason that it is uber-portable. The Nano is neat in that it is thin and has a screen, but given the choice between a Nano and a Shuffle, Shuffle all the way. That and the fact that it doubles as a flash drive just increases its utility.

[Riverrafter21]

I love my shuffle and use it all the time...I would like to see it stay around, as I would prefer not to take my 5g ipod to the gym and out in the woods

[kugino]

needed a thumb drive for my new MB :)

so i ordered a refurb 1GB shuffle...with the $50 ipod rebate, it cost me $30 for the shuffle...not too shabby. my wife has a nano and a shuffle...she uses her shuffle while working out and her nano while commuting. each has their uses...

[JQW]

It may explain why Audible have been giving iPod Shuffles away free to new subscribers to their service for the past few months.

[jagolden]

The Nano is very tiny, almost as small as the Shuffle, and like the Shuffle it has no HD and is safe for shocks during exercise.

But the price point is important. If the Shuffle goes, a new Shuffle/Nano/something will replace it.

(And Spymac was once reliable for rumors? I take MR's word for it but all I remember is iWalk :o )

In size and shape the Shuffle and Nano are completely different.
The shuffle is bare bones smplicity. No need to see it to operate it.
Play/pause, foward/back, volume up/down.

The design and construction make it the sturdiest iPod. I'd like to see the Nano survive a night or two of me rolling around on it while I sleep!

A 1 or 2 line screen so I can see what I'm choosing would be nice but not necessary.

With the 2 gig Nano, you have to perform at least basic navigation just to get to play.

[milo]

The Shuffle was the only iPod with transcode-on-the-fly ability from iTunes. I hap hoped this ability would be added to the other iPods as well. Conversely, Apple are pulling the only iPod which had this ability...

But sadly, the shuffle is missing other features for no good reason. You can't have podcasts go to your shuffle automatically?? You can't even put podcasts on with autofill, you can only do it manually.

The competition has devices that work with cheaply available external storage and that have some form of display, in the same price range. The capacity issue will become more and more important, given the plummetting price of flash memory.

Really? What mp3 players can you get for $69?

I'll still take connectivity with iTunes over a screen any day.

[cadillac cactus]

I've been waiting for this new lineup to take effect since the 1GB Nano was released, so really no surprise here.

Just a guess, but I'm thinking the lineup will end up being something like this:
iPod Nano 1GB (Shuffle Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 2GB (Shuffle Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 6GB (Current Nano Line Replacement)
iPod Nano 8GB (Current Nano Line Replacement)
"iPod AV" 60GB (Current 5G Line Replacement)
"iPod AV" 80GB (Current 5G Line Replacement)

Again, just a guess, but I could see it working out nicely actually. :)

i doubt they would leave a gap that large. i could see something like what youve proposed, only leaving the 5g ipods in the mix as well.

[gman71882]

Doubt its gonna happen... its just gonna get updated with a LCD display and the same form factor.
Apple will keep a bottom line MP3 player out there. its a great second purchase as well as a gift at that price. cant beat it.

[octoberdeath]

no they should just make it cheaper so more people buy it as a jumpdrive with the added bonus of playing music. start selling the 512 for like $30 and the 1Gb for like $50 and people would be buying them like hot cakes!! i would go and buy a couple of them to give away as gifts. gosh that $69 price doesn't seem to bad...but talk about really flying off the shelfs for $30.

[Pancake]

no they should just make it cheaper so more people buy it as a jumpdrive with the added bonus of playing music. start selling the 512 for like $30 and the 1Gb for like $50 and people would be buying them like hot cakes!! i would go and buy a couple of them to give away as gifts. gosh that $69 price doesn't seem to bad...but talk about really flying off the shelfs for $30.

I agree they would fly off the shelves, but I think that price would make the Nano look too expensive and hurt sales for it.

[octoberdeath]

I agree they would fly off the shelves, but I think that price would make the Nano look too expensive and hurt sales for it.


well thats when they could release the new price point for all the nanos and release larger capacity ones to complete the pricing tier. so the 1GB nano would be $100 and then go up from there. that would mean people would pay a premium for haveing a screen and click wheel.

[Slilock]

Interestingly, the Shuffle's got the best sound quality of the lot. Hope the other iPods catch up in this respect.

This is true. I love my 512MB Shuffle!

[peharri]

Really? What mp3 players can you get for $69?

Take a look on Amazon.com. That kind of price range seems to be dominated with 512Mb-1G units, with screens and frequently removable storage.

Sample 1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009F3SGE/sr=1-11/qid=1148662377/ref=sr_1_11/102-8708674-8244159?%5Fencoding=UTF8&s=electronics)
Sample 2 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00083XXQM/sr=1-13/qid=1148662377/ref=sr_1_13/102-8708674-8244159?%5Fencoding=UTF8&s=electronics)
Sample 3 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CP33Q6/sr=1-14/qid=1148662377/ref=sr_1_14/102-8708674-8244159?%5Fencoding=UTF8&s=electronics)
Sample 4 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BP50AY/sr=8-6/qid=1148662213/ref=pd_bbs_6/102-8708674-8244159?%5Fencoding=UTF8)


I'll still take connectivity with iTunes over a screen any day.

Well, YMMV. In the mean time, I certainly hope Apple can replace the Shuffle with something more competitive. Flash prices keep dropping, it's not hard to see them increasing the capacity of the iPod nanos, and then, perhaps, coming up with a sub-$100 model that replaces the Shuffle. Integration with iTunes and a decent screen. Though still likely no removable battery or external storage. Probably "good enough" though to sell on style and brand alone.

[ikonq]

Its just great for running and theres no real alternative on the iPod line for those interested in using it for excerise. It will stay.

Except of course, the iPod Nano with the Nike Kit. That's biting at the Shuffle's market.

[sushi]

I, for one, would like to see the Shuffle stay around... It's a thumb drive with music capabilities how I see it :) . Nano is too big for thumb-drive, and you'd have to carry a cable.
Exactly.

I hope to see a bigger Shuffle so their is more space for the thumb drive and music. Maybe a 2GB version?

BTW, the Shuffle is so cool because of it's simplicity and ease of use. Plus, as you stated, you don't have to carry a cable to use it as a Thumb drive.

[sushi]

You forget the Mom factor. Not being a geek something like scrolling through menus and playlists and all is too confusing for her (and other non technoids). Let's face it - she still carries a cassette deck cuz it's easy.

A shuffle with a big PLAY button is jsut what she needs.
You bring up a very good point.

The Nano and Video iPod require the user to actually handle the device and to select what they want. This is not always easy or convenient. Take skiing. Unless you are rich and can afford a special iPod jacket with the built in buttons, most folks have to take out the iPod (Nano or Video) and use bare finders to control it.

The Shuffle on the other hand, allows for very easy control as the buttons are easy to select even through an exercise or ski jacket.

Different iPods lend themselves to different activities.

Plus, I like the Shuffles display. It has all the info that I need and is easier to use than a Nano or Video iPod. Note I am joking, but in reality iTunes does make it easy to load and control your Shuffle.

[sushi]

In size and shape the Shuffle and Nano are completely different.
This is why I like the Shuffle for athletic activities. It is so much easier to hold with sweaty hands than a Nano.

Plus, the controls are rock solid and can work with gloves or with bare fingers.

[madmaxmedia]

I own a 5G 30GB iPod, and got a used shuffle on the cheap for many of the reasons people have posted. It's easy to use, you don't have to look at it to use it.

The iPod click wheel is the best interface ever, but you have to be careful when you reach for your iPod, so you don't mess up the volume, etc. I understand you can use the hold switch, but it can all be a hassle if you're doing something while listening to music.

With the Shuffle, you can feel for the buttons and pause/skip/etc. without looking at it. The lanyard is also handy, and you don't have to worry about scratching it up, etc. Finally, my listening habits actually change for the better, because I have set up a bunch of smart lists that I randomly autofill on my Shuffle. (of course I can basically do the same with my regular iPod, but the autofill feature is easy to use and for the Shuffle only.)

I'd consider a cheap flash unit from another company, but will take the Shuffle's great iTunes integration over a flash player with a display from another company.

The nano will continue to increase in capacity, so there should always be room for a cheap Apple player. If anything, maybe Apple can come out with a new and improved Shuffle with a small 1-line display or something.

[johnmcboston]

It's easy to use, you don't have to look at it to use it.

Another good point. (more Mom factor) - you don't need to go for the reading glasses in order to find a playlist and start the music. :-)

[floriflee]

I love my Shuffle more than my 3G iPod, for the simple reason that it is uber-portable. The Nano is neat in that it is thin and has a screen, but given the choice between a Nano and a Shuffle, Shuffle all the way. That and the fact that it doubles as a flash drive just increases its utility.

I completely agree. Some of the big draws towards my getting a shuffle was it's cheap price, the portability factor (I just hang it around my neck, tuck it into my shirt and go running with it), and the dual use as an MP3 player/flash drive. I hate having a million different devices to clutter my space. If some of them, at least, can serve multiple purposes then I'm all for it. I hope it, or at least something like it, stays around.

[sam10685]

change the form factor of the nano at least. if ur going to discontinure the shuffle, make a 1 gig., 2 gig., 4 gig., 6 gig., and 10 gig. start the 1 gig. pricing at 99 bucks.

[jesusphreak]

They need to put an FM tuner on the shuffle.

IMO, Apple needs to update the shuffle feature-wise to something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000DZH3W0/ref=dp_return_1/103-4982821-1115835?%5Fencoding=UTF8&n=172282&s=electronics

[madmaxmedia]

I think an upgrade of some sort is in order. A 1GB Shuffle with a small screen or tuner, etc. would be preferable to a 2GB Shuffle in its current iteration. Plus, there's really no room to go up in memory anyways with the Nano.

I don't think they're going to add a FM tuner though, since none of the other iPods have them.

[SeaFox]

What I like most about my Shuffle is that it is practically disposable. If I lost it, broke it or had it stolen, I wouldn't be that upset, because it is less than $100 US.

So you wouldn't be super pissed if you lost $70? Damn, wish I could be so freewheeling with my money. $20 is about the limit for me on "damn, that was a dumb loss".


They need to put an FM tuner on the shuffle.

The full size iPods should get FM tuners and recording capability, I mean built in ones, not stupid dongle headphone/dock attachments. They had that iPod rip-off "SuperPod"? or something like that and it had an FM tuner and a voice memo recorder. Too bad Apple doesn't take a cue from their imitators on some of this stuff.

I was personally waiting for a Shuffle redesign (slimmer) and black availablity before I bought one.

[tedrjr03]

i personally like the shuffle. i like its convinence and its duribility. i think that we just need an update.

[chris200x9]

shuffle is the gateway ipod lmao :D

[milo]

So has there been any word of when there may be another ipod update? I'm about ready to get another shuffle, but if there's going to be an update any time soon I'd rather wait.

Seems like it's been a long time since any have been updated, so at least some models are probably due. Any estimates when we'll see an ipod update?

[johnmcboston]

So has there been any word of when there may be another ipod update? I'm about ready to get another shuffle, but if there's going to be an update any time soon I'd rather wait.


Well, they're going to update it as soon as you buy yours, so please buy now so the rest of us can get the new one. :-)

[zeppiecr]

Apple Introduces new U2 Ipod....black stainless steel

[zeppiecr]

08:30 06Jun2006 PRN-Apple Introduces the New U2 iPod <AAPL.O>

CUPERTINO, Calif., June 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Apple(R) today
introduced the new iPod(R) U2 Special Edition as part of a continued
partnership between Apple, U2 and Universal Music Group (UMG). The new U2 iPod
is based on the fifth generation 30GB iPod and holds up to 7,500 songs,
25,000 photos or over 75 hours of video and features a distinctive, all-black
stainless steel enclosure, red Click Wheel and custom engraving of U2 band
member signatures. U2 iPod customers will also receive 30 minutes of exclusive
U2 video downloadable from the iTunes(R) Music Store. The new U2 iPod is
available immediately for $329.
"We're thrilled to continue working with one of the greatest bands in the
world to bring U2 fans a special edition of the world's best digital music
player," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of worldwide iPod Product
Marketing. "With its distinctive new design, including an all-black stainless
steel enclosure, the new U2 iPod is sure to be a hit."
Featuring seamless integration with the iTunes Music Store and the iTunes
digital music jukebox, the new U2 iPod features Apple's patent pending
Auto-Sync technology that automatically downloads digital music, podcasts,
photos, audiobooks, home movies, music videos and popular television shows
onto the iPod and keeps them up-to-date whenever the iPod is plugged into a
Mac(R) or Windows computer using USB 2.0. The new U2 iPod features up to
14 hours of battery life for music playback.*
Pricing & Availability
The new 30GB U2 iPod is available immediately for a suggested retail price
of $329 (US) through the Apple Store(R) (www.apple.com), Apple's retail stores
and Apple Authorized Resellers. The new U2 iPod includes earbud headphones,
USB 2.0 cable, a case and dock insert. U2 iPod customers will also receive a
coupon for 30 minutes of exclusive U2 video content downloadable from the
iTunes Music Store.**

[sushi]

With the Shuffle, you can feel for the buttons and pause/skip/etc. without looking at it.
This is a big plus in my book.

So easy to use while skiing, running, etc. because you don't have to look at it to do the major functions.

I used to have a very nice MP3 player, with AM/FM tuner, but it was a pain to use. I had to look at the screen each time to make sure I selected what I wanted to do.

The Shuffle is so much more convenient.

[zen.state]

This is a big plus in my book.

So easy to use while skiing, running, etc. because you don't have to look at it to do the major functions.

I used to have a very nice MP3 player, with AM/FM tuner, but it was a pain to use. I had to look at the screen each time to make sure I selected what I wanted to do.

The Shuffle is so much more convenient.

I agree 100%

[ezekielrage_99]

I love my iPod Shuffle, but I do have to admit there are people out there who hate it. I hope Apple doesn't get rid of the Shuffle, it does have a good place in the iPod line (for sporty people), instead they should look at updating the Shuffle in some way.

[sushi]

I hope Apple doesn't get rid of the Shuffle
If they do, I am buying a spare, or two, since I like mine so much.

[twistedlegato]

good...i always thought that the ipod shuffle was very pointless....thank you apple;)

[leekohler]

This is a big plus in my book.

So easy to use while skiing, running, etc. because you don't have to look at it to do the major functions.

I used to have a very nice MP3 player, with AM/FM tuner, but it was a pain to use. I had to look at the screen each time to make sure I selected what I wanted to do.

The Shuffle is so much more convenient.

I agree. That's why I bought one. I have no interest in any other iPod. Even the nano isn't as convenient for me as the Shuffle. I'll keep my Shuffle for as long as I can. :)

[Stashie]

Ooooo, a waterproof shuffle - I like that! It's only a matter of time, kinda like the sport series of walkmans sony used to make...

as a rooflayer who has worn out to shuffles the last year (yeah, they are great!), i would instantly buy a couple of these.

gotta have my punk rock while i'm working, and actually i think the shuffle sounds better than my nano.

:)

[weckart]

gotta have my punk rock while i'm working, and actually i think the shuffle sounds better than my nano.

:)

Ditto. I have a 2G mini, a 5G iPod and the Shuffle. The Shuffle is pretty much the only one I use these days, and it is down to the sound quality. The nano sounds meh, about as bad as the iPod mini.

[know-it-all5]

shuffles are not going anywhere. they are too popular to be discontinued. i think that by january of 07 there will be 4 models of ipods.

1.Updated shuffles- maybe a bit different, likely little changes.

2. Updated Nanos- more space for songs (2gb,4gb, 8gb)

3. Current Video Ipod- No updates (maybe better battery) (will be discontinued 2nd quarter of 2007.

4. The Next Ipod- Bigger screen, more space, higher price tag.( maybe a little more focused on video than the current vpod.)

[bowens]

I hope they don't get rid of the shuffle. I love my 1 gig. It's so small I can just carry it in my pocket anywhere I go. Also, I can feel the buttons so I can adjust volume or change songs without having to take it out of my pocket.

[Loge]

shuffles are not going anywhere. they are too popular to be discontinued.

Remember the iPod mini?

[JackSYi]

They might be replaced with something similar not probably won't be discontinued all together. Or maybe I'm wrong.

[weg]

Waterproof would be a cool feature. I just wonder if there is a big enough market.

Wonder how they'd make the headphones waterproof..

[Tom B.]

On the refurbished store in the US you can buy a 512MB iPod Shuffle for $49 with a free armband or external battery pack worth $29. This could be a sign that there is not long left for the shuffle. But I really hope that there is a new shuffle coming out instead of it just being replaced by the nano.

Also, today the UK refurbished store has just stopped selling all previous iPods (mini, 3G, 4G, photo). :(

[BackInTheSaddle]

On the refurbished store in the US you can buy a 512MB iPod Shuffle for $49 with a free armband or external battery pack worth $29.

Dang! Didn't see these before...think I'll git me one. :-)

[JosiahPB]

I think the shuffle is either a love/hate relationship. Personally, I don't like them even though I LOVE full sized iPods. Anyone feel the same way?

[celebrian23]

I'm going to buy one in a month or so. I need something I can run with because I lack the motivation to run without music and I can't jog without my 30GB ipod. :( :( :p shuffles rock

[reubs]

My wife just bought a shuffle yesterday, and we're charging it/loading it up right now. I'm eager to hear her opinion as this is our first foray into the Apple world. I may pick up my own shuffle if this one works out for her.

[LBmacman]

I doubt that they will dicontinue the shuffle, because it is an excellent piece of harware. But I hope they will make a black one- that would be kick-ass :cool:

[reubs]

My wife just bought a shuffle yesterday, and we're charging it/loading it up right now. I'm eager to hear her opinion as this is our first foray into the Apple world. I may pick up my own shuffle if this one works out for her.

I think the jury's back on my wife's new shuffle, and she loves it. She swore iPods off early on but she couldn't resist the opportunity to pick one up earlier this week. It's got me looking into a refurbed one as well so I won't have to lug around a 60 gig all the time.

[sushi]

Remember the iPod mini?
That's a good question.

Was the Mini discountinued?

Or, was the Mini replaced by the Nano?

If you believe the second opinion, then I would say that the Shuffle concept will be around for a while. Maybe in a new form factor but still around.

[JosiahPB]

I believe the Mini was replaced by the Nano...