iPod Shuffle Updated

[MacRumors]

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

Steve Jobs today unveiled a redesigned iPod Shuffle (http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/). The new shuffle resembles the iPod Remote control, and features a clip for easy wearability. The new model also features a USB 2.0 "dock" connector, which is required for connecting to a computer for synchronization and charging.

The shuffle will be available in one 1GB model for US $79, and will ship in October.

[spicyapple]

Definitely getting one! Thanks for the live update MR. :)

[Adamo]

Amazing price for the Shuffle, especially in comparison to the older models. Just like the new Nanos, hopefully we've got some more news on updated MacBooks and whatnot!

[CiBoys]

WOOOOOOOOOW :D


http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/09/shuffle.jpg

[WildCowboy]

Very cool redesign...love the way the jack was incorporated into the hinge for the clip.

Just when you think they can't make iPods any smaller...

[~Shard~]

Wow, great pirce and amazing size - well done Apple! Not in the market for one, but it's definitely a cool update!

[iGary]

I'm kind of worried about sweat getting into that thing throught the switches.

Otherwise, I would have already ordered one. My shuffle died last month.

[ebow]

Looks real nice, but it's too bad they couldn't keep the standard USB connector built-in. Also, on Apple's site it appears that one of the buttons on the top edge is labeled "Off". Is this really an off button (as the label would suggest) or is it the more common "hold" / lock button? If it's a true off button, it would be a first for any iPod (as far as I can recall).

[jsw]

It's one of those things I'm sure I'll end up buying because I can't resist it, even though I have no use for it. ;)

I love the metal case and the size.

[baleensavage]

Love the new design. My only complaint is that it is not really convenient as a flash drive any more since you have to carry around the dock with you.

[AvSRoCkCO1067]

HA! I told you so...

My comment yesterday:

So no one thinks there will be updates to the iPod Shuffle, then? :p

You all laughed. What now!? :p :p

[~Shard~]

HA! I told you so...

My comment yesterday:



You all laughed. What now!? :p :p

Nobody likes a sore winner. :p ;) :cool:

[mi5moav]

My two favorite updates of everything steve pulled out of his pocket are the shuffle...way cool and finally the itunes logo gets and update to blue(love it)

if you install itunes and then got to customize there is a phone driver that is disabled, has this always been there????

[LaMerVipere]

The iPod shuffle is actually cool looking now.

[xli_ne]

My two favorite updates of everything steve pulled out of his pocket are the shuffle...way cool and finally the itunes logo gets and update to blue(love it)


didn't it used to be blue back in the day?

[ImNoSuperMan]

I m definitely getting one. Coz I really want to get my first iPod now:o but dont want to spend my money on anything less than a full widescreen iPod. I m sure shuffle will keep me happy till then.

Really cool design BTW. Love that clip.

[~Shard~]

didn't it used to be blue back in the day?

I changed mine to a custom icon ages ago, so it doesn't reallty matter to me. ;) I know at one point it was green though (current version?) so this sounds like it's probably a minor change.

[mdntcallr]

i guess this is good for the person going out for a jog. but honestly the ipod nano is way better.

[danny_w]

Looks real nice, but it's too bad they couldn't keep the standard USB connector built-in.
Yes, I used to want a Shuffle (even though I don't need one - I have a Nano) but now there is no reason to have one (for me, that is). I'm sure it's a great improvement in many ways, but without the built-in USB connector there is now nothing special for me about it.

[MongoTheGeek]

My better half loves the design. I think its just too damn small.

[A is for Apple]

Love the new design. My only complaint is that it is not really convenient as a flash drive any more since you have to carry around the dock with you.

Love the new shuffle design, how much smaller can they make these things?!?! I feel my fat fingers might struggle.

I was thinking exactly the same thing with the convienience of the old style shuffle, was very handy for popping uni work on and what not, simple plug and go effort. shame that has gone in order to make things smaller.

cath

[marcelo002]

If they designed the nike+ to work with the new shuffle, then I would definitely consider buying it, I think this small shuffle would be a perfect running companion.

[Bregalad]

The Shuffle has gone from being useful for music and data to just a music player. Given the new size, that's not the end of the world, but it no longer appeals to me.

Apple must be making killer profit on their new iPods. I can get a high speed 4GB USB flash drive for $80 retail. They must be paying half that for flash.

[DrEasy]

Still no support for multiple playlists? How hard can it be to add an extra "mode" so that when you click on Fast Forward you go to the next playlist?

The design looks cool though, glad they resisted adding a screen. However, as someone else said, it's not going to be as practical as before using it as a USB drive.

Guess I'll stick to my old Shuffle then...

[milo]

Pretty awesome, I'd definitely get one if I didn't have a shuffle already.

Nice leak-proofing on this one, I didn't see a single shuffle rumor at any of the mac sites. Glad to see that they not only didn't dump it, but gave it a MAJOR facelift. I've always liked the shuffle, now it has a whole new life.

Now will I get gapless playback on my old shuffle?

[sartinsauce]

didn't it used to be blue back in the day?


Yeah, there was a blue version;) , and a magenta version:o, then the green version:D .

[prady16]

i looooooooove the new shuffle!

[fblack]

love the design, the size is great for jogging! i wish it was rain proof, but maybe somebody will design some kind of rain proof casing. a tiny mic+software would be nice for dictation too. :)

i worry alot about people stealing my ipod, but a small device like this at its price would overcome that.:cool:

[A is for Apple]

Yeah, there was a blue version;) , and a magenta version:o, then the green version:D .

nice touch.

cath

[Bibulous]

Love the new design. My only complaint is that it is not really convenient as a flash drive any more since you have to carry around the dock with you.

Agreed, and I know most people don't, but I would have liked a FM tuner built in.

[Solo500]

Will the clip be as good for exercising as the dorky (but useful) stringy thing?

The design made getting rid of the built in USB necessary, but what an easy thing to LOSE.

I like the previous poster's idea of multiple playlists. Just 2 (LOUD and QUIET, or Punk-rock and Ambient) would be great.

It's harder to write on aluminum with a Sharpie!

[cadillaccactus]

a stellar update, for sure.

however, it seems to be a consensus that we miss the flash drive functionality.

the old one may have been twice the size, but it essentially had the dock built in.

[Solo500]

Yeah, there was a blue version;) , and a magenta version:o, then the green version:D .

I think this is cross posted by accident. The colors refer to the iTunes logo color, not the Shuffles.

[aleck]

I'm really puzzled what you people see good at this. This is pure *****.

Apple took the best small flash-based player in the world and made it the worst. With direct USB plug, you had amazing portability, still had MP3 player and good take it wheever you want. I regularly used to transfer small files from/to work, exchange files with friends etc.
With this, I would need to carry that stupid dock as well. :mad:

So it still has no screen at all, now has no USB as well, but it has the hinge. Wow.
The worst piece of "design" ever offered by Apple. Probably designed by a person that never actually used Shuffle in real life.

[SeaFox]

Grrrrr! Of course Apple updated the Shuffle. I just bought one two weeks ago. I got mine used at least, and I got an external battery pack for my 1GB, $71.50 incl shipping on eBay.

But still, I've been waiting for almost a year now for them to release a new version. I wanted something more like the old design though, w/ the USB plug. Just thinner and in black.

[j_maddison]

Love the new shuffle design, how much smaller can they make these things?!?! I feel my fat fingers might struggle.

I was thinking exactly the same thing with the convienience of the old style shuffle, was very handy for popping uni work on and what not, simple plug and go effort. shame that has gone in order to make things smaller.

cath

I was thinking exactly the same thing. The old shuffle was an excellent data key. I'd use it for running in the morning and data during the day. I can't keep my eyes off the shiny new little thing though.

If they bring something out to protect it from the elements when I'm bouncing around the roads on those cold wet sinter mornings we have in wales, then I think my old shuffle is going to make its way to my bro, he broke his a couple of weeks ago.

Jason

[maxterpiece]

Yeah, there was a blue version;) , and a magenta version:o, then the green version:D .

yeah but none of the old ones are as glitzy as this one. the icon is approaching ghetto fabulousness.

[2nyRiggz]

The new shuffle is nice but I would lose that thing the moment I take it out of the new box...too small for me but nice design.



Bless

[jumpinjohn]

I'm really puzzled what you people see good at this. This is pure *****.

Apple took the best small flash-based player in the world and made it the worst. With direct USB plug, you had amazing portability, still had MP3 player and good take it wheever you want. I regularly used to transfer small files from/to work, exchange files with friends etc.
With this, I would need to carry that stupid dock as well. :mad:

So it still has no screen at all, now has no USB as well, but it has the hinge. Wow.
The worst piece of "design" ever offered by Apple. Probably designed by a person that never actually used Shuffle in real life.

I'm really puzzled why anyone would see this as pure ****. I use the shuffle regularly for listening to music while I exercise. Love it. This update makes it even better. I can just clip it on. (never liked the lanyard myself, although I can imagine someone else liking it...) I keep it in my gym bag.

When I need to "shuffle" files, I simply use my flash drive that I keep in my briefcase. That way everything is where I need it when I use it.

Can't wait to order one -- I'll give my shuffle to one of my boys...

See 'ya!
John

[redAPPLE]

The worst piece of "design" ever offered by Apple. Probably designed by a person that never actually used Shuffle in real life.

the 1G shuffle is a music player first. a portable data stick second. if the dock is not so big, it would not really bother me if i had to bring the dock with me. of course it could be better. maybe that would be apple's next gen shuffle. :)

[johnmcboston]

I'm also curious as to the 'waterproof-ness' of the model. if we're using it while exercising or skiing or in the garden - it's going to get rough and diry and moist. For such a small player (cool as it is) you almost need something protective on it (maybe a film product).

Wonder if the aluminum makes it have some kind of weight - the stick ones were almost too light...

[bosrs1]

the 1G shuffle is a music player first. a portable data stick second. if the dock is not so big, it would not really bother me if i had to bring the dock with me. of course it could be better. maybe that would be apple's next gen shuffle. :)
Frankly the dock doesn't bother me. I bought my old shuffle to use as a data stick but only did it twice. 512 wasn't enough for files I transfer. This new shuffle though is perfect for going to the gym which is what I use mine for now. And as I only have 200 songs in my iTunes I can fit my whole library now. This is the iPod I've been waiting for. I love it. Now if they can only come out with a true video one for my 100 movies I have in iTunes I'll be a happy dude.

[Foxglove9]

It looks pretty nice. The clip feature is definitely handy to have, especially with something that small in size.

However as nice as it is, if I had the choice right now between the 2, I would buy the old iPod Shuffle instead. Not just because I like the look of the old one better, but also the size and ability to use it as a flash drive.

[daze]

Excellent update. To think, I just bought a 2GB Nano...

[theBB]

Somebody told me the old shuffle automatically converted songs into 128kbs AAC while you are adding it to the shuffle, even if they were of a much higher bitrate or saved in another format. I wonder if the new one does the same thing. It would be nice to keep my songs ALAC on my harddisk without wasting too much memory when I add it to the shuffle, where sound quality does not matter much.

[DrEasy]

Also: when will they add Apple Lossless support? Since I can't navigate easily between many albums, might as well just store a few good-quality ones...

[BlizzardBomb]

Shuffle was the star of the show for me. Its cool factor is off the scale!

[sam10685]

THIS is unbelievable... i'm goin to get one as soon as i have money. (october 1st)

[ekalb39]

My new iPod Shuffle is not going to ship until the end of October No.....:mad:

[iGary]

Will the clip be as good for exercising as the dorky (but useful) stringy thing?

Again, I am worried about the moisture factor. The sport case was great, as it kept sweat out. Any amount of moisture through that back switch and the thing died - eventually what killed mine, I think.

I'd be hesitant to wear the thing while running in fear of sweating on it.

[ZoomZoomZoom]

I love the new shuffle look. It is an excellent design.

There shouldn't be too many complaints about it being unable to function like the old one as a USB jumpdrive. USB jumpdrives are pretty cheap now, and many of them are so small that you can put one onto your keyring without noticing it. Buy a USB flash drive for your keyring, clip your shuffle to your pants, and suddenly the old model seems incredibly bulky.

I'm just worried about the space. 1GB isn't enough for me, even though it's a "shuffle". 2GB would hit the spot just about right, though.

[analogus]

I had the old Shuffle and it was amazing, Then I sold it and got a 30 gig ipod video, which I hardly ever use to listen to music. I'm getting the new Shuffle, for sure...

[weg]

Amazing price for the Shuffle,

Yeah, $79, which is probably worth 50 Euro, so Apple will sell it in Europe for a mere 99 Euro, I guess :eek:

[Dr.Gargoyle]

I better take care of my ol' shuffle, since when it dies I have to buy a iPod and a USB memory. Not what I call evolution...

[zap2]

Sign me up..along with Green Nano..

[ImNoSuperMan]

I'm really puzzled what you people see good at this. This is pure *****.

Apple took the best small flash-based player in the world and made it the worst. With direct USB plug, you had amazing portability, still had MP3 player and good take it wheever you want. I regularly used to transfer small files from/to work, exchange files with friends etc.
With this, I would need to carry that stupid dock as well. :mad:

So it still has no screen at all, now has no USB as well, but it has the hinge. Wow.
The worst piece of "design" ever offered by Apple. Probably designed by a person that never actually used Shuffle in real life.

Get out of the box and think bout it from a music perspective. No need to compare it with the older shuffle. I`ve seen a lot of small mp3 players and none of them got me interested enough to even consider one. All I cared for was a full screen iPod. But this new shuffle is definitely cool. Not to mention it`s cheap too. No real need to worry bout losing or breaking it. It`ll keep people like me going who are interested in getting an iPod for themselves but dont want to buy until the real thing arrives (vPod). I m definitely getting one as soon as I can.

I can definitely say that it`ll sell thrice as much compared to the older shuffle. Or in case there are few more people like me then you might see it being the bestselling iPod during this Xmas.

I'm also curious as to the 'waterproof-ness' of the model. if we're using it while exercising or skiing or in the garden - it's going to get rough and diry and moist. For such a small player (cool as it is) you almost need something protective on it (maybe a film product).

Wonder if the aluminum makes it have some kind of weight - the stick ones were almost too light...

With the THING being this cheap, I`d certainly not worry bout it much.

[fixyourthinking]

In the quicktime 360 I can't see the dock ... what does it look like ... is it the same as the iPod dock on the Nano and Video?

[Jay42]

I would have rather had the same form factor shuffle, maybe in metal, with a far improved battery life. I'm sure this would not be possible at $79, but to me, this would be near perfect. I am very envious of the nano's 24 hour battery life and the old AAA battery adapter no longer works with the new shuffles. The shuffle was the perfect, lightweight solution for bringing a lot of music backpacking or climbing. And the battery adapter offered virtually unlimited battery life as long as you had AAA's. I'm still tempted to get a new one for running though.

[ZoomZoomZoom]

I better take care of my ol' shuffle, since when it dies I have to buy a iPod and a USB memory. Not what I call evolution...

Assuming that (1) you use the Shuffle as a music player and use a descent amount of its space, and (2) when using it as a jump drive, you're not storing more than 256MB, you can just get something like a 256MB Cruzer Micro for $15. Which added with the new shuffle, is probably smaller than the old shuffle. Maybe not for everyone, but I like encoding high enough, and have enough songs, that even if I used a shuffle as a jump drive, I wouldn't have much space left after my songs.

I'm not sure where my friend got one of his jump drives, but it is tiny; it's pretty much the end you stick into the USB drive plus a little stub. 128MB. Maybe it's personal preference, but I'd much rather have a tiny player + tiny flash drive than one (relatively) big shuffle.

[Multimedia]

This New iPod Shuffle Is A Work Of Art And A Definite Grand Slam Home Run Winner! Incredible. I am blown away by it more than anything else announced today. Can't wait to get mine. Wow! :) :eek:

[Multimedia]

Assuming that (1) you use the Shuffle as a music player and use a descent amount of its space, and (2) when using it as a jump drive, you're not storing more than 256MB, you can just get something like a 256MB Cruzer Micro for $15. Which added with the new shuffle, is probably smaller than the old shuffle. Maybe not for everyone, but I like encoding high enough, and have enough songs, that even if I used a shuffle as a jump drive, I wouldn't have much space left after my songs.

I'm not sure where my friend got one of his jump drives, but it is tiny; it's pretty much the end you stick into the USB drive plus a little stub. 128MB. Maybe it's personal preference, but I'd much rather have a tiny player + tiny flash drive than one (relatively) big shuffle.I paid $20 for a 2GB USB2 Flash drive last Monday at Fry's.

[brepublican]

I love the new shuffle look. It is an excellent design.
I'm not sure how I feel about the new look. Its so.... well, TINY! Reminds me of the iPod flea. Anyone remember that?

Anyhow, stuff usually has to grow on me, I guess I'm just an old school type :)

[ZoomZoomZoom]

I paid $20 for a 2GB USB2 Flash drive last Monday at Fry's.

:eek:

I'd go get one except that I wouldn't ever use about 1.75GB of those 2GB =\

[ZoomZoomZoom]

Anyhow, stuff usually has to grow on me, I guess I'm just an old school type :)

In this case, shrink, rather :p

[ebow]

What a strange little device... From what I can tell from Apple's iPod shuffle tech specs page (http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/specs.html) and the gallery (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore?family=iPodshuffle), it charges through the headphone jack. Not only that, but you put it into the dock upside down.

[ddrueckhammer]

Personally, I wish they would have just made the old one smaller...I think the old one being like a jump drive/mp3 player was pretty handy. Really besides the size and shape there is nothing new here...Too bad.

[milo]

Somebody told me the old shuffle automatically converted songs into 128kbs AAC while you are adding it to the shuffle, even if they were of a much higher bitrate or saved in another format. I wonder if the new one does the same thing. It would be nice to keep my songs ALAC on my harddisk without wasting too much memory when I add it to the shuffle, where sound quality does not matter much.

The feature is part of iTunes, so I'm sure it's still there.

My new iPod Shuffle is not going to ship until the end of October No.....:mad:

Why are you mad? That's what they announced, shipping October.

[Texas04]

It looks like that ipod Flea video that was going around a while back... it almost looks... un apple... :rolleyes: Its to.... just not what I would expect...


Edit: Beaten to the flea comment... man lol

[SactoGuy18]

I think Apple blew it with the new iPod Shuffle. They should have kept the old form factor but put in a small LCD display to show song titles and elapsed time.

[Plymouthbreezer]

I just bought a Lexar jump drive for $14 yesterday, and it fits on my keys. ;)

I'll be getting one of these new shuffles as soon as I can. Awesome little player perfect for running and school and "risky" situations where you don't want to risk even a nano sized player.

[ZoomZoomZoom]

I think Apple blew it with the new iPod Shuffle. They should have kept the old form factor but put in a small LCD display to show song titles and elapsed time.

Then get a nano? Alu exterior, even smaller than before, better battery life, small LCD display...

Unless if you're asking for something like a nano at the price of a shuffle. Then keep dreaming.

[iJawn108]

Can't say I'm a fan of the new shuffle... The lanyard on my 1g shuffle is so handy while biking to work with my hoodie on.

But the new nano................ ohhhh the new nano!!!!!!


Dear 2G Nano, I will try and buy you this weekend. Not sure what one of you but i will buy you.

[theBB]

The feature is part of iTunes, so I'm sure it's still there.

Well, it only worked for Shuffle, not the other iPods, so I am not sure. Something to check at the store in three weeks when they become available...

[iJawn108]

Personally, I wish they would have just made the old one smaller...I think the old one being like a jump drive/mp3 player was pretty handy. Really besides the size and shape there is nothing new here...Too bad.
Same... I'm glad I have my little flash/mp3 player. I've used it many many times allready. Because I allways have my shufflewith me, and draging around a little dock thing isn't really handy to me.

Kinda sucks they took away the 512 model, scrolling through 200+ songs doesn't sound like it would be fun. I get annoyed with my 512 sometimes(though I absolutely love it deerly) scrolling. I will be buying the new nano just for podcasts i think.

[theBB]

Then get a nano? Alu exterior, even smaller than before, better battery life, small LCD display...

Unless if you're asking for something like a nano at the price of a shuffle. Then keep dreaming.
I have a SanDisk player about the size of a shuffle, but with a screen, radio and voice recorder. It runs on one AAA battery. It cannot do playlists, it is only folders of mp3 and wma files. Radio almost never work indoors. It comes with in-ear headphones that are too big for my ears. The new version with 1GB capacity is selling for only $55 at Amazon. The new one even seems to have a color screen. Unless iTunes compatibility is important for you, it is not a bad deal just due to the screen. I guess Apple could add a screen and still sell shuffle for $79 or have a 1GB nano for $99.

[Jay42]

Kinda sucks they took away the 512 model, scrolling through 200+ songs doesn't sound like it would be fun. I get annoyed with my 512 sometimes(though I absolutely love it deerly) scrolling.

You could always just put fewer songs on it. Plus, the shuffle isn't really designed for finding specific songs.

[BigMack]

It appears the new Shuffle is not getting the new improved headphones. It was not specifically mentioned in the presentation today (unlike with the regular iPod and Nano), and pics at the Apple store show it with the older design. But the new headphones are sold separately for about $30. If they are indeed improved, seems like a must to me, but the extra expense pushes the price above $100. Very disappointing Apple's not replacing them across the entire line.

[bosrs1]

I better take care of my ol' shuffle, since when it dies I have to buy a iPod and a USB memory. Not what I call evolution...
Hardly a problem. You can get a new shuffle and a 1 gig USB jump drive for alot less then the old 1 gig shuffle cost.

[bosrs1]

I think Apple blew it with the new iPod Shuffle. They should have kept the old form factor but put in a small LCD display to show song titles and elapsed time.
That's what the nano is for...

[bosrs1]

I have a SanDisk player about the size of a shuffle, but with a screen, radio and voice recorder. It runs on one AAA battery. It cannot do playlists, it is only folders of mp3 and wma files. Radio almost never work indoors. It comes with in-ear headphones that are too big for my ears. The new version with 1GB capacity is selling for only $55 at Amazon. The new one even seems to have a color screen. Unless iTunes compatibility is important for you, it is not a bad deal just due to the screen. I guess Apple could add a screen and still sell shuffle for $79 or have a 1GB nano for $99.
Bet your Sandisk player isn't as small as the new shuffle...

[ddrueckhammer]

Hardly a problem. You can get a new shuffle and a 1 gig USB jump drive for alot less then the old 1 gig shuffle cost.
Yeah but who wants to keep up with 2 when you could just buy one?

[bosrs1]

Yeah but who wants to keep up with 2 when you could just buy one?
When together they're smaller then the one? Me! Plus I can use both at the same time ;)

[dhc]

I think the new shuffle is great looking, and I'm going to buy one and hand down my 512 shuffle to my son. However, if I had to find something to complaint about:

- Personally, I'd rather have seen it WITHOUT the clip. My shuffle always sits in a pocket when in use, so I'd rather sacrifice the clip for a slightly thinner(!) shape (though with the headphone socket, maybe this was as thin as they could go anyhow.)

- Having compared the pictures of the new shape to my existing shuffle, I'm beginning to think that keeping the unit in 'portrait' orientation rather than 'landscape' would have been better for 'in the hand' controlling. Effectively rotating the control pad through 90 degrees clockwise. I just think it might sit better in the hand. That said, I imagine most people want the clip and will use the unit when it's attached to clothing, so this makes sense, in this case.

Meh. There's just no pleasing some people ;)

[ZoomZoomZoom]

Yeah but who wants to keep up with 2 when you could just buy one?

Tiny flash drive can go on the keyring, so effectively it doesn't feel like you're carrying two. (Really, after seeing how my friend did his, it looks like he just has an extra key wherever he goes.)

As for the clip, I wish that it were removeable. Although, with the thinness, it doesn't matter too much. Just a minor detail.

[QUOTE=theBB]I have a SanDisk player about the size of a shuffle, but with a screen, radio and voice recorder. It runs on one AAA battery. It cannot do playlists, it is only folders of mp3 and wma files. Radio almost never work indoors. It comes with in-ear headphones that are too big for my ears. The new version with 1GB capacity is selling for only $55 at Amazon. The new one even seems to have a color screen. Unless iTunes compatibility is important for you, it is not a bad deal just due to the screen. I guess Apple could add a screen and still sell shuffle for $79 or have a 1GB nano for $99.[/QUOTE

I'm actually a bit interested in this. Mind posting a link? My brother's been wanting something like this, and I think I might get this for his birthday over a shuffle because he likes having a screen.

[syclone]

...for everyone complaining about the lack of a usb plug - the usb is in the headphones plug - seems to me someone will come out with some sort of headphones with a usb plug in them soon enough. anyway, I always thought the old shuffle was useless as a flash drive - it was too big to fit in a lot of usb ports - and even this new design is physically huge compared to some of the latest sticks (you can put a sony microvault tiny anywhere - ive actually stuck it in my shoe and forgotten about it) and too small in the memory department - has anyone seen how cheap 2gb drives are these days? Finally, I can't imagine it comparing in the file transfer speed department.

[faustfire]

Somebody told me the old shuffle automatically converted songs into 128kbs AAC while you are adding it to the shuffle, even if they were of a much higher bitrate or saved in another format. I wonder if the new one does the same thing. It would be nice to keep my songs ALAC on my harddisk without wasting too much memory when I add it to the shuffle, where sound quality does not matter much.


Yea it should, I thing that is more of a software option than a hardware one. I only have a shuffle but it seems like that option would work for import on all the ipod models.

[ChrisA]

Just when you think they can't make iPods any smaller...

I think the G3 shuffle will be built right into the little earbuds. No wires. Beats me how you'd control it. Maybe tap it with a finger? Untill it disapears completely there is always room to make it smaller.

Don't laugh. Someone must have said once "how smal can theymake eyeglasses? then they invented contact lenses and then laser surgury. Poof the glasses disappered.

All I reayy want to see however is for the wire to be gone in the next revision.

[theBB]

I'm actually a bit interested in this. Mind posting a link? My brother's been wanting something like this, and I think I might get this for his birthday over a shuffle because he likes having a screen.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EUCMWK/ref=pd_rvi_gw_2/102-7361148-1820932?ie=UTF8

[theBB]

Bet your Sandisk player isn't as small as the new shuffle...
It does not have a clip, either. :)

Basically it comes down to iTunes compatibility vs. screen, as FM radio barely works and I have never used the voice recorder.

[theBB]

Yea it should, I thing that is more of a software option than a hardware one. I only have a shuffle but it seems like that option would work for import on all the ipod models.
Oh, you should check some of the threads here. A lot of people are quite ticked off that iTunes does not let that function work for any other iPod.

[QCassidy352]

IMO this is the most amazing release from apple in quite some time. As a runner, I'm frankly blown away by this. I have a nano already, but this is awesome.

[ZoomZoomZoom]

I think the G3 shuffle will be built right into the little earbuds. No wires. Beats me how you'd control it. Maybe tap it with a finger? Untill it disapears completely there is always room to make it smaller.

Don't laugh. Someone must have said once "how smal can theymake eyeglasses? then they invented contact lenses and then laser surgury. Poof the glasses disappered.

All I reayy want to see however is for the wire to be gone in the next revision.

That would be cool. iPod Shuffle (USB stick) -> iPod Shuffle (clip) -> iPod Shuffle (earbuds) -> iPod Shuffle ear implants.

[wattage]

It cracks me up how people start critiquing as soon as new products are released. The shuffle is our favorite thing announced today. When we got home tonight from San Fran we immediately checked the website and were very excited when we saw the new shuffle.

Perfect for fitness, so small and light. The bulkiest part will be the cords.

LOVE IT

[Cygnus311]

A great runner's iPod. You could actually clip this thing to the back of your hat on a non-fitted hat or the brim, get some really short headphone cords, and it would be like not wearing anything at all...in terms of an iPod. :D

[macklos]

That would be cool. iPod Shuffle (USB stick) -> iPod Shuffle (clip) -> iPod Shuffle (earbuds) -> iPod Shuffle ear implants.

Add a glowing apple logo implant into my neck along with brain to ipod control and I'm so there. :rolleyes:

[Platform]

I like the little thing, especially at the price point....;)

[liketom]

my shuffles got a date !


IPOD SHUFFLE 1G-2ND GEN-ZTT
MA564ZT/A

Oct 31, 2006 Nov 2, 2006

£46.81

£46.81
SubTotal: £46.81
Tax: £8.19
Shipping Charge: £0.00
Total: £55.00

[April Dancer]

Yeah but who wants to keep up with 2 when you could just buy one?

I have to agree. I know it's not a big deal but I use my Shuffle primarily as a flash drive. It plugs in my computer when I get to work and I work from it. But I also keep enough tracks on it to bail me out on my journey home should its big iPod brother run out of battery power (I'm not very good at charging!). I wouldn't buy a new Shuffle just for music as it wouldn't get used enough but the music capability was handy to have.

Having said that, I love the new look. :)

[thegreatluke]

THIS IS REALLY COOL! :)

Too bad the iPod Pequena is right around the corner...

[mi5moav]

This is great!!! This is why Apple is such a great company, They run their business as maruding pirates with soul.... anyhoooow.

Can someone check to see that at about 7 seconds into the preview of "Three Moons over Milford" that the lady isn't running with the new shuffle, that would be crazy, I'm thinking it's the FM transmitter but looks way to silver to be.

oh... pilot episode... can be seen by all on preview clip on itunes.

[Multimedia]

Wow! Talk about amazing innovation. I think the ability to have 38 characters engraved on the back of every iPod Shuffle ordered from the Apple Online Store FOR FREE is amazing. Imagine being able to engrave your name and phone number for example:

Return Reward Tom Jones 555.555.4093

36 characters

Lot of incentive to buy online to get that free engraving to personalize every one of them. I love it. :)

Also find it amazing and innovative that the audio out headphone jack triples as a recharge and data port as well. Never seen a headphone jack do so much all in one before now.

[milo]

Anyone have a software update for their 1G shuffle?

I really want gapless playback and skip count/last skipped.

[guffman]

Not until November 7th? Ugh. :(

[jholzner]

Hardly a problem. You can get a new shuffle and a 1 gig USB jump drive for alot less then the old 1 gig shuffle cost.

Or just pick up a refurb shuffle from the online Apple Store. They still gottem. The even have iPod minis there still so I'm sure the shuffle will be available as a refurb item for some time to come.

[scott523]

Anyone have a software update for their 1G shuffle?

I really want gapless playback and skip count/last skipped.

I don't know if the skip count feature exists in iPods but I do know only iPods support gapless playback (for now I hope).

Is this really an off button (as the label would suggest) or is it the more common "hold" / lock button? If it's a true off button, it would be a first for any iPod (as far as I can recall).

From looking at the photos, it has an Off switch and it seems like the battery indicator is pressable even though it looks like you can't. Also keep in mind the iPod shuffle plays the same way as its predecessor so that means holding the pause/play button = hold button.

[steviem]

Has anyone else noticed its resemblance to the Remote/FM Radio for the 5G iPod...

[dhc]

Not until November 7th? Ugh. :(

Hmm.. Released date on this (http://www.play.com/Electronics/Electronics/RGNCS/3-/1612725/New_Apple_iPod_Shuffle_1GB_Silver/Product.html#) site is 01/10/06, I guess that doesn't guarantee they'll have any in stock on that day, but seems considerably sooner than Nov 7th..:confused:

[Cowinacape]

This one of those things I DON'T need, but really want :D the miniscule size blows my mind, very cool....oopppps better sign me up for two of them, the misses wants one to :D

[daze]

This one of those things I DON'T need, but really want :D the miniscule size blows my mind, very cool....oopppps better sign me up for two of them, the misses wants one to :D
Same feeling here. But I much like an iPod with a display si I know what I am listening to. :D

[Mechcozmo]

The USB ports on my PowerBook are about .25" tall. The Shuffle is .41" tall, but that is roughly half and half clip and player. If we call it .20" of player... the new Shuffle is too small to support a direct USB-->USB port connection.

Now, USB cable that goes mini-B to female might have worked, as those are an 1/8th of an inch wide at the mini-B part (mini-B, BTW, is what most cameras have as their USB connections. Check Linkety (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB) for info)

Anyway, simple fact of the matter is that the Shuffle is now too small for a built-in connector and a port for a mini-B cable may have taken up too much space or just been impractical to include. (I don't believe mini-B can provide power, or enough of it.)

[CyberB0b]

Has anyone else noticed its resemblance to the Remote/FM Radio for the 5G iPod...

Yes. I was in the airport and saw a guy walk by and I was about to stop him and yell "How the hell did you get the new iPod Shuffle already?!?!" but then I noticed the extra wire comming out of the bottom of it and going into his bag. Oh yeah, it's a remote. :o

[HecubusPro]

Wow! Talk about amazing innovation. I think the ability to have 38 characters engraved on the back of every iPod Shuffle ordered from the Apple Online Store FOR FREE is amazing. Imagine being able to engrave your name and phone number for example:

Return Reward Tom Jones 555.555.4093

36 characters

Lot of incentive to buy online to get that free engraving to personalize every one of them. I love it. :)

Also find it amazing and innovative that the audio out headphone jack triples as a recharge and data port as well. Never seen a headphone jack do so much all in one before now.

I've always though engraving was kind of intriguing, but I generally don't keep my iPods (of various makes/models) for very long. I end up selling them and then getting a newer version eventually (usually skipping a generation before considering the next.) It seems like engraving would be profit prohibitive when trying to resell an iPod--at least the resale value might decrease as a result of a personalized engraving.

Of course, you could always simply hold that little bit of information to yourself, but hopefully the conservative Christian won't mind too much when he purchases a used iPod with the engraving "Hail Satan" stenciled on the back. :D

[YoNeX]

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/7315/oct11eg7.png
Source: Amazon (http://www.amazon.com:80/dp/B000EPJL1A)

Release date for the new Shuffle? :D

[Caitlyn]

Gee, I hope it's October 11th. That isn't too far away. :) That is also a Wednesday and Apple seems to be liking Wednesdays lately.

[zwida]

Oct 11 works with what they told me at the Apple store: "We'll have them in-store in early to mid October."

It's good for my wallet that they didn't have a rack of them in-store on Thursday...

[MattyMac]

Oct 11 works with what they told me at the Apple store: "We'll have them in-store in early to mid October."

It's good for my wallet that they didn't have a rack of them in-store on Thursday...


Just ordered my shuffle online and it says that the estimated ship date is October 31st and the estimated arrival date is November 7th:(

...I'm still excited though!

[HecubusPro]

I'm tempted to go ahead and get rid of my current 512MB shuffle and get this one when it comes out. It's so darned cute.

[zack.williams]

if you look at the apple store, the picture with the new shuffle and the earphones show the old earphones ones..didnt steve say they are coming out with new earphones? as shown on the apple store with the nano? i wonder if the shuffle gets the old ones still...hmmmm

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wo/0.RSLID?mco=7F013154&nclm=iPodshuffle

[MattyMac]

if you look at the apple store, the picture with the new shuffle and the earphones show the old earphones ones..didnt steve say they are coming out with new earphones? as shown on the apple store with the nano? i wonder if the shuffle gets the old ones still...hmmmm

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wo/0.RSLID?mco=7F013154&nclm=iPodshuffle
Steve never said the shuffle was coming with the new earbuds...however he did make it clear that they were coming with the other new iPods:(

I am wondering the same thing...guess we will have to wait and find out.

[HecubusPro]

Steve never said the shuffle was coming with the new earbuds...however he did make it clear that they were coming with the other new iPods:(

I am wondering the same thing...guess we will have to wait and find out.

There hasn't been an apple headphone/earbud I've liked yet. As soon as I buy new iPods, I instantly ditch the earbuds they ship with the product (or give them away) and get something better.

[b0x]

According to iLounge they'll be shipping with the new earbuds!

[gri]

:cool: I'm really puzzled what you people see good at this. This is pure *****.

Apple took the best small flash-based player in the world and made it the worst. With direct USB plug, you had amazing portability, still had MP3 player and good take it wheever you want. I regularly used to transfer small files from/to work, exchange files with friends etc.
With this, I would need to carry that stupid dock as well. :mad:

So it still has no screen at all, now has no USB as well, but it has the hinge. Wow.
The worst piece of "design" ever offered by Apple. Probably designed by a person that never actually used Shuffle in real life.

I have an 1st generation shuffle and an black 4G Nano. Love both, each for its own settings (Nano on long trips, shuffle on short ones and lab-work). However, I used to have the shuffle in my shirts pocket with the effect that whenever I am bending over to pick something up or so it falls out. So, I love the hinges - and it got smaller too. Granted, no dock (would have been nice) but I usually use a Memory stick anyway so no real loss here (and I still have my old shuffle).:p

[bendejo]

I've always though engraving was kind of intriguing, but I generally don't keep my iPods (of various makes/models) for very long. I end up selling them and then getting a newer version eventually (usually skipping a generation before considering the next.) It seems like engraving would be profit prohibitive when trying to resell an iPod--at least the resale value might decrease as a result of a personalized engraving.

Of course, you could always simply hold that little bit of information to yourself, but hopefully the conservative Christian won't mind too much when he purchases a used iPod with the engraving "Hail Satan" stenciled on the back. :D

Engraving can be very neat. My wife got me a 4gig Nano for a wedding present a year ago with a personal quote and the wedding date engraved. The whole point is to get something that won't be resold but rather becomes something to hold onto... and that is a step towards building brand loyalty. Before meeting me my wife never touched a Mac or Apple product, but now because of the little extra touches Apple provides that set their designs above the rest she is gravitating towards Apple products. As someone once said, customer satisfation is meaningless, it's brand loyalty that matters.

[Chris Bangle]

I love the buttons on the top of the Shuffle... One of the best details ive ever seen on anything..... but £50ish, far too much for 1gig so im gonna buy a blue nano...:) :) :) :)

[trajan]

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/7315/oct11eg7.png
Source: Amazon (http://www.amazon.com:80/dp/B000EPJL1A)

Release date for the new Shuffle? :D
when i ordered from the apple store online, the receipt said: ship Oct. 31 and arrive Nov. 7....
but i am thinking (more hoping) that with Apple's general release date of 'October' that they are defaulting to the end of the month to cover their butts.
that gives them the leeway to extend release dates if something goes awry and if things go well & they ship sooner than expected, then Apple will have some pleasantly surprised customers.... those are just my thoughts.

it's too bad, because when i heard 'October' i assumed Oct. 1... i should have known...

but amazon is a pretty reliable source and the 11th is MUCH better than the 31st... i am on board and very hopeful that this is indeed the actual release date :)

[mandoman]

I love almost everything about the new design - small size, clip, and aluminum, but I HATE not having the usb connector built in. Last thing I need is another stupid cable/dock. Firewire to ipod cable, usb to ipod cable, cell phone charger, usb to mini usb for camera, etc, etc - Ugh, when will the cable madness end! The beauty of the old design was that it was all in one.

So, I spent my $50 ipod battery settlement towards a refurb 1st gen 1GB shuffle... I did consider a nano, but I really want the autofill feature of the shuffle. Can't wait to get it!

[b0x]

Are we any closer to a ship date for the new iPod Shuffles? It's mid October and I want my new toy!

[trajan]

earlier, i commented on a post, which showed Amazon shipping the new ipod shuffle on the 11th of october... and well, since that is today, i checked back on amazon's site and this is what i found.... :(

http://www.ross-fischer.com/picture2.png

they moved their date from the 11th to the 31st

i know that it is not really that much later and i don't mean to be complaining... i just can't wait to have that cool, little device!

anyway, sitting here crossing my fingers & hoping for an expedited shipping date! :) :) :)

[scott523]

Wow, Steve Jobs really lied about the iPod shuffle shipping in October...

[PseudoWoobie]

Wow, Steve Jobs really lied about the iPod shuffle shipping in October...

Last I checked, October 31st was still October..

[twoodcc]

Last I checked, October 31st was still October..

well it is, but i really thought they'd be shipping by now :(

[OdduWon]

AWSOME! this mean if i go trick ot treat in the richi rich neighborhoods i might get a shuffle :D lol and a macboo...:D

[PseudoWoobie]

well it is, but i really thought they'd be shipping by now :(

Same here. It feels like I've been waiting for ages for a shipping notification. I wish they shipped sooner, but what can ya do?

[withnail]

Now, instead of Oct. 31, Amazon states that they will be "In stock soon." And if you click on the "used & new" link, you seemingly get more detail that they won't be released until the end of the year:

http://joe.glasselevator.net/poddate.png

[withnail]

...but then this afternoon I received shipment notification from Apple. Talk about responsive service!