Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Ipod shopping experience:

1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Ipod offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Ipod at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.

2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about

3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Ipod? Wrong! If the Ipod is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.

4. Questions - Got a question about Ipod then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....

5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Ipod? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Ipod and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.

6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Ipod wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.

7. Feedback - happy with your Ipod then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.

8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Ipod site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site

9. Contact - got a question about Ipod, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.

10. Payment - ready to pay for your Ipod, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.

{{Information appliance|title=iPod |image=] |caption=''The current iPod line consists of (from left to right) the iPod shuffle, iPod nano, iPod classic and iPod touch.'' |manufacturer=[Apple Inc. |type=[Portable media player |onlineservice=[iTunes Store |lifespan= |unitssold=Over 110 million units worldwide, as of September 2007--> iPod is a brand of portable media player designed and marketed by Apple Inc. and launched in October 2001. The line-up currently consists of the original style hard drive-based flagship iPod classic, the iPhone-like iPod touch, the mid-level video-capable iPod nano, and the low-end screenless iPod shuffle. Former products include the compact iPod mini (replaced by the iPod nano) and the high-end spin-off iPod photo (re-integrated into the main iPod classic line). The current iPod classic models store multimedia on an internal hard drive, while all other current models use flash memory to enable their smaller size. Like many digital music players, iPods can also serve as external USB mass storage device class.

Apple's iTunes software is used to transfer music to the devices. As a jukebox application, iTunes stores a music library on the user's computer and can play, optical disc authoring, and ripping music from a CD. It also transfers photos, videos, games, and calendars to those iPod models that support them. Apple focused its development on the iPod's unique user interface and its ease of use, rather than on technical capability. As of September 2007, the iPod had sold over 110 million units worldwide (stated in "The Beat Goes On" conference) making it the best-selling digital audio player series in history.

History and design iPod came from Apple's digital hub strategy,Kahney, Leander. Straight Dope on the iPod's Birth, Wired News, 2006-10-17. Retrieved on 2006-10-30. when the company began creating software for the growing market of digital devices being purchased by consumers. Digital cameras, camcorders and organizers had well-established mainstream markets, but the company found existing digital music players "big and clunky or small and useless" with user interfaces that were "unbelievably awful," so Apple decided to develop its own. Apple's hardware engineering chief, Jon Rubinstein, assembled a team of engineers to design it, including Tony Fadell, hardware engineer Michael Dhuey, and design engineer Jonathan Ive, with Stan Ng as the marketing manager. The product was developed in less than a year and unveiled on October 23,2001. CEO Steve Jobs announced it as a Mac-compatible product with a 5 GB hard drive that put "1000 songs in your pocket."

Uncharacteristically, Apple did not develop iPod's software entirely in-house. Apple instead used PortalPlayer's reference platform which was based on 2 ARM architecture cores. The platform had rudimentary software running on a commercial microkernel embedded operating system. PortalPlayer had previously been working on an IBM-branded MP3 player with Bluetooth headphones.Kahney, Leander. Inside Look at the Birth of the iPod, Wired News, 2004-07-21. Retrieved on 2006-10-30. Apple contracted another company, Pixo, to help design and implement the user interface, under the direct supervision of Steve Jobs. Once established, Apple continued to refine the software's look and feel. Starting with iPod mini, the Chicago (typeface) font was replaced with Espy Sans. Later iPods switched fonts again to Podium Sans — a font similar to Apple's corporate font Myriad (typeface). iPods with color displays then adopted some Mac OS X themes like Aqua progress bars, and brushed metal in the lock interface. In 2007, Apple modified the iPod interface again with the introduction of the sixth-generation iPod classic and third-generation iPod nano by changing the font to Helvetica, and in most cases, splitting the screen in half by displaying the menus on the left and album artwork, photos, or videos on the right (whichever was appropriate for the selected item).

The name iPod was proposed by Vinnie Chieco, a freelance copywriter, who (with others) was called by Apple to figure out how to introduce the new player to the public. After Chieco saw a prototype, he thought of the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey (film) and the phrase "Open the pod bay door, HAL 9000!", which refers to the white EVA Pods of the Discovery One spaceship. Joseph N. Grasso of New Jersey had originally listed an "ipod" trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in July 2000 for Internet kiosks. The first ipod kiosks had been demonstrated to the public in New Jersey in March 1998, and commercial use began in January 2000. The trademark was registered by the USPTO in November 2003, and Grasso assigned it to Apple Computer, Inc. in 2005.Serial No. 78018061, Registration No. 2781793, records of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. InPub, LLC, filed an "IPOD" trademark on June 1, 1999, for "computer software and hardware." The trademark was abandoned May 18, 2000, without commercial use.

Software iPod can play MP3, Advanced Audio Coding/MPEG-4 Part 14, FairPlay, AIFF, WAV, Audible.com audiobook, and Apple Lossless audio file formats. The iPod photo introduced the ability to display JPEG, Windows bitmap, Graphics Interchange Format, TIFF, and PNG image file formats. Fifth and sixth generation iPod classics, as well as third generation iPod nanos, can additionally play MPEG-4 (H.264/MPEG-4 AVC) and QuickTime container format, with restrictions on video dimensions, encoding techniques and data-rates. Originally, iPod software only worked with Macs; however, starting with the second generation model, iPod software worked with Windows and Macs. Unlike most other media players, Apple does not support Microsoft's Windows Media Audio audio format — but a converter for WMA files without Digital Rights Management (DRM) is provided with the Microsoft Windows version of iTunes. MIDI files also cannot be played, but can be converted to audio files using the "Advanced" menu in iTunes. Alternative open-source audio formats such as Ogg Vorbis and FLAC are not supported without installing custom firmware onto the iPod.

The iPod is associated with one host computer. Each time an iPod connects to its host computer, iTunes can synchronize entire music libraries or music playlists either automatically or manually. Song ratings can be set on the iPod and synchronized later to the iTunes library, and vice versa.

User interface iPods with color displays use anti-aliasing graphics and text, with sliding animations. Classic iPods have five buttons and the later generations have the buttons integrated into the click wheel — an innovation which gives an uncluttered, minimalist interface. The buttons perform functions such as play, next track, etc. Other operations such as scrolling through menu items and controlling the volume are performed by using the click wheel in a rotational manner. iPod shuffle does not have a click wheel and instead has five buttons positioned differently from the larger models. iPod touch uses no buttons for any of these functions, instead relying on the same Multi-touch input style as the iPhone.

iTunes Store The iTunes Store is an online media store run by Apple and accessed via iTunes. It was introduced on April 29, 2003 and it sells individual songs, with typical prices being United States dollar0.99, Australian dollar1.69 (inc. Goods and Services Tax (Australia)), New Zealand dollar1.79 (inc. Goods and Services Tax (New Zealand)), Euro0.99 (inc. Value added tax#European Union), or Pound sterling0.79 (inc. Value added tax#European Union) per song. Due to Digital rights management restrictions of MP3 players, only iPods can play protected content from the iTunes store. The store became the market leader soon after its launch iTunes Music Store Catalog Tops One Million Songs, Apple Inc., 2004-08-10. Retrieved on 2006-12-28. and Apple announced the sale of videos through the store on October 12, 2005. Full-length movies became available on September 12 2006.Scott-Joynt, Jeremy. Apple targets TV and film market, BBC News, 2006-09-12. Retrieved on 2006-09-12.

Purchased audio files use the AAC format with added encryption. The encryption is based on the FairPlay DRM system. Up to five authorized computers and an unlimited number of iPods can play the files. Burning the files onto an audio CD, then re-compressing can create music files without the DRM, although this results in generation loss. The DRM can also be removed using third-party software. However, in a deal with Apple, EMI began selling DRM-free, higher-quality songs on the iTunes Stores, in a category called "iTunes Plus." While individual songs were made available at a cost of US$1.29, 30¢ more than the cost of a regular DRM song, entire albums were available for the same price, US$9.99, as DRM encoded albums. On October 17, 2007, Apple lowered the cost of individual iTunes Plus songs to US$.99 per song, the same as DRM encoded tracks.

iPods cannot play music files from competing music stores that use rival-DRM technologies like Microsoft's Windows Media DRM or RealNetworks' Helix (project) DRM. Example stores include Napster and MSN Music. RealNetworks claims that Apple is creating problems for itselfKanellos, Michael. Real's Glaser exhorts Apple to open iPod, CNET, 2004-03-23. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. by using FairPlay to lock users into using the iTunes Store. Steve Jobs has stated that Apple makes little profit from song sales, although Apple uses the store to promote iPod sales.Orlowski, Andrew. Your 99c belong to the RIAA – Steve Jobs, The Register, 2003-11-07. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. However, iPods can also play music files from online stores that do not use DRM, such as eMusic or Amie Street.

On July 3, 2007, Universal Music Group decided not to renew their contract with the iTunes music store. Universal will now supply iTunes in an 'at will' capacity.Evans, Jonny. Universal confirms iTunes contract change, Macworld UK, 2007-07-04. Retrieved on 2007-07-05.

On September 5, 2007, at Apple's Media Event entitled "The Beat Goes On...", the company debuted the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store which allows one to access the Music Store from either the Wi-Fi enabled iPhone or the new iPod Touch and download songs directly to the device. When you next sync the device with iTunes, any purchased music is copied onto your iTunes Library.

File storage and transfer With the exception of the iPod touch, all iPods can function as USB mass storage device class to store data files. If the iPod is formatted on a Mac OS X computer it uses the HFS Plus file system format, which allows it to serve as a boot disk for a Mac computer.http://lifehacker.com/software/how-to/boot-up-your-mac-from-your-ipod-260157.php If it is formatted on Windows, the File Allocation Table#FAT32 format is used. With the advent of the Windows-compatible iPod, iPod's default file system switched from HFS+ to FAT32, although it can be reformatted to either filesystem (excluding the iPod shuffle which is strictly FAT32). Generally, if a new iPod (excluding the iPod shuffle) is initially plugged into a computer running Windows, it will be formatted with FAT32, and if initially plugged into a Mac running Mac OS X it will be formatted with HFS+.

Unlike many other MP3 players, simply copying audio or video files to the drive with a typical file management application will not allow iPod to properly access them. The user must use software that has been specifically designed to transfer media files to iPods, so that the files are playable and viewable. Aside from iTunes, several alternative third-party applications are available on a number of different platforms.

iTunes 7 and above can transfer purchased media of the iTunes Store from an iPod to a computer, provided that the DRM media is transferred to any of the five computers allowed for authorization with DRM media.

Media files are stored on the iPod in a hidden folder, together with a proprietary database file. The hidden content can be accessed on the host operating system by enabling hidden files to be shown. The audio can then be recovered manually by dragging the files or folders onto the iTunes Library or by using third-party software.

Hardware Chipsets and electronics Microcontroller Audio chip Storage medium Batteries

Connectivity Originally, a FireWire connection to the host computer was used to update songs or recharge the battery (electricity). The battery could also be charged with a power adapter that was included with the first four generations. The third generation began including a dock connector, allowing for FireWire or USB connectivity. This provided better compatibility with PCs, as most of them did not have FireWire ports at the time. However, the device could not be charged over USB, so the FireWire cables were nonetheless needed to connect to the AC adapter. The dock connector also brought opportunities to exchange data, sound and power with an iPod, which ultimately created a large market of accessories, manufactured by third parties such as Belkin and Griffin Technology. The second generation iPod shuffle uses a single 3.5 mm jack which acts as both a headphone jack and a data port for the dock.

The iPod mini and the fourth generation iPod allowed recharging via USB and eventually Apple began shipping iPods with USB cables instead of FireWire, although the latter was available separately. As of the first generation iPod nano and the fifth generation iPod classic, Apple discontinued using FireWire for data transfer and made a full transition to USB 2.0, due to its widespread adoption. FireWire was then usable for recharging only.

Accessories Many accessories have been made for the iPod. A large amount are made by third party companies, although many, such as iPod Hi-Fi, are made by Apple. This market is sometimes described as the iPod ecosystem.Darlin, Damon. The iPod Ecosystem. New York Times, 2006-02-03. Retrieved on 2006-08-14. Some accessories add extra features that other music players have, such as sound recorders, FM radio tuners, wired remote controls, and audio/visual cables for TV connections. Other accessories offer more unique features like the Nike+iPod pedometer and the iPod Camera Connector. Other notable accessories include external speakers, wireless remote controls, protective cases/films and wireless earphones. In-The-Ear Bluetooth Earphones. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Among the first accessory manufacturers were Griffin Technology, Belkin, JBL, Bose Corporation, Monster Cable, and SendStation Systems.

The white Headphones#Earbuds/Earphones (or "earbuds") that ship with all iPods have become symbolic of the brand. iPod advertising feature them prominently, often contrasting the white earphones (and cords) with people shown as dark silhouettes. The original earphones came with the first generation iPod. They were revised to be smaller after Apple received complaints of the earbuds being too large. The revised earphones were shipped with second through early fifth generation iPods, the iPod mini, and the first generation nanos The earbuds were revised again in 2006, featuring an even smaller and more streamlined design. This third type was shipped with late fifth generation iPods and the second generation nanos. All first generation iPod shuffles and the second generation up until January 30 2007 (when color models were introduced) had the second kind; those that shipped after that date had the third kind.

In 2005, New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (New York) placed adverts on the subways warning passengers that "Earphones are a giveaway. Protect your device",Dianner. Earphones are a giveaway, Flickr, 2005-07-21. Retrieved on 2007-02-11. after iPod thefts on the subway rose from zero in 2004 to 50 in the first three months of 2005.MacMillan, Robert. Somebody Out There Wants Your iPod, Washington Post, 2005-04-28. Retrieved on 2007-02-11.

BMW released the first iPod automobile interface, iPod Your BMW. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. allowing drivers of newer BMW vehicles to control their iPod using either the built-in steering wheel controls or the radio head-unit buttons. Apple announced in 2005 that similar systems would be available for other vehicle brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Apple & Mercedes-Benz Unveil iPod Integration Kit, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Volvo, Apple & Volvo Announce iPod Connectivity For Entire 2005 US Model Line, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Nissan, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Apple & Leading Car Companies Team Up to Deliver iPod Integration in 2005, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Acura, Audi, Honda, Honda Music Link for iPods, Honda. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Renault and Volkswagen. Apple Teams Up With Acura, Audi, Honda & Volkswagen to Deliver Seamless iPod Experience, Apple Inc., 2005-09-07. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Scion (car) offers standard iPod connectivity on all their cars.

Some independent stereo manufacturers including JVC, Pioneer Corporation, Kenwood Electronics, Alpine Electronics, Sony, and Harman Kardon also have iPod-specific integration solutions. Alternative connection methods include adaptor kits (that use the cassette deck or the CD changer port), audio input jacks, and FM transmitters such as the iTrip — although personal FM transmitters are illegal in some countries. Many car manufacturers have added audio input jacks as standard. Car Integration: iPod your car, Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Beginning in mid-2007, four major airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Emirates Airline reached agreements to install iPod seat connections. The free service will allow passengers to power and charge their iPod, and view their video and music libraries on individual seat-back displays. Apple Teams Up With Continental, Delta, Emirates, & United to deliver iPod Integration, Apple Inc., 2006-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-12-07. Originally KLM and Air France were reported to be part of the deal with Apple, but they later released statements explaining that they were only contemplating the possibility of incorporating such systems.Marsal, Katie. Two of six airlines say there's no ink on iPod deal, AppleInsider, 2006-11-15. Retrieved on 2006-12-07.

Models {| class="wikitable"|-!Model!Generation!Image!Capacity!style="width:60%"|Changes introduced!Connection!Original release date!Pricing (United States dollar)!Minimum OS to sync|-!rowspan="7"|iPod classic!first]|23 October 2001, [Mac OS X v10.1|-!second|align="center"||10, 20 GB|Touchpad wheel. FireWire port had a cover. Hold switch revised. Windows compatibility through Musicmatch Jukebox.|FireWire|17 July 2002
Win: [Windows 2000|-!third|align="center"||10, 15, 20, 30, 40 GB|First complete redesign with all-touch interface, dock connector, and slimmer case. Musicmatch support dropped with later release of iTunes 4.7 for Windows.|FireWire (USB for syncing only)] 2003
Win: [Windows 2000|-!fourth|align="center"||20, 40 GB|Adopted Click Wheel from iPod mini.|FireWire or USB [2004
Win: [Windows 2000|-!fourth (iPod photo) (iPod classic#iPod (with color display))|align="center"||photo: 30, 40, 60 GB
color: 20, 60 GB|Premium spin-off of 4G iPod with color screen and picture viewing. Later re-integrated into main iPod line.|FireWire or USB|October 2004|photo: $499, $599
(later $349, $449)
color: $299, $399|Mac: Mac OS X v10.2
Win: Windows 2000|-!fifth|align="center"||30, 60, 80 GB|Second full redesign with a slimmer case, and larger screen with video playback. Offered in black or white.|USB (FireWire for charging only)] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!sixth|align="center"||80, 160 GB|Introduced the "classic" suffix. New interface and anodized aluminum front plate. Silver replaces white.|USB (FireWire for charging only)|5 September 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-!rowspan="2"|iPod mini (discontinued) !first] 2004
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||4, 6 GB|Brighter color variants with longer battery life. Click Wheel lettering matched body color. Gold color discontinued. Later replaced by iPod nano.|USB or FireWire|22 February 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!rowspan="3"|iPod nano!first] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||2, 4, 8 GB|Anodized aluminum casing and 6 colors available.|USB (FireWire for charging only)|12 September 2006
Win: [Windows 2000|-!third|align="center"||4, 8 GB|2" QVGA screen, colors refreshed with chrome back, new interface, video capability.] 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-!rowspan="2"|iPod shuffle!first] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||1 GB|Smaller clip design with anodized aluminum casing. 4 color options added later. Colors were later refreshed.|USB|12 September 2006
Win: [Windows 2000|-!rowspan="1"|iPod touch!first] browser, Multi-touch, Wi-Fi, wireless access to the iTunes Store and YouTube.] 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-|} 2G iPod nano.

Identifying iPod models

Each new generation usually has more features and refinements while typically being smaller and lighter than its predecessor. Notable changes include the touch-sensitive click wheel replacing the mechanical scroll wheel, use of color displays, and flash memory replacing hard disks. Discontinued models include the first five generations of the full-sized iPod, both generations of the iPod mini, the first generation of the shuffle, and the first two generations of the nano.

The software bundled with the first generation iPod was Macintosh-only, so Windows users had to use third-party software like ephPod or XPlay to manage their music. When Apple introduced the second generation of iPods in July 2002, they sold two versions, one that included iTunes for Macintosh users and another that included Musicmatch Jukebox for Windows users. Apple Unveils New iPods, Apple Inc., 2002-07-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-19. In October 2003, Apple released the Windows version of iTunes, Apple Launches iTunes for Windows, Apple Inc., 2003-10-16. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. and started selling iPods that included both Macintosh and Windows versions of iTunes so that they could be used with either platform.

In December 2002, Apple unveiled its first limited edition iPods, with either Madonna (entertainer)’s, Tony Hawk’s, or Beck’s signature or No Doubt's band logo engraved on the back for an extra US$50.Dalrymple, Jim. Limited Edition Madonna, Tony Hawk, Beck iPods. Macworld, 2002-09-10. Retrieved on 2007-01-07. On October 26 2004, Apple introduced a special edition of its fourth generation monochrome iPod, designed in the color scheme of the album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb by Irish rock band U2. It had a black case with a red click wheel and the back had the engraved signatures of U2's band members. This iPod was updated alongside the iPod photo and fifth generation iPod.

On October 13 2006, Apple released a special edition 4 GB red iPod nano as part of the Product Red campaign. An 8 GB version was released three weeks later and both of them sold for the same price as the standard models. US$10 from each sale is donated to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria. On September 5, 2007, Apple also added a (PRODUCT)RED iPod shuffle model. They did not disclose how much will be donated to charity from this model. Apple also released Special Edition Harry Potter iPods to accompany the iPod photo. These were engraved with the Hogwarts Crest on the back and were only available to purchasers of the Harry Potter audiobooks. They were updated when the fifth generation iPods were released, but were only available for a limited time.

Criticisms Battery issues The advertised battery life on most models is different from the real-world achievable life. For example, the fifth generation 30 GB iPod is advertised as having up to 14 hours of music playback. An MP3.com report stated that this was virtually unachievable under real-life usage conditions, with a writer for MP3.com getting on average less than 8 hours from his or her iPod. MP3 Insider: The truth about your battery life, mp3.com, 2006-03-13. Retrieved on 2006-07-10. In 2003, class action lawsuits were brought against Apple complaining that the battery charges lasted for shorter lengths of time than stated and that the battery degraded over time. Apple investigates iPod batteries, BBC News, 2004-02-10. Retrieved on 2007-03-20. The lawsuits were settled by offering individuals either US$50 store credit or a free battery replacement.Horwitz, Jeremy. Apple’s iPod Battery Settlement, Explained, iLounge, 2005-06-10. Retrieved on 2006-08-27.

iPod batteries are not designed to be removed or replaced by the user, although some users have been able to open the case themselves, usually following instructions from third-party vendors of iPod replacement batteries. Compounding the problem, Apple initially would not replace worn-out batteries. The official policy was that the customer should buy a refurbished replacement iPod, at a cost almost equivalent to a brand new one. All lithium-ion batteries eventually lose capacity during their lifetime The Curse of Lithium Ion Batteries, MP3 Newswire, 2006-01-06. Retrieved on 2006-11-30. (guidelines are available for lithium-ion battery#Guidelines for prolonging Li-ion battery life) and this situation led to a small market for third-party battery replacement kits.

Apple announced a battery replacement program on November 14, 2003, a week before iPod Battery FAQ. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. a high publicity stunt and website by the Neistat Brothers.Neistat, Casey. A Message From the Neistat Brothers, 2003-11-20. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The initial cost was US$99, Apple offers iPod battery replacement service, MacMinute, 2003-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. and it was lowered to US$59 in 2005. One week later, Apple offered an extended iPod warranty for US$59. AppleCare for iPod now available, MacMinute, 2003-11-21. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. For the iPod nano, soldering tools are needed because the battery is soldered onto the main board. Fifth generation iPods have their battery attached to the backplate with adhesive.Ecker, Clint. Vivisection of the Video iPod, Ars Technica, 2005-10-19. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. Disassemble Guide for Video iPod. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.

Bass response The third generation iPod had a weak bass response, as shown in audio tests.Machrone, Bill. iPod audio measurements, PC Magazine. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.Heijligers, Marc. iPod audio measurements. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The combination of the undersized DC-blocking capacitors and the typical low-Electrical impedance of most consumer headphones form a high-pass filter, which attenuates the low-frequency bass output by up to 10 dB. Similar capacitors were used in the fourth generation iPods.Heijligers, Marc. iPod circuit design engineering, May 2006. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The problem is reduced when using high-impedance headphones and is completely masked when driving high-impedance (line level) loads. The first generation iPod shuffle uses a dual-transistor output stage rather than a single capacitor-coupled output, and does not exhibit reduced bass response for any load.

Equalizer If the sound is enhanced with the iPod's software audio filter (EQ), some EQ settings — like R&B, Rock, Acoustic, and Bass Booster — can cause bass distortion too easily.Kuzmanoski, Brian. Analysis of the iPod's equalizer, DAP review. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. MacInTouch reader report of iPod sound distortion, MacInTouch, July 2002. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The equalizer amplifies the digital audio level beyond the software's limit, causing distortion (clipping (audio)) on songs that have a bass drum or use a bassy instrument, even when the amplifier level is low. One possible workaround is to reduce the volume level of the songs by modifying the audio files.

Reliability and durability iPods have been criticized for their short life-span, fragile hard drives, and planned obsolescence.Baca, Ricardo. When iPods go bad, Denver Post, 2006-07-18. Retrieved on 2007-01-17.Slade, Giles. The iPod Is Bad Garbage, Tyee Books, 2006-08-01. Retrieved on 2007-01-17. A 2005 survey conducted on the MacInTouch website found that the iPod had an average failure rate of 13.7%. It concluded that some models were more durable than others. iPod Reliability Survey, MacInTouch, 2005-11-28. Retrieved on 2006-10-29. In particular failure rates for iPods employing hard drives was usually above 20% while those with flash memory had a failure rate below 10%, indicating poor hard drive durability. In late 2005, many users complained that the surface of the first generation iPod nano can become scratched easily, rendering the screen unusable. Apple responds to iPod nano screen concerns, Macworld, 2005-09-27. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.Arthur, Charles. iPod Nano owners in screen scratch trauma, The Register, 2005-09-25. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. A class action lawsuit was also filed.Fried, Ina. Suit filed over Nano scratches, CNET, 2005-10-21. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Apple initially considered the issue a minor defect, but later began shipping these iPods with protective sleeves.

Allegations of worker exploitation On June 11 2006, the British newspaper Daily Mail reported that iPods are mainly manufactured by workers who earn no more than US$50 per month and work 15-hour shifts. Inside Apple's iPod factories, Macworld UK, 2006-06-12. Retrieved on 2007-03-20. Apple investigated the case with independent auditors and found that, while some of the plant's labour practices met Apple's Code of Conduct, others did not: Employees worked over 60 hours a week for 35% of the time, and worked more than six consecutive days for 25% of the time.Millard, Elizabeth. Is It Ethical To Own an iPod?. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.

Apple's manufacturer — which initially denied the abuses Foxconn denies iPod 'sweatshop' claims, MacNN, 2006-06-19. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. — promised to disallow working more hours than the Code allowed. Apple hired a workplace standards auditing company, Verité, and joined the Electronic Industry Code of Conduct Implementation Group to oversee the measures. On December 31 2006, workers at the Taiwanese factory (owned by Foxconn) formed a union. The union is affiliated with the All-China Federation of Trade Unions.Bodeen, Chistopher. Official Union Forms at Taiwanese Plant, Forbes, 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Patent disputes In 2005, Apple Computer faced two lawsuits claiming patent infringement by the iPod and its associated technologies: Apple faces patent lawsuits over its iPod, ChannelRegister, 2005-03-10. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Advanced Audio Devices claimed the iPod breached its patent on a "music jukebox", U.S. Patent 6,587,403 — Advanced Audio Devices' "music jukebox" patent. while a Hong Kong-based Intellectual property portfolio company called Pat-rights filed a suit claiming that Apple's FairPlay technology breached a patent U.S. Patent 6,665,797 — "Protection of software again against unauthorized use" (corrected to "Computer Apparatus/Software Access Control"). issued to inventor Ho Keung Tse. The latter case also includes the online music stores of Sony, RealNetworks, Napster, and Musicmatch as defendants. Apple, Sony among those named in new DRM lawsuit, AppleInsider, 2005-08-16. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Apple's application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office for a patent on "rotational user inputs", U.S. patent application 20030095096 Apple's application on "rotational user inputs". as used on the iPod's interface, received a third "non-final rejection" (NFR) in August 2005. Also in August 2005, Creative Technology, one of Apple's main rivals in the MP3 player market, announced that it held a patent U.S. Patent 6,928,433 Creative Technology's "Zen" patent. on part of the music selection interface used by the iPod, which Creative dubbed the "Zen Patent", granted on August 9, 2005. Creative wins MP3 player patent, BBC News, 2005-08-30. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. On May 15 2006, Creative filed another suit against Apple with the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Creative also asked the United States International Trade Commission to investigate whether Apple was breaching U.S. trade laws by importing iPods into the United States. Creative sues Apple over patent, Macworld UK, 2006-05-16. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.

On August 24 2006, Apple and Creative announced a broad settlement to end their legal disputes. Apple will pay Creative US$100 million for a paid-up license, to use Creative's awarded patent in all Apple products. As part of the agreement, Apple will recoup part of its payment, if Creative is successful in licensing the patent. Creative then announced its intention to produce iPod accessories by joining the Made for iPod program. Apple & Creative Announce Broad Settlement..., , Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Sales Since October 2004, the iPod has dominated digital music player sales in the United States, with over 90% of the market for hard drive-based players and over 70% of the market for all types of players.Marsal, Katie. iPod: how big can it get?, AppleInsider, 2006-05-24. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. During the year from January 2004 to January 2005, the high rate of sales caused its U.S. market share to increase from 31% to 65% and in July 2005, this market share was measured at 74%.

The release of the iPod mini helped to ensure this success at a time when competing flash-based music players were once dominant.jomy Apple Computer (presentation slides), 2005-10-18. Retrieved on 2006-05-25. On January 8 2004, Hewlett-Packard (HP) announced that they would sell HP-branded iPods under a license agreement from Apple. Several new retail channels were used—including Wal-Mart—and these iPods eventually made up 5% of all iPod sales. In July 2005, HP stopped selling iPods due to unfavorable terms and conditions imposed by Apple. HP to stop selling Apple's iPods, Apple rumors community, 2005-07-29. Retrieved on 2007-08-06.

In January 2007, Apple reported record quarterly earnings of US$7.1 billion, of which 48% was made from iPod sales. Apple Reports First Quarter Results, Apple Inc., 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

On April 9 2007, it was announced that Apple had sold its one-hundred millionth iPod, making it the biggest selling digital music player of all time. In April 2007, Apple reported second quarter earnings of US$5.2 billion, of which 32% was made from iPod sales. Apple Reports Second Quarter Results, Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-04-25. Apple and several industry analysts suggest that iPod users are likely to purchase other Apple products such as Mac computers.Orlowski, Andrew. {{Information appliance|title=iPod |image=] |caption=''The current iPod line consists of (from left to right) the iPod shuffle, iPod nano, iPod classic and iPod touch.'' |manufacturer=[Apple Inc. |type=[Portable media player |onlineservice=[iTunes Store |lifespan= |unitssold=Over 110 million units worldwide, as of September 2007--> iPod is a brand of portable media player designed and marketed by Apple Inc. and launched in October 2001. The line-up currently consists of the original style hard drive-based flagship iPod classic, the iPhone-like iPod touch, the mid-level video-capable iPod nano, and the low-end screenless iPod shuffle. Former products include the compact iPod mini (replaced by the iPod nano) and the high-end spin-off iPod photo (re-integrated into the main iPod classic line). The current iPod classic models store multimedia on an internal hard drive, while all other current models use flash memory to enable their smaller size. Like many digital music players, iPods can also serve as external USB mass storage device class.

Apple's iTunes software is used to transfer music to the devices. As a jukebox application, iTunes stores a music library on the user's computer and can play, optical disc authoring, and ripping music from a CD. It also transfers photos, videos, games, and calendars to those iPod models that support them. Apple focused its development on the iPod's unique user interface and its ease of use, rather than on technical capability. As of September 2007, the iPod had sold over 110 million units worldwide (stated in "The Beat Goes On" conference) making it the best-selling digital audio player series in history.

History and design iPod came from Apple's digital hub strategy,Kahney, Leander. Straight Dope on the iPod's Birth, Wired News, 2006-10-17. Retrieved on 2006-10-30. when the company began creating software for the growing market of digital devices being purchased by consumers. Digital cameras, camcorders and organizers had well-established mainstream markets, but the company found existing digital music players "big and clunky or small and useless" with user interfaces that were "unbelievably awful," so Apple decided to develop its own. Apple's hardware engineering chief, Jon Rubinstein, assembled a team of engineers to design it, including Tony Fadell, hardware engineer Michael Dhuey, and design engineer Jonathan Ive, with Stan Ng as the marketing manager. The product was developed in less than a year and unveiled on October 23,2001. CEO Steve Jobs announced it as a Mac-compatible product with a 5 GB hard drive that put "1000 songs in your pocket."

Uncharacteristically, Apple did not develop iPod's software entirely in-house. Apple instead used PortalPlayer's reference platform which was based on 2 ARM architecture cores. The platform had rudimentary software running on a commercial microkernel embedded operating system. PortalPlayer had previously been working on an IBM-branded MP3 player with Bluetooth headphones.Kahney, Leander. Inside Look at the Birth of the iPod, Wired News, 2004-07-21. Retrieved on 2006-10-30. Apple contracted another company, Pixo, to help design and implement the user interface, under the direct supervision of Steve Jobs. Once established, Apple continued to refine the software's look and feel. Starting with iPod mini, the Chicago (typeface) font was replaced with Espy Sans. Later iPods switched fonts again to Podium Sans — a font similar to Apple's corporate font Myriad (typeface). iPods with color displays then adopted some Mac OS X themes like Aqua progress bars, and brushed metal in the lock interface. In 2007, Apple modified the iPod interface again with the introduction of the sixth-generation iPod classic and third-generation iPod nano by changing the font to Helvetica, and in most cases, splitting the screen in half by displaying the menus on the left and album artwork, photos, or videos on the right (whichever was appropriate for the selected item).

The name iPod was proposed by Vinnie Chieco, a freelance copywriter, who (with others) was called by Apple to figure out how to introduce the new player to the public. After Chieco saw a prototype, he thought of the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey (film) and the phrase "Open the pod bay door, HAL 9000!", which refers to the white EVA Pods of the Discovery One spaceship. Joseph N. Grasso of New Jersey had originally listed an "ipod" trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in July 2000 for Internet kiosks. The first ipod kiosks had been demonstrated to the public in New Jersey in March 1998, and commercial use began in January 2000. The trademark was registered by the USPTO in November 2003, and Grasso assigned it to Apple Computer, Inc. in 2005.Serial No. 78018061, Registration No. 2781793, records of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. InPub, LLC, filed an "IPOD" trademark on June 1, 1999, for "computer software and hardware." The trademark was abandoned May 18, 2000, without commercial use.

Software iPod can play MP3, Advanced Audio Coding/MPEG-4 Part 14, FairPlay, AIFF, WAV, Audible.com audiobook, and Apple Lossless audio file formats. The iPod photo introduced the ability to display JPEG, Windows bitmap, Graphics Interchange Format, TIFF, and PNG image file formats. Fifth and sixth generation iPod classics, as well as third generation iPod nanos, can additionally play MPEG-4 (H.264/MPEG-4 AVC) and QuickTime container format, with restrictions on video dimensions, encoding techniques and data-rates. Originally, iPod software only worked with Macs; however, starting with the second generation model, iPod software worked with Windows and Macs. Unlike most other media players, Apple does not support Microsoft's Windows Media Audio audio format — but a converter for WMA files without Digital Rights Management (DRM) is provided with the Microsoft Windows version of iTunes. MIDI files also cannot be played, but can be converted to audio files using the "Advanced" menu in iTunes. Alternative open-source audio formats such as Ogg Vorbis and FLAC are not supported without installing custom firmware onto the iPod.

The iPod is associated with one host computer. Each time an iPod connects to its host computer, iTunes can synchronize entire music libraries or music playlists either automatically or manually. Song ratings can be set on the iPod and synchronized later to the iTunes library, and vice versa.

User interface iPods with color displays use anti-aliasing graphics and text, with sliding animations. Classic iPods have five buttons and the later generations have the buttons integrated into the click wheel — an innovation which gives an uncluttered, minimalist interface. The buttons perform functions such as play, next track, etc. Other operations such as scrolling through menu items and controlling the volume are performed by using the click wheel in a rotational manner. iPod shuffle does not have a click wheel and instead has five buttons positioned differently from the larger models. iPod touch uses no buttons for any of these functions, instead relying on the same Multi-touch input style as the iPhone.

iTunes Store The iTunes Store is an online media store run by Apple and accessed via iTunes. It was introduced on April 29, 2003 and it sells individual songs, with typical prices being United States dollar0.99, Australian dollar1.69 (inc. Goods and Services Tax (Australia)), New Zealand dollar1.79 (inc. Goods and Services Tax (New Zealand)), Euro0.99 (inc. Value added tax#European Union), or Pound sterling0.79 (inc. Value added tax#European Union) per song. Due to Digital rights management restrictions of MP3 players, only iPods can play protected content from the iTunes store. The store became the market leader soon after its launch iTunes Music Store Catalog Tops One Million Songs, Apple Inc., 2004-08-10. Retrieved on 2006-12-28. and Apple announced the sale of videos through the store on October 12, 2005. Full-length movies became available on September 12 2006.Scott-Joynt, Jeremy. Apple targets TV and film market, BBC News, 2006-09-12. Retrieved on 2006-09-12.

Purchased audio files use the AAC format with added encryption. The encryption is based on the FairPlay DRM system. Up to five authorized computers and an unlimited number of iPods can play the files. Burning the files onto an audio CD, then re-compressing can create music files without the DRM, although this results in generation loss. The DRM can also be removed using third-party software. However, in a deal with Apple, EMI began selling DRM-free, higher-quality songs on the iTunes Stores, in a category called "iTunes Plus." While individual songs were made available at a cost of US$1.29, 30¢ more than the cost of a regular DRM song, entire albums were available for the same price, US$9.99, as DRM encoded albums. On October 17, 2007, Apple lowered the cost of individual iTunes Plus songs to US$.99 per song, the same as DRM encoded tracks.

iPods cannot play music files from competing music stores that use rival-DRM technologies like Microsoft's Windows Media DRM or RealNetworks' Helix (project) DRM. Example stores include Napster and MSN Music. RealNetworks claims that Apple is creating problems for itselfKanellos, Michael. Real's Glaser exhorts Apple to open iPod, CNET, 2004-03-23. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. by using FairPlay to lock users into using the iTunes Store. Steve Jobs has stated that Apple makes little profit from song sales, although Apple uses the store to promote iPod sales.Orlowski, Andrew. Your 99c belong to the RIAA – Steve Jobs, The Register, 2003-11-07. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. However, iPods can also play music files from online stores that do not use DRM, such as eMusic or Amie Street.

On July 3, 2007, Universal Music Group decided not to renew their contract with the iTunes music store. Universal will now supply iTunes in an 'at will' capacity.Evans, Jonny. Universal confirms iTunes contract change, Macworld UK, 2007-07-04. Retrieved on 2007-07-05.

On September 5, 2007, at Apple's Media Event entitled "The Beat Goes On...", the company debuted the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store which allows one to access the Music Store from either the Wi-Fi enabled iPhone or the new iPod Touch and download songs directly to the device. When you next sync the device with iTunes, any purchased music is copied onto your iTunes Library.

File storage and transfer With the exception of the iPod touch, all iPods can function as USB mass storage device class to store data files. If the iPod is formatted on a Mac OS X computer it uses the HFS Plus file system format, which allows it to serve as a boot disk for a Mac computer.http://lifehacker.com/software/how-to/boot-up-your-mac-from-your-ipod-260157.php If it is formatted on Windows, the File Allocation Table#FAT32 format is used. With the advent of the Windows-compatible iPod, iPod's default file system switched from HFS+ to FAT32, although it can be reformatted to either filesystem (excluding the iPod shuffle which is strictly FAT32). Generally, if a new iPod (excluding the iPod shuffle) is initially plugged into a computer running Windows, it will be formatted with FAT32, and if initially plugged into a Mac running Mac OS X it will be formatted with HFS+.

Unlike many other MP3 players, simply copying audio or video files to the drive with a typical file management application will not allow iPod to properly access them. The user must use software that has been specifically designed to transfer media files to iPods, so that the files are playable and viewable. Aside from iTunes, several alternative third-party applications are available on a number of different platforms.

iTunes 7 and above can transfer purchased media of the iTunes Store from an iPod to a computer, provided that the DRM media is transferred to any of the five computers allowed for authorization with DRM media.

Media files are stored on the iPod in a hidden folder, together with a proprietary database file. The hidden content can be accessed on the host operating system by enabling hidden files to be shown. The audio can then be recovered manually by dragging the files or folders onto the iTunes Library or by using third-party software.

Hardware Chipsets and electronics Microcontroller Audio chip Storage medium Batteries

Connectivity Originally, a FireWire connection to the host computer was used to update songs or recharge the battery (electricity). The battery could also be charged with a power adapter that was included with the first four generations. The third generation began including a dock connector, allowing for FireWire or USB connectivity. This provided better compatibility with PCs, as most of them did not have FireWire ports at the time. However, the device could not be charged over USB, so the FireWire cables were nonetheless needed to connect to the AC adapter. The dock connector also brought opportunities to exchange data, sound and power with an iPod, which ultimately created a large market of accessories, manufactured by third parties such as Belkin and Griffin Technology. The second generation iPod shuffle uses a single 3.5 mm jack which acts as both a headphone jack and a data port for the dock.

The iPod mini and the fourth generation iPod allowed recharging via USB and eventually Apple began shipping iPods with USB cables instead of FireWire, although the latter was available separately. As of the first generation iPod nano and the fifth generation iPod classic, Apple discontinued using FireWire for data transfer and made a full transition to USB 2.0, due to its widespread adoption. FireWire was then usable for recharging only.

Accessories Many accessories have been made for the iPod. A large amount are made by third party companies, although many, such as iPod Hi-Fi, are made by Apple. This market is sometimes described as the iPod ecosystem.Darlin, Damon. The iPod Ecosystem. New York Times, 2006-02-03. Retrieved on 2006-08-14. Some accessories add extra features that other music players have, such as sound recorders, FM radio tuners, wired remote controls, and audio/visual cables for TV connections. Other accessories offer more unique features like the Nike+iPod pedometer and the iPod Camera Connector. Other notable accessories include external speakers, wireless remote controls, protective cases/films and wireless earphones. In-The-Ear Bluetooth Earphones. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Among the first accessory manufacturers were Griffin Technology, Belkin, JBL, Bose Corporation, Monster Cable, and SendStation Systems.

The white Headphones#Earbuds/Earphones (or "earbuds") that ship with all iPods have become symbolic of the brand. iPod advertising feature them prominently, often contrasting the white earphones (and cords) with people shown as dark silhouettes. The original earphones came with the first generation iPod. They were revised to be smaller after Apple received complaints of the earbuds being too large. The revised earphones were shipped with second through early fifth generation iPods, the iPod mini, and the first generation nanos The earbuds were revised again in 2006, featuring an even smaller and more streamlined design. This third type was shipped with late fifth generation iPods and the second generation nanos. All first generation iPod shuffles and the second generation up until January 30 2007 (when color models were introduced) had the second kind; those that shipped after that date had the third kind.

In 2005, New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (New York) placed adverts on the subways warning passengers that "Earphones are a giveaway. Protect your device",Dianner. Earphones are a giveaway, Flickr, 2005-07-21. Retrieved on 2007-02-11. after iPod thefts on the subway rose from zero in 2004 to 50 in the first three months of 2005.MacMillan, Robert. Somebody Out There Wants Your iPod, Washington Post, 2005-04-28. Retrieved on 2007-02-11.

BMW released the first iPod automobile interface, iPod Your BMW. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. allowing drivers of newer BMW vehicles to control their iPod using either the built-in steering wheel controls or the radio head-unit buttons. Apple announced in 2005 that similar systems would be available for other vehicle brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Apple & Mercedes-Benz Unveil iPod Integration Kit, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Volvo, Apple & Volvo Announce iPod Connectivity For Entire 2005 US Model Line, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Nissan, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Apple & Leading Car Companies Team Up to Deliver iPod Integration in 2005, Apple Inc., 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Acura, Audi, Honda, Honda Music Link for iPods, Honda. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Renault and Volkswagen. Apple Teams Up With Acura, Audi, Honda & Volkswagen to Deliver Seamless iPod Experience, Apple Inc., 2005-09-07. Retrieved on 2006-06-20. Scion (car) offers standard iPod connectivity on all their cars.

Some independent stereo manufacturers including JVC, Pioneer Corporation, Kenwood Electronics, Alpine Electronics, Sony, and Harman Kardon also have iPod-specific integration solutions. Alternative connection methods include adaptor kits (that use the cassette deck or the CD changer port), audio input jacks, and FM transmitters such as the iTrip — although personal FM transmitters are illegal in some countries. Many car manufacturers have added audio input jacks as standard. Car Integration: iPod your car, Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Beginning in mid-2007, four major airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Emirates Airline reached agreements to install iPod seat connections. The free service will allow passengers to power and charge their iPod, and view their video and music libraries on individual seat-back displays. Apple Teams Up With Continental, Delta, Emirates, & United to deliver iPod Integration, Apple Inc., 2006-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-12-07. Originally KLM and Air France were reported to be part of the deal with Apple, but they later released statements explaining that they were only contemplating the possibility of incorporating such systems.Marsal, Katie. Two of six airlines say there's no ink on iPod deal, AppleInsider, 2006-11-15. Retrieved on 2006-12-07.

Models {| class="wikitable"|-!Model!Generation!Image!Capacity!style="width:60%"|Changes introduced!Connection!Original release date!Pricing (United States dollar)!Minimum OS to sync|-!rowspan="7"|iPod classic!first]|23 October 2001, [Mac OS X v10.1|-!second|align="center"||10, 20 GB|Touchpad wheel. FireWire port had a cover. Hold switch revised. Windows compatibility through Musicmatch Jukebox.|FireWire|17 July 2002
Win: [Windows 2000|-!third|align="center"||10, 15, 20, 30, 40 GB|First complete redesign with all-touch interface, dock connector, and slimmer case. Musicmatch support dropped with later release of iTunes 4.7 for Windows.|FireWire (USB for syncing only)] 2003
Win: [Windows 2000|-!fourth|align="center"||20, 40 GB|Adopted Click Wheel from iPod mini.|FireWire or USB [2004
Win: [Windows 2000|-!fourth (iPod photo) (iPod classic#iPod (with color display))|align="center"||photo: 30, 40, 60 GB
color: 20, 60 GB|Premium spin-off of 4G iPod with color screen and picture viewing. Later re-integrated into main iPod line.|FireWire or USB|October 2004|photo: $499, $599
(later $349, $449)
color: $299, $399|Mac: Mac OS X v10.2
Win: Windows 2000|-!fifth|align="center"||30, 60, 80 GB|Second full redesign with a slimmer case, and larger screen with video playback. Offered in black or white.|USB (FireWire for charging only)] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!sixth|align="center"||80, 160 GB|Introduced the "classic" suffix. New interface and anodized aluminum front plate. Silver replaces white.|USB (FireWire for charging only)|5 September 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-!rowspan="2"|iPod mini (discontinued) !first] 2004
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||4, 6 GB|Brighter color variants with longer battery life. Click Wheel lettering matched body color. Gold color discontinued. Later replaced by iPod nano.|USB or FireWire|22 February 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!rowspan="3"|iPod nano!first] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||2, 4, 8 GB|Anodized aluminum casing and 6 colors available.|USB (FireWire for charging only)|12 September 2006
Win: [Windows 2000|-!third|align="center"||4, 8 GB|2" QVGA screen, colors refreshed with chrome back, new interface, video capability.] 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-!rowspan="2"|iPod shuffle!first] 2005
Win: [Windows 2000|-!second|align="center"||1 GB|Smaller clip design with anodized aluminum casing. 4 color options added later. Colors were later refreshed.|USB|12 September 2006
Win: [Windows 2000|-!rowspan="1"|iPod touch!first] browser, Multi-touch, Wi-Fi, wireless access to the iTunes Store and YouTube.] 2007
Win: [Windows XP|-|} 2G iPod nano.

Identifying iPod models

Each new generation usually has more features and refinements while typically being smaller and lighter than its predecessor. Notable changes include the touch-sensitive click wheel replacing the mechanical scroll wheel, use of color displays, and flash memory replacing hard disks. Discontinued models include the first five generations of the full-sized iPod, both generations of the iPod mini, the first generation of the shuffle, and the first two generations of the nano.

The software bundled with the first generation iPod was Macintosh-only, so Windows users had to use third-party software like ephPod or XPlay to manage their music. When Apple introduced the second generation of iPods in July 2002, they sold two versions, one that included iTunes for Macintosh users and another that included Musicmatch Jukebox for Windows users. Apple Unveils New iPods, Apple Inc., 2002-07-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-19. In October 2003, Apple released the Windows version of iTunes, Apple Launches iTunes for Windows, Apple Inc., 2003-10-16. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. and started selling iPods that included both Macintosh and Windows versions of iTunes so that they could be used with either platform.

In December 2002, Apple unveiled its first limited edition iPods, with either Madonna (entertainer)’s, Tony Hawk’s, or Beck’s signature or No Doubt's band logo engraved on the back for an extra US$50.Dalrymple, Jim. Limited Edition Madonna, Tony Hawk, Beck iPods. Macworld, 2002-09-10. Retrieved on 2007-01-07. On October 26 2004, Apple introduced a special edition of its fourth generation monochrome iPod, designed in the color scheme of the album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb by Irish rock band U2. It had a black case with a red click wheel and the back had the engraved signatures of U2's band members. This iPod was updated alongside the iPod photo and fifth generation iPod.

On October 13 2006, Apple released a special edition 4 GB red iPod nano as part of the Product Red campaign. An 8 GB version was released three weeks later and both of them sold for the same price as the standard models. US$10 from each sale is donated to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria. On September 5, 2007, Apple also added a (PRODUCT)RED iPod shuffle model. They did not disclose how much will be donated to charity from this model. Apple also released Special Edition Harry Potter iPods to accompany the iPod photo. These were engraved with the Hogwarts Crest on the back and were only available to purchasers of the Harry Potter audiobooks. They were updated when the fifth generation iPods were released, but were only available for a limited time.

Criticisms Battery issues The advertised battery life on most models is different from the real-world achievable life. For example, the fifth generation 30 GB iPod is advertised as having up to 14 hours of music playback. An MP3.com report stated that this was virtually unachievable under real-life usage conditions, with a writer for MP3.com getting on average less than 8 hours from his or her iPod. MP3 Insider: The truth about your battery life, mp3.com, 2006-03-13. Retrieved on 2006-07-10. In 2003, class action lawsuits were brought against Apple complaining that the battery charges lasted for shorter lengths of time than stated and that the battery degraded over time. Apple investigates iPod batteries, BBC News, 2004-02-10. Retrieved on 2007-03-20. The lawsuits were settled by offering individuals either US$50 store credit or a free battery replacement.Horwitz, Jeremy. Apple’s iPod Battery Settlement, Explained, iLounge, 2005-06-10. Retrieved on 2006-08-27.

iPod batteries are not designed to be removed or replaced by the user, although some users have been able to open the case themselves, usually following instructions from third-party vendors of iPod replacement batteries. Compounding the problem, Apple initially would not replace worn-out batteries. The official policy was that the customer should buy a refurbished replacement iPod, at a cost almost equivalent to a brand new one. All lithium-ion batteries eventually lose capacity during their lifetime The Curse of Lithium Ion Batteries, MP3 Newswire, 2006-01-06. Retrieved on 2006-11-30. (guidelines are available for lithium-ion battery#Guidelines for prolonging Li-ion battery life) and this situation led to a small market for third-party battery replacement kits.

Apple announced a battery replacement program on November 14, 2003, a week before iPod Battery FAQ. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. a high publicity stunt and website by the Neistat Brothers.Neistat, Casey. A Message From the Neistat Brothers, 2003-11-20. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The initial cost was US$99, Apple offers iPod battery replacement service, MacMinute, 2003-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. and it was lowered to US$59 in 2005. One week later, Apple offered an extended iPod warranty for US$59. AppleCare for iPod now available, MacMinute, 2003-11-21. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. For the iPod nano, soldering tools are needed because the battery is soldered onto the main board. Fifth generation iPods have their battery attached to the backplate with adhesive.Ecker, Clint. Vivisection of the Video iPod, Ars Technica, 2005-10-19. Retrieved on 2006-11-26. Disassemble Guide for Video iPod. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.

Bass response The third generation iPod had a weak bass response, as shown in audio tests.Machrone, Bill. iPod audio measurements, PC Magazine. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.Heijligers, Marc. iPod audio measurements. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The combination of the undersized DC-blocking capacitors and the typical low-Electrical impedance of most consumer headphones form a high-pass filter, which attenuates the low-frequency bass output by up to 10 dB. Similar capacitors were used in the fourth generation iPods.Heijligers, Marc. iPod circuit design engineering, May 2006. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The problem is reduced when using high-impedance headphones and is completely masked when driving high-impedance (line level) loads. The first generation iPod shuffle uses a dual-transistor output stage rather than a single capacitor-coupled output, and does not exhibit reduced bass response for any load.

Equalizer If the sound is enhanced with the iPod's software audio filter (EQ), some EQ settings — like R&B, Rock, Acoustic, and Bass Booster — can cause bass distortion too easily.Kuzmanoski, Brian. Analysis of the iPod's equalizer, DAP review. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. MacInTouch reader report of iPod sound distortion, MacInTouch, July 2002. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. The equalizer amplifies the digital audio level beyond the software's limit, causing distortion (clipping (audio)) on songs that have a bass drum or use a bassy instrument, even when the amplifier level is low. One possible workaround is to reduce the volume level of the songs by modifying the audio files.

Reliability and durability iPods have been criticized for their short life-span, fragile hard drives, and planned obsolescence.Baca, Ricardo. When iPods go bad, Denver Post, 2006-07-18. Retrieved on 2007-01-17.Slade, Giles. The iPod Is Bad Garbage, Tyee Books, 2006-08-01. Retrieved on 2007-01-17. A 2005 survey conducted on the MacInTouch website found that the iPod had an average failure rate of 13.7%. It concluded that some models were more durable than others. iPod Reliability Survey, MacInTouch, 2005-11-28. Retrieved on 2006-10-29. In particular failure rates for iPods employing hard drives was usually above 20% while those with flash memory had a failure rate below 10%, indicating poor hard drive durability. In late 2005, many users complained that the surface of the first generation iPod nano can become scratched easily, rendering the screen unusable. Apple responds to iPod nano screen concerns, Macworld, 2005-09-27. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.Arthur, Charles. iPod Nano owners in screen scratch trauma, The Register, 2005-09-25. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. A class action lawsuit was also filed.Fried, Ina. Suit filed over Nano scratches, CNET, 2005-10-21. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Apple initially considered the issue a minor defect, but later began shipping these iPods with protective sleeves.

Allegations of worker exploitation On June 11 2006, the British newspaper Daily Mail reported that iPods are mainly manufactured by workers who earn no more than US$50 per month and work 15-hour shifts. Inside Apple's iPod factories, Macworld UK, 2006-06-12. Retrieved on 2007-03-20. Apple investigated the case with independent auditors and found that, while some of the plant's labour practices met Apple's Code of Conduct, others did not: Employees worked over 60 hours a week for 35% of the time, and worked more than six consecutive days for 25% of the time.Millard, Elizabeth. Is It Ethical To Own an iPod?. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.

Apple's manufacturer — which initially denied the abuses Foxconn denies iPod 'sweatshop' claims, MacNN, 2006-06-19. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. — promised to disallow working more hours than the Code allowed. Apple hired a workplace standards auditing company, Verité, and joined the Electronic Industry Code of Conduct Implementation Group to oversee the measures. On December 31 2006, workers at the Taiwanese factory (owned by Foxconn) formed a union. The union is affiliated with the All-China Federation of Trade Unions.Bodeen, Chistopher. Official Union Forms at Taiwanese Plant, Forbes, 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Patent disputes In 2005, Apple Computer faced two lawsuits claiming patent infringement by the iPod and its associated technologies: Apple faces patent lawsuits over its iPod, ChannelRegister, 2005-03-10. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. Advanced Audio Devices claimed the iPod breached its patent on a "music jukebox", U.S. Patent 6,587,403 — Advanced Audio Devices' "music jukebox" patent. while a Hong Kong-based Intellectual property portfolio company called Pat-rights filed a suit claiming that Apple's FairPlay technology breached a patent U.S. Patent 6,665,797 — "Protection of software again against unauthorized use" (corrected to "Computer Apparatus/Software Access Control"). issued to inventor Ho Keung Tse. The latter case also includes the online music stores of Sony, RealNetworks, Napster, and Musicmatch as defendants. Apple, Sony among those named in new DRM lawsuit, AppleInsider, 2005-08-16. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Apple's application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office for a patent on "rotational user inputs", U.S. patent application 20030095096 Apple's application on "rotational user inputs". as used on the iPod's interface, received a third "non-final rejection" (NFR) in August 2005. Also in August 2005, Creative Technology, one of Apple's main rivals in the MP3 player market, announced that it held a patent U.S. Patent 6,928,433 Creative Technology's "Zen" patent. on part of the music selection interface used by the iPod, which Creative dubbed the "Zen Patent", granted on August 9, 2005. Creative wins MP3 player patent, BBC News, 2005-08-30. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. On May 15 2006, Creative filed another suit against Apple with the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Creative also asked the United States International Trade Commission to investigate whether Apple was breaching U.S. trade laws by importing iPods into the United States. Creative sues Apple over patent, Macworld UK, 2006-05-16. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.

On August 24 2006, Apple and Creative announced a broad settlement to end their legal disputes. Apple will pay Creative US$100 million for a paid-up license, to use Creative's awarded patent in all Apple products. As part of the agreement, Apple will recoup part of its payment, if Creative is successful in licensing the patent. Creative then announced its intention to produce iPod accessories by joining the Made for iPod program. Apple & Creative Announce Broad Settlement..., , Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

Sales Since October 2004, the iPod has dominated digital music player sales in the United States, with over 90% of the market for hard drive-based players and over 70% of the market for all types of players.Marsal, Katie. iPod: how big can it get?, AppleInsider, 2006-05-24. Retrieved on 2007-02-17. During the year from January 2004 to January 2005, the high rate of sales caused its U.S. market share to increase from 31% to 65% and in July 2005, this market share was measured at 74%.

The release of the iPod mini helped to ensure this success at a time when competing flash-based music players were once dominant.jomy Apple Computer (presentation slides), 2005-10-18. Retrieved on 2006-05-25. On January 8 2004, Hewlett-Packard (HP) announced that they would sell HP-branded iPods under a license agreement from Apple. Several new retail channels were used—including Wal-Mart—and these iPods eventually made up 5% of all iPod sales. In July 2005, HP stopped selling iPods due to unfavorable terms and conditions imposed by Apple. HP to stop selling Apple's iPods, Apple rumors community, 2005-07-29. Retrieved on 2007-08-06.

In January 2007, Apple reported record quarterly earnings of US$7.1 billion, of which 48% was made from iPod sales. Apple Reports First Quarter Results, Apple Inc., 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.

On April 9 2007, it was announced that Apple had sold its one-hundred millionth iPod, making it the biggest selling digital music player of all time. In April 2007, Apple reported second quarter earnings of US$5.2 billion, of which 32% was made from iPod sales. Apple Reports Second Quarter Results, Apple Inc.. Retrieved on 2007-04-25. Apple and several industry analysts suggest that iPod users are likely to purchase other Apple products such as Mac computers.Orlowski, Andrew.

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