I've owned almost every iteration of iPods since the 3rd generation Classic, before the click wheel was introduced. I've owned 3rd, 4th, and 5th gen. Classics, a 1st and 2nd gen. Shuffle, a 4th gen. Nano, and the original iPhone. When I'm not working at TSP and saving the computer world, I spend a great deal of my time running. The two products I use most often during exercise are the 2nd gen. Shuffle and the Nano.
By now, you all know about the newly-updated line of iPods from Apple's creative geniuses. Some of you early adopters may have already pre-ordered your touch screen iPod Nano. We all know how impressive the technology is, and how interesting the new features can be; many blogs have already taken care of pointing out the technological beauties and flaws. I'd like to take a moment and look at these products from the practical and athletic side of the story.
iPod Shuffle
First of all, words cannot express how happy I am that buttons are back on the Shuffle. I understand what Apple was trying to accomplish with the last version, but honestly… marketing a small iPod as an exercise companion, and you have to move it around to switch songs? Seems impractical. Combining the voiceover commands and buttons on the newer version is a harmonious combination for active users. Also, the inclusion of multiple playlists and podcasts deserves a warm welcome. As a frequent listener of podcasts while running, it's about time! So far, this version of the shuffle gets a big thumbs up from me.
iPod Nano
Oh, Nano… how the mighty have fallen. Don't get me wrong, I love the clip on the back. In order to use my Nano right now, I have to use an armband. Most armbands are not comfortable and can be constricting, especially when doing strength training. So the clip is fantastic for exercise. The touchscreen… not so much. The iPod Nano is directly marketed to athletes, especially runners, with the integration of Nike+. To me, the marketing and functionality are now polar opposites. I love the click wheel and buttons of the previous Nanos because I can run without having to look at my iPod. Sure, if I wanted a specific song I would have to take a close look, but with a set playlist and Nike+'s "power song," that's a very rare occurrence. With the touch screen, everything is visual. If I want to skip a song, I have to look down and press at just the right spot. To change the volume, same thing. Not to mention touching the screen with sweaty fingers. Just like with the buttonless Shuffle, I understand Apple's motivation. But I think their product designers may have missed the mark.
iPod Touch
Not too many changes to note here. Another Nike+ integrated product, and can be useful in conjunction with GPS applications like MapMyRun. However, the iPod Touch isn't meant for exercise. This is the non-phone iPhone, with all the fun games, bells, and whistles. And it does all of that very well. Thinner, sleeker, speedier.
iPod Classic
When I didn't hear the Classic mentioned at the event, I originally thought the Classic was gone for good. What a tragedy that would be. It definitely still has its uses; like storing an entire library of music on one device. To get rid of it would be a bad move for Apple. It may not be the flashiest, but it does its core duties well. And isn't that what we really want at the end of the day?
What are your thoughts on the newest iPods? If you're an iPod/exercise person, do you agree? Sign in and let me know!
