The iPod, a portable music player that revolutionized the way we listened to music on-the-go, was once the crown jewel of Apple’s product lineup. Launched in 2001, the iPod became an instant hit, selling over 400 million units worldwide and dominating the music player market for over a decade. However, with the rise of smartphones and music streaming services, the iPod’s popularity began to wane. So, the question on everyone’s mind is: is Apple still making iPod?
The Rise and Fall of the iPod Empire
To understand the current state of the iPod, it’s essential to take a step back and look at its incredible journey. The first-generation iPod, released in 2001, had a 5 GB hard drive, a black and white screen, and could store up to 1,000 songs. It was a game-changer, offering users a portable music player that could store their entire music library. Over the years, Apple continued to innovate, releasing new iPod models with improved storage capacity, design, and features.
The iPod Mini, released in 2004, was a smaller, more compact version of the original iPod, which appealed to a wider audience. The iPod Nano, launched in 2005, was an even smaller, thinner version of the iPod Mini. The iPod Shuffle, introduced in 2005, was a tiny, lightweight player that played music randomly, without a screen.
At its peak, the iPod accounted for over 50% of Apple’s revenue, making it the company’s most profitable product. However, with the introduction of the iPhone in 2007, the iPod’s sales began to decline. People no longer needed a separate music player when their smartphone could do it all.
The Current State of the iPod
Fast-forward to the present day, and the iPod landscape has changed dramatically. Apple no longer updates its iPod lineup regularly, and the product has taken a backseat to other Apple devices like the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. But, to answer the question, yes, Apple is still making iPods, albeit in limited quantities and with minimal updates.
The current iPod lineup consists of just two models: the iPod Touch and the iPod Shuffle. The iPod Touch, a portable media player with Wi-Fi connectivity, is the more popular of the two. It’s essentially an iPhone without the phone, allowing users to stream music, watch videos, and play games. The iPod Shuffle, on the other hand, is a basic music player that plays songs randomly, without a screen.
iPod Touch: The Last iPod Standing
The iPod Touch is the most recent iPod model, released in 2019. It’s a significant upgrade from its predecessors, with a faster A10 Fusion chip, improved cameras, and iOS 12. The 7th-generation iPod Touch is available in three storage capacities: 32 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB, priced at $199, $299, and $399, respectively.
The iPod Touch is still a popular choice among parents who want a handheld device for their kids, without the risks associated with a smartphone. It’s also a great option for fitness enthusiasts who want a lightweight, waterproof music player for their workouts.
iPod Shuffle: The Forgotten Music Player
The iPod Shuffle, on the other hand, is a relic of the past. The last iPod Shuffle was released in 2012, and it’s been largely forgotten by Apple. The 4th-generation iPod Shuffle is still available on Apple’s website, but it’s no longer being updated or promoted. The tiny music player is available in 2 GB and 4 GB storage capacities, priced at $49 and $69, respectively.
What’s the Future of the iPod?
The iPod’s decline is a testament to the rapidly changing technology landscape. With the rise of music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal, the need for a dedicated music player has decreased. Smartphones have become an all-in-one device, capable of storing music libraries, streaming music, and even acting as a fitness tracker.
So, what’s the future of the iPod? Will Apple continue to produce iPods, or will it eventually discontinue the product line?
Apple’s Shift to Services
Apple’s recent focus on services, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade, suggests that the company is moving away from hardware sales and towards subscription-based services. The iPod, which was once a hardware-driven product, no longer fits into this new strategy.
The End of an Era?
The iPod’s demise is a sign of the times. With the rise of streaming services and the decline of physical music sales, the need for a dedicated music player has decreased. The iPod, which was once a revolutionary product, has become an afterthought in Apple’s product lineup.
In conclusion, while Apple is still making iPods, the product’s heyday is behind us. The iPod will always hold a special place in the hearts of music lovers, but its time has passed. As Apple continues to focus on services and other emerging technologies, it’s likely that the iPod will eventually become a relic of the past.
| iPod Model | Release Year | Storage Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPod Touch (7th generation) | 2019 | 32 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB | $199, $299, $399 |
| iPod Shuffle (4th generation) | 2012 | 2 GB, 4 GB | $49, $69 |
Note: The prices mentioned above are subject to change and may vary depending on the region and availability.
Is Apple still making iPods?
Apple is no longer producing new iPod models, but they are still selling existing inventory of the iPod Touch (7th generation) on their website. The company has shifted its focus towards its iPhone and other devices, and the iPod has become a secondary product.
The iPod was once a revolutionary device that changed the way people listened to music, but with the rise of smartphones, its popularity has declined significantly. Although Apple is no longer investing in new iPod models, the existing ones are still available for purchase, and the company provides support and maintenance for its users.
What is the current iPod model available in the market?
The current iPod model available in the market is the iPod Touch (7th generation). It was released in 2019 and is the last iPod model produced by Apple. The device comes with a 4-inch display, A10 Fusion chip, and up to 256GB of storage. It also features an 8-megapixel camera, Touch ID, and iOS 13 operating system.
The iPod Touch (7th generation) is a great option for those who want a dedicated music player with additional features like Wi-Fi connectivity, app support, and a camera. However, it is essential to note that this device is no longer receiving software updates, and Apple will eventually discontinue its support.
Can I still buy an iPod from Apple?
Yes, you can still buy an iPod from Apple’s official website. The company is selling the existing inventory of the iPod Touch (7th generation) in various storage capacities, including 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB. However, the availability of the device may vary depending on your location and region.
Please note that Apple is not producing new iPods, and once the existing inventory is sold out, it will no longer be available for purchase from the company’s website. If you’re looking to buy an iPod, it’s recommended to check the availability and make a purchase as soon as possible.
Are there any alternative music players available in the market?
Yes, there are several alternative music players available in the market. Some popular options include the SanDisk Clip Sport, Sony Walkman, and FiiO M3K. These devices are designed specifically for music playback and offer features like long battery life, water resistance, and expandable storage.
When choosing an alternative music player, consider your music listening habits and the features that are essential to you. Some devices may offer additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, voice assistant support, or FM radio, while others may be more basic and focused on music playback.
What about the iPod Classic and iPod Nano?
The iPod Classic and iPod Nano are discontinued products and are no longer available for purchase from Apple’s website. The iPod Classic was discontinued in 2014, and the iPod Nano was discontinued in 2017.
Although you may be able to find refurbished or used iPod Classic and iPod Nano devices from third-party sellers, they are no longer supported by Apple, and you may not receive any software updates or technical support. If you’re looking for a dedicated music player, it’s recommended to consider alternative options or the existing iPod Touch model.
Will Apple release a new iPod model in the future?
There is no indication from Apple that they will release a new iPod model in the future. The company has shifted its focus towards its iPhone and other devices, and the iPod has become a secondary product. With the decline in sales and the rise of streaming services, it’s unlikely that Apple will invest in a new iPod model.
However, Apple has not officially announced the end of the iPod line, and there is always a possibility that the company may reconsider its strategy in the future. If you’re waiting for a new iPod model, it’s recommended to keep an eye on Apple’s announcements and rumors, but don’t hold your breath.
What about the future of portable music players?
The future of portable music players is uncertain, but there are still opportunities for innovation and growth in this market. With the rise of streaming services and wireless earbuds, music listening habits are changing, and companies are looking for new ways to cater to these changes.
While Apple may not be investing in new iPod models, other companies may see an opportunity to fill the gap and develop innovative portable music players that meet the evolving needs of music listeners. The future of portable music players will likely involve a combination of features like wireless connectivity, voice assistant support, and long battery life.