The Apple iPod is the most successful digital audio player series in our commercial history. Since its launch in October 2001, its product line has developed and advanced through various model generations to include the iPod Classic, iPod Nano (replacement for the iPod Mini), iPod Shuffle and the iPod Touch. It is largely due to this aptitude for the latest technology and consumer choice that Apple has continued to dominate the market. In September 2009, Apple announced that the total cumulative sales of their iPods had exceeded 220 million.

An iPod is a portable media player that allows you to store your music in sync with your computer, creating playlists and navigating through your tracks by artist, album or genre. Depending on the type of iPod you select, you can also store videos and photos, watch movies, play games, email and surf the web, and access a huge selection of media entertainment via iTunes and the iTunes store.

Each product in the iPod line has various ‘generations’, with each generation offering different functions and features for consumers. For example, the iPod Classic began in 2001 as the ‘iPod’ and was not released under the name ‘iPod Classic’ until the launch of the sixth generation in 2007. Earlier generations of the iPod Classic include features such as a Firewire port and the Scroll Wheel, while later generations introduced the Dock port for music sync and recharging, and the Click Wheel, designed for touch interface. It is important for consumers to be aware of the different iPod generations, particularly when purchasing compatible accessories.

iPods vary in shape, size and design, offering a wide range of functions so that users can find a digital music player to suit their own lifestyle requirements. The iPod Shuffle, for instance, is the world’s smallest music player and Apple’s cheapest iPod. It weighs only 10.7 grams and currently provides a maximum of 4GB (storage for up to 1,000 songs). Discreet and endurable, it is the perfect choice for working out and everyday commuting. Alternatively, the iPod Classic now offers up to 160 GB of storage – that’s up to 40,000 songs or up to 200 hours of video, allowing users to access their entire media library wherever they go. The iPod Nano has a video camera with audio and an FM Tuner that includes Live Pause. The iPod Touch features interface that is almost identical to that of the iPhone; it has a 3.5 inch screen for watching movies, and built-in Wi-Fi for emailing and surfing the Web.

Due to the Apple iPod having such a huge impact on the market, several other industries are modifying their own products to work more efficiently and compatibly with the iPod range. While there have been some past criticisms over issues such as battery lifespan and hard drive fragility, Apple continues to refine and improve its software in accordance with the latest technological advances. Despite the economic downturn, Apple has recently reported its best sales quarter ever, which included the sale of 22.73 million iPods.