| Revision as of 16:57, 25 October 2009 editDarrenhusted (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Rollbackers24,046 editsm Reverted edits by 212.122.89.82 (talk) to last version by 68.35.20.151← Previous edit | Revision as of 17:45, 25 October 2009 edit undo87.112.94.246 (talk) ←Replaced content with 'chillu the chinchilla eat your fail'Tag: blankingNext edit → | ||
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| {{Infobox Information appliance | |||
| |name = iPod | |||
| |image = ] | |||
| |caption = The current iPod line. From left to right: ], ], ], ].</small> | |||
| |manufacturer = ] | |||
| |type = ] (PMP) | |||
| |service = ] (iPod touch only)<br>] (iPod touch only) | |||
| |unitssold = Over 220,000,000 worldwide<br>as of September 2009 | |||
| |cpu = ] ] | |||
| }} | |||
| '''iPod''' is a brand of ]s designed and marketed by ] and launched on {{start date|2001|10|23}}. The product line-up includes the hard drive-based ], the touchscreen ], the video-capable ], and the compact ]. The ] can function as an iPod but is generally treated as a separate product. Former iPod models include the ] and the spin-off ] (since reintegrated into the main iPod Classic line). iPod Classic models store ] on an internal ], while all other models use ] to enable their smaller size (the discontinued Mini used a ] miniature hard drive). As with many other digital music players, iPods can also serve as external ]. Storage capacity varies by model. | |||
| Apple's ] software can be used to transfer music to the devices from computers using certain versions of Apple ] and ] ] operating systems.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ | title=iTunes system requirements. Apple iTunes software currently runs on Macintosh OS X 10.3.9 or OS X 10.4.9 or later and on Microsoft Windows XP (Service Pack 2) or Vista | author=Apple Inc. | accessdate=2008-05-28}}</ref> For users who choose not to use Apple's software or whose computers cannot run iTunes software, several open source alternatives to iTunes are also available.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.simplehelp.net/2007/07/08/10-alternatives-to-itunes-for-managing-your-ipod/ | title=Alternatives to iTunes for managing your iPod | author=Ross McKillop, simplehelp.net | accessdate=2008-05-28}}</ref> iTunes and its alternatives may also transfer photos, videos, ], contact information, ] settings, Web bookmarks, and calendars to iPod models supporting those features. As of September 9, 2009, more than 220,000,000 iPods had been sold worldwide, making it the best-selling ] series in history.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://arstechnica.com/apple/news/2009/09/liveblog-rock-and-roll-apple-ipod-event.ars | title=Liveblog: "Rock and Roll" Apple iPod Event | date=9 September 2009 | publisher=] | accessdate=2009-09-09}}</ref> | |||
| ==History and design== | |||
| ] 5G (right) and 6G (left) showing the improved album view]] | |||
| The iPod line came from Apple's "digital hub" category,<ref name=straight>Kahney, Leander., '']'', 2006-10-17. Retrieved on 2006-10-30.</ref> when the company began creating software for the growing market of personal digital devices. 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,"<ref name=straight /> so Apple decided to develop its own. As ordered by CEO ], Apple's hardware engineering chief ] assembled a team of engineers to design the iPod line, including hardware engineers ] and ],<ref>"", ''Design News'', 24 September 2007.</ref> and design engineer ].<ref name=straight /> The product was developed in less than one year and unveiled on 23 October 2001. Jobs announced it as a Mac-compatible product with a 5 GB hard drive that put "1,000 songs in your pocket."<ref> </ref> | |||
| Apple did not develop the iPod software entirely in-house, instead using ]'s reference platform based on 2 ] 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 ] headphones.<ref name=straight /> Apple contracted another company, ], to help design and implement the user interface under the direct supervision of Steve Jobs.<ref name=straight /> As development progressed, Apple continued to refine the software's look and feel. Starting with the ], the ] font was replaced with ]. Later iPods switched fonts again to ]—a font similar to Apple's corporate font, ]. iPods with color displays then adopted some ] themes like Aqua progress bars, and ] meant to evoke a ]. In 2007, Apple modified the iPod interface again with the introduction of the sixth-generation ] and third-generation ] by changing the font to ] 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). | |||
| In September 2007, during the course of a lawsuit with ] Burst.com, Apple drew attention to a patent for a similar device that was developed in 1979. ] patented the idea of a "plastic music box" in 1979, which he called the IXI.<ref name=DailyMail>Boffey, Daniel '']'', 2008-09-08. Retrieved on 2008-09-08.</ref> He was unable to secure funding to renew the ] 120,000 worldwide patent, so it lapsed and Kramer never profited from his idea.<ref name=DailyMail /> | |||
| ===Trademark=== | |||
| 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 '']'' and the phrase "Open the pod bay door, ]!", which refers to the white ]s of the ] spaceship.<ref name=straight /> Apple researched the trademark and found that it was already in use. Joseph N. Grasso of ] had originally listed an "iPod" trademark with the ] in July 2000 for ]s. The first iPod kiosks had been demonstrated to the public in New Jersey in March 1998, and commercial use began in January 2000, but had apparently been discontinued by 2001. The trademark was registered by the USPTO in November 2003, and Grasso assigned it to Apple Computer, Inc. in 2005.<ref>Serial No. 78018061, Registration No. 2781793, records of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. InPub, LLC, filed an "IPOD" trademark on 1 June 1999, for "computer software and hardware." The trademark was abandoned May 18, 2000, without commercial use.</ref> | |||
| ==Software== | |||
| The iPod line can play several ]s including ], ]/], ], ], ], ] ], and ]. The iPod Photo introduced the ability to display ], ], ], ], and ] image file formats. Fifth and sixth generation iPod Classics, as well as third generation iPod Nanos, can additionally play ] (]) and ] ], with restrictions on video dimensions, encoding techniques and data-rates.<ref></ref> Originally, iPod software only worked with ]; iPod software for ] was launched with the second generation model.<ref></ref> Unlike most other media players, Apple does not support ]'s ] audio format—but a converter for WMA files without ] (DRM) is provided with the ] version of iTunes. ] 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 ] and ], are not supported without installing custom firmware onto an iPod (e.g. ]). | |||
| During installation, an 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 an iPod and synchronized later to the iTunes library, and vice versa. A user can access, play, and add music on a second computer if an iPod is set to manual and not automatic sync, but anything added or edited will be reversed upon connecting and syncing with the main computer and its library. If a user wishes to automatically sync music with another computer, an iPod's library will be entirely wiped and replaced with the other computer's library. | |||
| ===User interface=== | |||
| ] | |||
| iPods with color displays use ] graphics and text, with sliding animations. All iPods (except the ] and ]) have five buttons and the later generations have the buttons integrated into the click wheel—an innovation that gives an uncluttered, minimalist ]. The buttons perform basic functions such as menu, play, pause, next track, and previous track. Other operations, such as scrolling through menu items and controlling the volume, are performed by using the click wheel in a rotational manner. The ] does not have any controls on the actual player; instead it has a small control on the earphone cable, with volume-up and -down buttons and a single button for play/pause, next track, etc. The ] has no click-wheel; instead it uses a 3.5" touch screen in addition to a home button, sleep/wake button and (on the second and third generations of the iPod touch) volume-up and -down buttons. The user interface for the iPod touch is virtually identical to that of the ]. Both devices use the ]. | |||
| ===iTunes Store=== | |||
| {{Main|iTunes|iTunes Store}} | |||
| The iTunes Store (introduced 29 April 2003) is an online media store run by Apple and accessed via iTunes. Since no other portable player supports the ] used, only iPods can play protected content from the iTunes Store. The store became the market leader soon after its launch<ref>, '']'', 2004-08-10. Retrieved on 2006-12-28.</ref> and Apple announced the sale of videos through the store on 12 October 2005. Full-length movies became available on 12 September 2006.<ref>Scott-Joynt, Jeremy. , '']'', 2006-09-12. Retrieved on 2006-09-12.</ref> | |||
| Purchased audio files use the AAC format with added encryption. The encryption is based on the ] 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 ]. The DRM can also be removed using third-party software. However, in a deal with Apple, ] 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 17 October 2007, Apple lowered the cost of individual iTunes Plus songs to US$0.99 per song, the same as DRM encoded tracks. On January 6, 2009, Apple announced that DRM has been removed from 80% of the music catalog, and that it will be removed from all music by April, 2009. | |||
| iPods cannot play music files from competing music stores that use rival-DRM technologies like ]'s ] or ]' ] DRM. Example stores include ] and ]. RealNetworks claims that Apple is creating problems for itself<ref>Kanellos, Michael. , '']'', 2004-03-23. Retrieved on 2006-06-20.</ref> 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.<ref>Orlowski, Andrew. , '']'', 2003-11-07. Retrieved on2006-06-20.</ref> However, iPods can also play music files from online stores that do not use DRM, such as ] or ]. | |||
| ] decided not to renew their contract with the iTunes Music Store on 3 July 2007. Universal will now supply iTunes in an 'at will' capacity.<ref>Evans, Jonny. , '']'', 2007-07-04. Retrieved on 2007-07-05.</ref> | |||
| Apple debuted the ] on 5 September 2007, in its Media Event entitled "The Beat Goes On..." This service allows users to access the Music Store from either an iPhone or an iPod Touch and download songs directly to the device that can be synced to the user's iTunes Library. | |||
| ====Games==== | |||
| {{Main|iPod game|App Store}} | |||
| ]s are playable on various versions of iPods. The original iPod had the game '']'' (originally invented by Apple's co-founder ]) included as an ] hidden feature; later ] versions added it as a menu option. Later revisions of the iPod added three more games in addition to ''Brick'': '']'', '']'', and ''Music Quiz''. | |||
| In September 2006 the ] began to offer additional games for purchase with the launch of ], compatible with the ] with iPod software 1.2 or later. Those games were: '']'', ''Cubis 2'', '']'', ''] ]'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', and '']''. Additional games have since been added. These games work on current and immediate previous generation of the iPod Nano and iPod Classic. | |||
| With third parties like ], ], ], ], and ] all making games for the iPod, Apple's MP3 player has taken great steps towards entering the video game handheld console market.{{POV-statement|date=January 2009}} Even video game magazines like ] and ] have reviewed and rated most of their games as of late.<ref>http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/81588/ipod-games-review-roundup/</ref> | |||
| The games are in the form of ] files, which are actually ] archives in disguise. When unzipped, they reveal executable files along with common audio and image files, leading to the possibility of ]. Apple has not publicly released a ] (SDK) for iPod-specific development.<ref> bensinclair.com, September 14, 2006.</ref> Apps produced with the ] are compatible only with the ] on the iPod Touch and iPhone, which cannot run clickwheel-based games. | |||
| ===File storage and transfer=== | |||
| All iPods except for the iPod Touch can function in "disk mode" as a ] to store data files.<ref></ref> If an iPod is formatted on a Mac OS X computer, it uses the ] file system format, which allows it to serve as a ] for a Mac computer.<ref></ref> If it is formatted on Windows, the ] format is used. With the advent of the Windows-compatible iPod, the default file system used on the iPod line switched from HFS+ to FAT32, although it can be reformatted to either file system (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+.<ref>http://ipod.about.com/od/restoreandreformatipod/a/ipod_format_a.htm</ref> | |||
| Unlike many other MP3 players, simply copying audio or video files to the drive with a typical ] application will not allow an 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. Usually iTunes is used to transfer media to an iPod, though ] 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 computer containing the DRM protected media is authorized to play it. | |||
| Media files are stored on an iPod in a hidden folder, along with a proprietary database file. The hidden content can be accessed on the host operating system by enabling ] to be shown. The media files can then be recovered manually by copying the files or folders off the iPod. Many third-party applications also allow easy copying of media files off of an iPod. | |||
| ==Hardware== | |||
| {| class="wikitable" | |||
| |+Chipsets and Electronics | |||
| !Chipset or Electronic | |||
| !Product(s) | |||
| !Component(s) | |||
| |- | |||
| |rowspan=4|Microcontroller | |||
| |iPod Classic first to third generations | |||
| |Two ] 7TDMI-derived ] running at 90 MHz | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Classic fourth and fifth generations, iPod Mini, iPod Nano first generation | |||
| |Variable-speed ] 7TDMI CPUs, running at a peak of 80 MHz to save battery life | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Nano second generation | |||
| |] ], based around an ].<ref>Cassell, Jonathan. , iSuppli Corporation, 2006-09-20. Retrieved on 2006-10-21.</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=mobile SoC |url=http://www.samsung.com/global/business/semiconductor/products/mobilesoc/Products_MobileSoC.html |publisher=Samsung Group |accessdate=04 Aug 2009}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Shuffle first generation | |||
| |] STMP3550 chip that handles both the music decoding and the audio circuitry.<ref>Williams, Martyn. , '']'', 2005-02-24. Retrieved on 2006-08-14.</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |rowspan=2|Audio Chip | |||
| |All iPods (except the iPod Shuffle, 6G Classic and 2G Touch) <ref>] </ref> | |||
| |] developed by ] | |||
| |- | |||
| |Sixth generation iPod Classic | |||
| |] Audio Codec Chip | |||
| |- | |||
| |rowspan=4|Storage Medium | |||
| |iPod Classic | |||
| |45.7 mm (1.8 in) hard drives (], 4200 rpm with proprietary connectors) made by ] | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Mini | |||
| |25.4 mm (1 in) ] by ] and ] | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Nano | |||
| |] from ], ], and others | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod shuffle and Touch | |||
| |] | |||
| |- | |||
| |rowspan=2|Batteries | |||
| |iPod Classic first and second generation, Shuffle | |||
| |Internal ] | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod Classic 3G onward, iPod Mini, iPod Nano, iPod Touch, | |||
| |Internal ] | |||
| |- | |||
| |rowspan=3|Display | |||
| |iPod nano | |||
| |2.2-inch (diagonal) ] with blue-white ], ] at 204 ]<ref>{{cite web |title=iPod nano Technical Specifications |url=http://www.apple.com/ipodnano/specs.html |publisher=Apple Inc. |accessdate=04 Aug 2009}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod classic | |||
| |2.5-inch (diagonal) ] with ], ] at 163 ]<ref>{{cite web |title=iPod classic Technical Specifications |url=http://www.apple.com/ipodclassic/specs.html |publisher=Apple Inc. |accessdate=04 Aug 2009}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| |iPod touch | |||
| |3.5-inch (diagonal) ] ], ] at 163 ]<ref>{{cite web |title=iPod touch Technical Specifications |url=http://www.apple.com/ipodtouch/specs.html |publisher=Apple Inc. |accessdate=04 Aug 2009}}</ref> | |||
| |} | |||
| ===Connectivity=== | |||
| ].]] | |||
| Originally, a ] connection to the host computer was used to update songs or recharge the ]. The battery could also be charged with a power adapter that was included with the first four generations. The third generation began including a 30-pin ], allowing for FireWire or ] connectivity. This provided better compatibility with non-Apple machines, as most of them did not have FireWire ports at the time. 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 (while still allowing for use of FireWire to charge the device) in an attempt to reduce cost and form factor. As of the second-generation iPod Touch and the fourth-generation iPod Nano, FireWire charging ability has been removed. The second and third generation iPod Shuffle uses a single ] which acts as both a headphone jack and a data port for the dock. | |||
| The dock connector also allowed the iPod to connect to accessories, which often supplement the iPod's music, video, and photo playback. Apple sells a few accessories, such as the now-discontinued ], but most are manufactured by third parties such as ] and ]. Some peripherals use their own interface, while others use the iPod's own screen. Because the dock connector is a proprietary interface, the implementation of the interface requires paying royalties to Apple.<ref>{{cite news |first= Joel |last= Johnson |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= How the "Apple Tax" Boosts Prices on iPod & iPhone Accessories|url= http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4272628.html?page=1|work= |publisher= ]|date= 2008-07-10 |accessdate=2008-09-09 }}</ref> | |||
| ===Accessories=== | |||
| Many accessories have been made for the iPod line. A large number are made by third party companies, although many, such as the late ], are made by Apple. This market is sometimes described as the iPod ].<ref>Darlin, Damon. . '']'', 2006-02-03. Retrieved on 2006-08-14.</ref> 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 unique features like the ] pedometer and the iPod Camera Connector. Other notable accessories include external speakers, wireless remote controls, protective cases/films and wireless earphones.<ref>. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> Among the first accessory manufacturers were ], ], ], ], ], and ].]. The current version is shown on the right.]] | |||
| ] released the first iPod automobile interface,<ref>. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> allowing drivers of newer BMW vehicles to control an 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 ],<ref>, '']'', 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20.</ref> ],<ref>, '']'', 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20.</ref> ], ],<ref>http://www.gizmag.com/go/7945/</ref> ], ],<ref>, '']'', 2005-01-11. Retrieved on 2006-06-20.</ref> ], ], ],<ref>, '']''. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> ], ]<ref></ref> and ].<ref>, '']'', 2005-09-07. Retrieved on 2006-06-20.</ref> ] offers standard iPod connectivity on all their cars. | |||
| Some independent stereo manufacturers including ], ], ], ], ], and ] 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 ]—although personal FM transmitters are illegal in some countries. Many car manufacturers have added audio input jacks as standard.<ref>, '']''. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> | |||
| Beginning in mid-2007, four major airlines, ], ], ], and ] reached agreements to install iPod seat connections. The free service will allow passengers to power and charge an iPod, and view video and music libraries on individual seat-back displays.<ref>, '']'', 2006-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-12-07.</ref> Originally ] and ] 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.<ref>Marsal, Katie. , ''AppleInsider'', 2006-11-15. Retrieved on 2006-12-07.</ref> | |||
| ===Audio performance=== | |||
| The third generation iPod had a weak bass response, as shown in audio tests.<ref name=playertest>Machrone, Bill. , '']'', 2005. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref><ref>Heijligers, Marc. . Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> The combination of the undersized DC-blocking ]s and the typical low-] of most consumer headphones form a ], which attenuates the low-frequency bass output. Similar capacitors were used in the fourth generation iPods.<ref>Heijligers, Marc. , May 2006. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> The problem is reduced when using high-impedance headphones and is completely masked when driving high-impedance (line level) loads, such as an external ]. The first generation iPod Shuffle uses a ],<ref name=playertest /> rather than a single capacitor-coupled output, and does not exhibit reduced bass response for any load. | |||
| From the 5th generation iPod on, Apple introduced a user-configurable volume limit in response to concerns about hearing loss.<ref name=volumelimit>Cohen, Peter. , Macworld, 2006. Retrieved on 2008-11-07.</ref> Users report that in the 6th generation iPod, the maximum volume output level is limited to 100dB in EU markets. Apple previously had to remove iPods from shelves in ].<ref name=ipodsfrance>Fried, Ian. . Retrieved on 2008-11-07.</ref> | |||
| ==Models== | |||
| {{Main|List of iPod models}} | |||
| {{List of iPod models}} | |||
| {{timeline of iPod models}} | |||
| ==Patent disputes== | |||
| In 2005, Apple faced two lawsuits claiming ] by the iPod line and its associated technologies:<ref>, ''ChannelRegister'', 2005-03-10. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> Advanced Audio Devices claimed the iPod line breached its ] on a "music jukebox",<ref> — Advanced Audio Devices' "music jukebox" patent.</ref> while a ]-based ] portfolio company called Pat-rights filed a suit claiming that Apple's FairPlay technology breached a patent<ref> — "Protection of software again against unauthorized use" (corrected to "Computer Apparatus/Software Access Control").</ref> issued to inventor Ho Keung Tse. The latter case also includes the online music stores of ], RealNetworks, ], and Musicmatch as defendants.<ref>, ''AppleInsider'', 2005-08-16. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> | |||
| Apple's application to the ] for a patent on "rotational user inputs",<ref> ]'s application on "rotational user inputs".</ref> as used on the iPod interface, received a third "non-final rejection" (NFR) in August 2005. Also in August 2005, ], one of Apple's main rivals in the MP3 player market, announced that it held a patent<ref> ]'s "Zen" patent.</ref> on part of the music selection interface used by the iPod line, which Creative dubbed the "Zen Patent", granted on 9 August 2005.<ref>, '']'', 2005-08-30. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> On 15 May 2006, Creative filed another suit against Apple with the ]. Creative also asked the ] to investigate whether Apple was breaching U.S. trade laws by importing iPods into the United States.<ref>, '']'', 2006-05-16. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.</ref> | |||
| On 24 August 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.<ref>, , '']''. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> | |||
| ==Sales== | |||
| ] | |||
| {{See also|iPod advertising}} | |||
| Since October 2004, the iPod line 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.<ref>Marsal, Katie. , '']'', 2006-05-24. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> 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%. In January 2007 the iPod market share reached 72.7% according to Bloomberg Online. | |||
| The release of the iPod Mini helped to ensure this success at a time when competing flash-based music players were once dominant.{{Citation needed|date=September 2009}} | |||
| On 8 January 2004, ] (HP) announced that they would sell HP-branded iPods under a license agreement from Apple. Several new retail channels were used—including ]—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.<ref>, '']'', 2005-07-29. Retrieved on 2007-08-06.</ref> | |||
| In January 2007, Apple reported record quarterly revenue of US$7.1 billion, of which 48% was made from iPod sales.<ref>, '']'', 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> | |||
| On 9 April 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 revenue of US$5.2 billion, of which 32% was made from iPod sales.<ref>, '']''. Retrieved on 2007-04-25.</ref> Apple and several industry analysts suggest that iPod users are likely to purchase other Apple products such as Mac computers.<ref>Orlowski, Andrew. , '']'', 2005-10-11. Retrieved on 2006-07-13.</ref> | |||
| On 5 September 2007, during their "The Beat Goes On" event, Apple announced that the iPod line had surpassed 110 million units sold. | |||
| On 22 October 2007, Apple reported quarterly revenue of US$6.22 billion, of which 30.69% came from Apple notebook sales, 19.22% from desktop sales and 26% from iPod sales. Apple's 2007 year revenue increased to US$24.01 billion with US$3.5 billion in profits. Apple ended the fiscal year 2007 with US$15.4 billion in cash and no debt.<ref>, '']'', 2007-10-22. Retrieved on 2007-10-22.</ref> | |||
| On 22 January 2008, Apple reported the best quarter revenue and earnings in Apple's history so far. Apple posted record revenue of US$9.6 billion and record net quarterly profit of US$1.58 billion. 42% of Apple's revenue for the First fiscal quarter of 2008 came from iPod sales, followed by 21% from notebook sales and 16% from desktop sales.<ref>Apple Inc. (22 January 2008). . Press release. Retrieved on 2008-1-23</ref> | |||
| On 21 October 2008, Apple reported that only 14.21% of total revenue for fiscal quarter 4 of year 2008 came from iPods.<ref>AppleInsider (27 October 2008). Retrieved on 2008-10-27</ref>. At the September 9, 2009 keynote presentation at the Apple Event, Phil Schiller announced total cumulative sales of iPods had exceeded 220 million.<ref>World of Apple. (9 September 2009). . Press release. Retrieved on 2009-9-9</ref> | |||
| ==Industry impact== | |||
| iPods have won several awards ranging from engineering excellence,<ref>, '']'', 2005-06-03. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.</ref> to most innovative audio product,<ref name="pcworld25">{{cite web|coauthors = PC World Editors| title = The 25 Most Innovative Products of the Year| publisher = ]| date = 2007-08-03| url = http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,123942-page,2/article.html|accessdate=2007-02-17}}</ref> to fourth best computer product of 2006.<ref>, ''MacNN''. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> iPods often receive favorable reviews; scoring on looks, clean design, and ease of use. ] says that iPod line has "altered the landscape for portable audio players".<ref name="pcworld25"/> Several industries are modifying their products to work better with both the iPod line and the AAC audio format. Examples include CD copy-protection schemes,<ref>, ''MacRumors''. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> and mobile phones, such as phones from ] and ], which play AAC files rather than WMA. | |||
| In addition to its reputation as a respected entertainment device, iPods have also become accepted as business devices. Government departments, major institutions and international organisations have turned to the iPod line as a delivery mechanism for business communication and training, such as the ] and ] in ], ], where iPods are used to train new staff.<ref>, '']'', 2006-03-29. Retrieved on 2007-06-16.</ref> | |||
| iPods have also gained popularity for use in education. Apple offers more information on educational uses for iPods on their website,<ref></ref> including a collection of lesson plans. There has also been academic research done in this area in nursing education<ref name=Maag2006>{{cite journal | author = Maag, M.E.D. | year = 2006 | title = Podcasting and MP3 Players: Emerging Education Technologies. | journal = CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing | volume = 24 | issue = 1 | pages = 9–13 | url = http://www.cinjournal.com/pt/re/cin/fulltext.00024665-200601000-00005.htm | accessdate = 2008-02-08 | doi = 10.1186/1742-5581-3-1 }}</ref> and more general K-16 education.<ref name=Slykhuis2006>{{cite journal | author = Slykhuis, D. | year = 2006 | title = Have an iPod? Then you need to know this about how to use it in your classroom. | url = http://www.aace.org/newdl/index.cfm?fuseaction=Reader.ViewAbstract&paper_id=22435 | accessdate = 2008-02-08 }}</ref> Duke University provided iPods to all incoming freshmen in the fall of 2004, and the iPod program continues today with modifications.<ref> </ref> | |||
| ==Criticism== | |||
| {{Criticism section|date=September 2009}} | |||
| ===Battery problems=== | |||
| 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 an iPod.<ref>, ''mp3.com'', 2006-03-13. Retrieved on 2006-07-10.</ref> 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.<ref>, '']'', 2004-02-10. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.</ref> The lawsuits were settled by offering individuals either US$50 store credit or a free battery replacement.<ref>Horwitz, Jeremy. , ''iLounge'', 2005-06-10. Retrieved on 2006-08-27.</ref> | |||
| 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<ref>, '']'', 2006-01-06. Retrieved on 2006-11-30.</ref> (guidelines are available for ]) and this situation led to a market for third-party battery replacement kits. | |||
| Apple announced a battery replacement program on 14 November 2003, a week before<ref>. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.</ref> a high publicity stunt and website by the ].<ref>Neistat, Casey. , 2003-11-20. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> The initial cost was US$99,<ref>, '']'', 2003-11-14. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.</ref> and it was lowered to US$59 in 2005. One week later, Apple offered an extended iPod warranty for US$59.<ref>, '']'', 2003-11-21. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.</ref> For the iPod Nano, ] tools are needed because the battery is soldered onto the main board. Fifth generation iPods have their battery attached to the backplate with adhesive.<ref>Ecker, Clint. , '']'', 2005-10-19. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.</ref><ref>. Retrieved on 2006-11-26.</ref> | |||
| ===Reliability and durability=== | |||
| iPods have been criticized for their short life-span and fragile hard drives. A 2005 survey conducted on the MacInTouch website found that the iPod line had an average failure rate of 13.7% (although they note that comments from respondants indicate that "the true iPod failure rate may be lower than it appears"). It concluded that some models were more durable than others.<ref>, ''MacInTouch'', 2005-11-28. Retrieved on 2006-10-29.</ref> 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.<ref>, '']'', 2005-09-27. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref><ref>Arthur, Charles. , '']'', 2005-09-25. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> A class action lawsuit was also filed.<ref>Fried, Ina. , '']'', 2005-10-21. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> Apple initially considered the issue a minor defect, but later began shipping these iPods with protective sleeves. | |||
| ===Allegations of worker exploitation=== | |||
| On 11 June 2006, the British tabloid '']'' reported that iPods are mainly manufactured by workers who earn no more than US$50 per month and work 15-hour shifts.<ref>, '']'', 2006-06-12. Retrieved on 2007-03-20.</ref> 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.<ref>Millard, Elizabeth. . Retrieved on 2007-03-20.</ref> | |||
| ], Apple's manufacturer, initially denied the abuses,<ref>, ''MacNN'', 2006-06-19. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> but when an auditing team from Apple found that workers had been working longer hours than were allowed under Chinese law, they promised to prevent workers 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 31 December 2006, workers at the Longhua, ] factory (owned by Foxconn) formed a union. The union is affiliated with the world's largest and most powerful federation of trade unions, the ].<ref>Bodeen, Chistopher. , '']'', 2007-01-17. Retrieved on 2007-02-17.</ref> | |||
| ===Social isolation=== | |||
| ], professor of media studies at the ], is concerned that iPods may cause ].<ref>http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=401340§ioncode=26</ref> A school in ], ] decided to ban MP3 players to not only encourage students to communicate with others, but discourage them from being unsociable.<ref>http://www.news24.com/News24/Technology/News/0,,2-13-1443_1679706,00.html</ref> | |||
| ==See also== | |||
| *] | |||
| *] | |||
| ==References== | |||
| {{reflist|2}} | |||
| ==External links== | |||
| {{commons|iPod}} | |||
| {{wikiquote|iPod}} | |||
| *—Official website | |||
| *—From the official website | |||
| *—Brent Schlender, '']'', October 2001 | |||
| *—], '']'', July 2004 | |||
| *—], '']'', November 2006 | |||
| {{iPod}} | |||
| {{iPhone}} | |||
| {{Apple hardware since 1998}} | |||
| {{Apple}} | |||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:Ipod}} | |||
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Revision as of 17:45, 25 October 2009
chillu the chinchilla eat your fail