iPod Anniversary: Apple’s Music Player Turns 24, Legacy Lives On in iPhone

The iconic iPod is 24 years old. Apple launched the first-generation device on November 10, 2001. It changed how people listened to music. The product line is now discontinued, but its influence remains.

Apple officially ended the iPod line in 2022. The spirit of the device lives on in the iPhone and other Apple products. This anniversary highlights a pivotal moment in tech history.

The Surprising Launch That Reshaped an Industry

Early rumors were largely wrong. According to MacRumors, some predicted a PDA called the “iWalk.” Others guessed it was a component for a home stereo system. The actual product was a complete surprise.

The first iPod cost $399. It featured a 5GB hard drive and a revolutionary scroll wheel. This storage was massive for its time. It could hold about 1,000 songs in your pocket.

Initial reactions were mixed. Some users complained about the price and the shiny, fingerprint-prone back. Others noted it was only for Mac users. Despite this, many recognized its groundbreaking potential.

From Music Player to Cultural Touchstone

The iPod’s success was undeniable. It spurred many updated models like the Mini, Nano, and Shuffle. These devices became fashion statements and cultural icons. They made digital music mainstream.

Its legacy directly led to the iPhone. Apple used the iPod’s foundation to build its smartphone. The iPhone eventually made the standalone music player obsolete. Apple’s marketing chief confirmed the iPod’s spirit continues in all their products.

The final iPod model was discontinued in 2022. Apple made a rare official announcement to mark its end. The company acknowledged the device’s profound impact on its history.

The iPod’s 24th anniversary marks a key moment in consumer technology. Its legacy is permanently woven into the fabric of modern Apple devices. The spirit of the iPod continues to influence product design today.

Thought you’d like to know

When was the iPod officially discontinued?

Apple discontinued the iPod line in May 2022. The last model available was the iPod touch. The company stated the product’s spirit lives on in its other devices.

How much did the first iPod cost?

The original iPod launched with a $399 price tag. It came with 5GB of storage. This was considered expensive for an MP3 player in 2001.

What was the iPod’s storage capacity?

The first-generation iPod featured a 5GB hard drive. This could hold roughly 1,000 songs. Later models significantly increased this capacity.

Why did Apple stop making the iPod?

The iPhone made the iPod redundant. Smartphones could handle music playback and much more. Consumer demand shifted towards multi-function devices.

Could Apple revive the iPod?

It is considered very unlikely. The market for a dedicated music player has largely disappeared. Apple’s focus is on integrated devices like the iPhone.

Trusted Sources

MacRumors