The iPod Shuffle, Apple Inc.’s smallest model in its line of iPod-brand portable media products, is a flash-memory-based, economy-sized (and priced) dedicated audio playback device. The latest release in the iPod line, the Shuffle was first introduced to consumers in March 2009, and resembles the shape and size of a small cigarette lighter, able to fit in the palm of one’s hand. Available in 2 and 4-GB models, the iPod Shuffle is a surprisingly sophisticated portable music player (especially considering that it lacks a view screen or the trademarked ‘circle wheel’ design common on most iPod models). The Shuffle still offers many advanced features despite the affordable, streamlined design.

One of the more unique features available on an iPod Shuffle is the VoiceOver playlist identification system. While listening to songs with your iPod Shuffle, pressing a button on the unfamiliar tracks will trigger an automated computer voice to chime the name and title of the current song, without a user having to stop playback and hunt for the title on iTunes manually. For those who are only interested in music, the iPod Shuffle represents a more affordable investment than the other models with higher storage sizes, video playback capabilities and a bigger price tag. As the world’s smallest music player, the iPod Shuffle can easily clip onto a runner’s shirt in a much more efficient method of listening-while-you-jog compared to the comparatively bulky models represented in other music players (and even other iPod models).

The controls are on the side of the Shuffle, allowing those who are busy with work or exercise while listening to keep their eyes on other things while navigating through music files. The user interface is extremely minimalist in design, yet intuitive in practice. There are only 3 buttons on the iPod Shuffle—2 buttons for increasing/decreasing the volume, and the center ‘action’ button. Clicking the action button once will play or pause a track. Double-clicking it advances to the next track, while triple-clicking goes to a previous track. Holding the action button down will trigger the VoiceOver feature, and holding it down for longer (until a tone is heard) will allow switching between playlists. Switching playlists also uses the VoiceOver feature to name various playlists out loud, and a single click when the desired playlist is announced will switch over to that one instantly. VoiceOver is currently available in over 20 different languages, ensuring that lovers of all types of music genres can enjoy the remarkable features offered by the iPod Shuffle.

Additional features of the iPod Shuffle include the ability to synch with a Mac or PC to set up music playlists. Using a computer is the best way to add to the Shuffle’s music library as well, and using iTunes will give extra options to further edit playlists and libraries. The Shuffle is available in a variety of different colors: red, green, blue, metallic black, and metallic silver. With a rechargeable lithium battery that lasts up to 10 hours and the ability to support a variety of different audio formats, the iPod Shuffle is a dream come true for the frugal music-lover-on-the-go.

Current iPod Shuffle Deals on ebay

Apple iPod shuffle 1st Generation 1 GB US $5.99 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 4th Generation Blue 2 GB Latest Model US $15.50 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 2nd Generation Silver 1 GB US $42.85 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 3rd Generation Black 4 GB US $32.01 Get More Details

Apple Ipod Shuffle 1gb Brand New US $65.00 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 2nd Generation Green 2 GB US $17.50 Get More Details

APLLE IPOD SHUFFLE 4th GENERATION PINK2 GB MINT CONDITION US $50.00 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 2nd Generation Pink 1 GB US $35.00 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 4th Generation Silver 2 GB Latest Model US $30.00 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 3rd Generation Blue 2 GB US $40.00 Get More Details

US Apple iPod Shuffle 2nd Gen 1 GB MP3 Player Blue Grade A US $328.99 Get More Details

Apple iPod shuffle 3rd Generation Black 2 GB used US $32.50 Get More Details