Apple’s iPod shuffle has split opinion since its first incarnation back in 2005 when it came on the market.
Looking like a modern USB stick, the shuffle was designed to be extremely easy to use and small enough to be carried anywhere.On the original 1GB memory model, around 240 songs could be downloaded and played with an impressive sound quality through those now iconic white earphones.Due to its ease of use and mobility, the shuffle has, intentionally or unintentionally by Apple, been linked with use whilst exercising.
With the shuffle, there is no screen or any means of finding or specifically selecting which track you want to listen to next, which makes it appropriate for people out and about running who don’t want to be fiddling with a tiny MP3 player whilst trying to exercise.For this purpose the shuffle is ideal, and with the new model being no bigger than your thumb, this MP3 player is more mobile and practical than ever.
The split in opinion comes from music lovers who aren’t content with being limited to random songs from their playlist. After all, not many would willingly follow a Beethoven sonata with “Dizzy” by Vic Reeves!There are times when only a specific track from a certain album is wanted, and without skipping countless songs, that is not possible on the shuffle. Without a screen or a non-random option, the shuffle has ultimately limited itself to the health and fitness market, where in all fairness it does work perfectly well.
If you are looking for an all-round MP3 player, then the shuffle is not for you, but there are hundreds of different models on the market with countless features to choose from.That said, if you really don’t mind the order your songs are played in as you run around the park or work out in the gym, then the shuffle has got you cod.