The Apple iPod shuffle

The Apple iPod shuffle is the smallest iPod in the current lineup of iPod models. It is a flash-memory MP3 player available in either 512 MB or 1 GB sizes. 

Unlike the iPod 5G or the iPod nano, the iPod shuffle has no display. Instead it relies on the shuffle function to play songs in random order. If desired, songs can also be played according to a playlist, but this playlist has to be built on the computer and transferred to the shuffle.

Because there is no display, the shuffle is tiny - about the size of a pack of chewing gum. Despite the size, the 1 GB shuffle has enough storage space for 240 songs. 

On one end of the shuffle is a USB connector covered with a cap. The shuffle plugs directly into the USB port of your computer for transferring songs and recharging the battery. The iTunes software has a special function for the shuffle - autofill. Every time you plug the shuffle into your computer, it will fill with a new selection of songs. 

The shuffle can also be used as a data storage device for any kind of computer data. This is a handy function when you need to transfer large files from one computer to another.

The click wheel found on other iPod models has been replaced with a circular control pad. The buttons allow you to play or pause the current song, scroll through the song list and adjust the volume. There are also controls for turning the player on and off and checking the battery level. 

Thanks to this pared-down design, the shuffle makes an ideal MP3 player for workouts or other vigorous activity. It is extremely light weight (about the same weight as a house key) and there are no moving parts so the audio will never skip - a problem with hard drive MP3 players.

The idea for the shuffle was reportable inspired by the fact that many iPod users always use the random play function. This iPod will certainly appeal to that crowd, but the lack of display means that you can't build playlists on the fly or pick and choose songs. 

No display also means no features like clock or stop watch, but it seems there is a need for a straightforward MP3 player that does just that - play music. Today the shuffle is one of the most popular MP3 players on the market.

Part of that popularity is the stylish design. With its elegant lines and plain white casing the shuffle is suitable for wearing as an ornament around the neck - possible with the lanyard which is included with the unit.

Another big factor in the popularity of the shuffle is the sound - absolutely superb. It offers near CD quality sound with low noise and distortion specs. To get the most out of the shuffle, though, you should replace the ear buds. They are adequate - but no more. If you are interested in seeing what kind of sound the shuffle is really capable of, get yourself a good set of third-party ear buds.

Have no doubts - despite the relatively low price tag, this is a true iPod, and has the features and sound to prove it.

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