milestones
October 23, 2001 Apple unexpectedly announces the first iPod (codename Dulcimer) at a price of $399. Unlike most (but not all) competing digital audio players available at the time, Apple relies on a hard disk for storage instead of flash memory or interchangeable CD-ROMs, and uniquely focuses on promoting the small size, power, and ease of use of its device. The first iPod has a 5 GB storage capacity - enough for over 1,000 songs - and works only on Macs, using iTunes as a music organization and CD-to-iPod conversion tool.
Going Windows (The 2nd Generation)
The most popular iPod accessory was a utility that allowed users to sync an iPod's playlists with a Windows PC. Apple took note and made the July 2002 version of the iPod - now with as much as 20 GB of storage space - compatible with Windows PC through MusicMatch. Apple also included PIM software on the iPod.
The original spinning scroll wheel was replaced by a solid state scroll wheel similar to a notebook's touchpad. It continued to be surrounded by a ring of buttons just like the 1G iPod.To the surprise of many, Apple started engraving iPods with text and even graphics. Several bands and companies licensed their logos to Apple, which
engraved them on the back of the device.
The 3rd Generation
The most popular iPod accessory was a utility that allowed users to sync an iPod's playlists with a Windows PC. Apple took note and made the July 2002 version of the iPod - now with as much as 20 GB of storage space - compatible with Windows PC through MusicMatch. Apple also included PIM software on the iPod.
The original spinning scroll wheel was replaced by a solid state scroll wheel similar to a notebook's touchpad. It continued to be surrounded by a ring of buttons just like the 1G iPod.To the surprise of many, Apple started engraving iPods with text and even graphics. Several bands and companies licensed their logos to Apple, which
engraved them on the back of the device.
The 4th Generation
The iPod was a huge hit. Apple had sold millions of devices and was raking in money. BMW outfitted all of its vehicles with an iPod interface that allows BMW owners to play their music over the BMW's sound system and control their iPod through the steering wheel.Obvious differences in size, thickness, and materials aside, the iPod has gone through a number of changes since its debut in 2001. While the first-generation (1G) and second-generation (2G) iPods featured a FireWire data port up top next to the headphone port and hold switch, this data port was removed from the top of third-generation (3G) iPods, fourth-generation (4G) iPods, iPod minis and iPod photos in favor of a bottom-mounted Dock Connector port.
A Complete Overhaul(Touch)
The real excitement comes from the iPod touch, which looks a lot like the iPhone. In fact, it's basically an iPhone without the phone and camera - it runs OS X, has 802.11n WiFi, and is a bit smaller than the iPhone.
