New iPod Shuffles come with old iPod earbuds
[Alternative title for this post: “Hey, we gotta get rid of that stock somehow.”]
The first batch of the new iPod Shuffles has already reached the hands of those who hurried to order it immediately after its announcement, on September 12. As with all Apple products, pictures of the new $80 device, its packaging and accessories have flooded the Internet.
What is interesting to note is that the new Shuffles don’t come with the new, improved iPod earbuds that were also presented on the same day by the company’s CEO, Steve Jobs.
If you were thinking the best “value-for-money” way to obtain the new iPod earbuds was via an iPod Shuffle purchase, think again. Photo credit goes to Jeremy Smith / AppleInsider.
Photo credit goes to Flickr user *nathan.
Instead, in the box you’ll find the regular earbuds that used to accompany all iPod products till the introduction of the iPod 5.5G (updated iPod with video) and iPod Nano 2G (updated iPod Nano)—remember that these two do come with the new buds.
Steve Jobs, presenting the new iPod earbuds on September 12.
Photo credit goes to Engadget.
The new earbuds are supposed to be an improvement over the previous model, mainly in terms of ergonomics: they’re reportedly easier to wear with an improved shape and a soft-rubber outer edge that provides a better fit. You can buy them separately for $29 but if you’re going to spend money for headphones, there are better options—Apple’s offering is pretty decent but only when judged within the “headphones that come standard, in the box” context.
There’s still no word whether new Shuffle batches will come with the updated earbuds. You can get the new iPod shuffle from Amazon for $80.
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This is cheap. If I were buying this and had seen the new buds I would expect it to contain them being a new product form Apple.
I bet you’re right – they are probably finding ways to shift old stock. It wouldn’t supprise me if in a few months (when they use up the old stock) all new shuffles come with new buds.
...added by David /// November 21st, 2006 at 19:35 PM
I wear my old ipod ear buds in an unorthodox manner, they are basically upside down (with the wire looped behind my ear) and slightly angled so the face of the earphone is pressed against the Tragus. It is the most comfortable earbud i’ve ever experience this way. the “new” retooled earbuds can not be worn this way and end up being infinitely more uncomfortable. I just lost my last pair of older style earbuds and am saddened greatly by the complete lack of availability for the older style.
...added by Gene /// December 22nd, 2007 at 05:39 AM