This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
iPod, uPod, airPod
Attention LAXers, BURbankinos, ONTarioids, John Wayne SNAholes and LGBeachettes… !!
Six airlines announced yesterday that they will be adding iPod connections to their fleet of big Tylenols. For those flying the friendly skies on United, Continental, Delta, Emirates, KLM and Air France you will soon have the power to run and charge your iPod while in flight, as well as watch videos on the seat-back display of the fidgety, sweaty guy in front of you.
And ooh, ouch Microsoft. This announcement came practically in unison with the launch of their much ballyhooed “iPod killer” Zune. Current estimates show Apple as the proud seller of nearly 70 million iPods, and more than 1.5 billion songs through iTunes. In addition, 70+ percent of all new autos sold in the United States this year are expected to have iPod integration.
Naysayer-doomsdayer analysts have “voiced concern that there is limited room for growth in the iPod's market share because it already has more than 75% of the U.S. market for digital music players.” Sounds like someone’s not thinking outside the pod.
Let’s reminisce about what Apple has done so far… They made an iPod with a scroll wheel and a few gigs. Then one with a touch wheel and way more gigs. Then pictures. Then minis. Then nanos. Then smaller nanos. Then video. Then shuffles. Then bigger video. Then smaller shuffles. You get the point.
They will keep making better what you already like, and/or create something new that you’ll love even more. And now, their shiny little devices can jive with your car and your airplanes. Soon, all you’ll have to do is think about what song you want to hear, and it will play in your head. To recharge, just take a nap. And payment? Direct payment from brainwaves to bank account. Nothing short of complete and total assimilation will suffice.
Sponsored message
Resistance is futile.
Aerial Photo by mamamusings via Flickr
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
