Almost anyone, young or old, from any civilized nation on Earth knows what an iPod is. What they don't know is what exactly "iPod" stands for or the many aspects of the iPod itself. In this article, we will talk about the iPod, what "iPod" stands for, iPod accessories, and appliances that have been built specifically with the iPod in mind.
iPod
The iPod is a handheld digital device that is used to store, transfer, and play music and video files. The iPod comes in many different models but they all have the same basic design which consists of a "clickwheel", a screen, and a lock/unlock switch at the top that can prevent the controls from being accidentally activated whilst sitting in a bag, pocket, or other place where the device can be freely tossed around. In addition to its many models, the iPod comes in a wide variety of colors.
The name "iPod" was constructed by using two unrelated incidents to form a word that is known worldwide. The "i" part of the name is a by-product of the usage of the lowercase "i" in many of Apple's products that started when the company first came out with the iMac, the "i" standing for "internet", which emphasized how the iMac was completely ready to connect to the Internet upon purchase. The "Pod" part of the word "iPod" comes from a suggestion made by Vinnie Chieco, a freelance copywriter hired by Apple to market the device, when seeing the device in action reminded him of the movie "2001: A Space Odyssey" in which the phrase "Open the pod bay doors, Hal!" is spoken, referring to the evacuation pods of the Discovery One spaceship, which the iPod resembles.
The iPod includes a FM/AM radio that is capable of receiving all local frequencies. This allows for the user to switch to radio mode when he or she is bored of their playlist or they want to check on the latest news. Some models of the iPod also include a high quality digital camera that is small, convenient and able to take professional pictures and videos.
iTunes
iTunes is both software and a subcompany of Apple, Inc that offers users a way to organize, synchronize, and download music, videos, and other files to an iPod. iTunes allows you to search your computer for a specific file or folder to upload to your iPod library and the program is required to transfer files onto your iPod due to encryption methods. The program is free, although users have the option to browse the iTunes Store for cheap downloads.
Accessories
The iPod has opened the market for many different attachments and accessories to arise that have been specifically designed with the iPod in mind. Both hardware and software have been created by a number of companies to amplify the functions of the iPod and to enhance the user's experience. Below are several examples of these technologies.
Covers/Cases
A search through any high-end online marketplace such as Amazon,Walmart, or eBay will show you that almost half of all iPod listings are for covers, cases, "skins", and other cosmetic accessories. Many of these covers are very inexpensive and can be purchased in bulk to fit all of your design needs. For as little as $15, including taxes and shipping fees, you can purchase a cover in every available color.
iPod Stereo Systems
Many companies have independently designed and mass produced stereo systems designed specifically for the iPod. Apple itself has developed a docking station that allows you to conveniently and decoratively sit your iPod while it charges and play music through a portable stereo system built in. Most of these stereos are expensive, despite what marketers would have you believe, but deals can be found for used iPod stereo systems on eBay and Amazon.
iTrip
The iTrip, invented by Griffin Technology and released in March of 2006, is a device that can be plugged directly into an iPod via the headphone socket and converts the audio output of the iPod into a constant FM radio signal that can be picked up by any radio within 15 feet. The iTrip, suggested by its name, is great for long road trips or just being in the car as you can use your vehicle's stereo to remotely play the songs from your iPod's playlist. The iTrip comes in 8 different models including the original iTrip, the iTrip Black, the iTrip Mini, the iTrip with LCD, the iTrip with Dock Connector, the iTrip Auto, the iTrip for Nano, and the iTrip for PSP.
