Back in August, I was debating whether I should get the 15 Gigabyte iPod, or the iPod mini. It was hard to decide between the two, but after long debate, I eventually decided upon the 15 Gigabyte iPod, mainly because it could hold more songs. On February 23, 2005, Apple unveiled the new second-generation iPod mini. The price of the first generation 4Gigabyte model, which was originally $249, was dropped to $199. Apple also introduced a new 6 Gigabyte model priced at $249, and increased the mini’s battery life to over 18 hours. Once I heard this, I knew it was a calling to purchase an iPod mini. And I did so on April 1, 2005.
Out of the Box
The unpacking experience of the mini was as exciting as my first iPod’s. Probably because Apple dropped a few of the neat accessories that used to come with the mini. Included with the mini’s are:
1. A USB 2.0 to iPod cable.
2. A belt clip
3. Directions/Manuals
4. Apple stickers
5. A CD which included iTunes and an iPod updater.
6. Apple’s signature earbud headphones.
7. A beautiful, 3.6oz little iPod.
Installing Software + iTunes
Installing the iPod’s software is pretty self-explanatory. I admit I did have a lot of trouble, which is sad considering this is my second time doing it. The computer wouldn’t recognize the iPod at first, but then it did all of a sudden. Didn’t really find out why. Once the computer recognizes your iPod, all you do is add songs to your library, then drag them from your library to the little iPod icon in iTunes, eject the iPod, and you’re ready to go!
Handing the iPod
Because of Apple’s Click Wheel, you never have to use your thumb! All you have to do is rotate your thumb around the sensitive wheel in the center of the iPod, while slightly pressing down every once in a while to select something, access the main menu, or to skip, pause or play songs. Also, the new click wheel is not as sensitive as the iPod’s old touch wheel, meaning your iPod won’t unexpectedly turn when your clothes brushes a button. No more battery drainage!
Battery
I didn’t estimate when I should have started running a battery test, so I ended up falling asleep shortly after the iPod hit 16 hours of continuous playback, which is good enough for me! I’ll have to get back to this part once I run a full battery test. And in case you’re wondering, it takes 2 hours for the iPod to charge to 80%, and 4 hours to fully charge.
Extras
Besides just being able to play songs, the iPod comes with some special features:
Calendar
Contacts
Alarm Clock
Text Notes
Games
Pros: Small, attractive, excellent battery life and design, scratch resistant, sturdy, LED backlight, easy to use.
Cons: Doesn’t include power adapter, expensive, grayscale LCD.
Reccomended: Yes
Rating: 8.5/10
And my iPod Station has been happy ever since.
Pictures
Opening the box.
The belt clip.
Smaller than a cell phone!
Size compared to U.S. Currency
Size compared to a poker-sized card.
