iPod Shuffle

2005

Plastic, assorted metals

Overall (a, Shuffle): 3 1/4 × 1 1/4 × 1/4 in. (8.3 × 3.2 × 0.6 cm)

2012.17a-c

The iPod Shuffle personal audio player was introduced by the California-based Apple Computer, Inc. in 2005. Part of Apple’s iPod family of consumer audio devices, the Shuffle's introduction marked the firm’s entry into the growing market of light, inexpensive digital music players. This example is from the first generation of these devices released in 2005. It weighs under an ounce, is smaller than a key chain, has no screen, and is loaded with 512 MB (megabytes) of flash memory that can hold approximately 240 songs. Designed for limited short-term use, the Shuffle was so named because it randomly “shuffled” the playing order of songs. Apple Inc. reportedly sold 28 million Shuffles in 2005, and from this time assumed dominance of the inexpensive personal listening device market.

DescriptionRectangular personal listening device with rounded sides, and flat bottom and top surfaces; plastic shell exterior; upper surface surmounted with black plastic top; face has two circular buttons that are depressed to operate device, and control play and volume: uppermost button has printed arrow and set of parallel bars at center, surrounded by ring labeled with “+ “ “-“ and two sets of double-arrows. Lower button labeled “MENU.” Interior of device not examined, but likely includes metal and plastic components. Ipod stored in original paper and plastic packaging, which also contains: remote control device, in-ear headphones, instruction card, three paper pamphlets, advertisement, plastic informational c.d., and two unused Apple stickers.

InscribedMarked (on reverse): “Designed by Apple in California Made in China / Model No.: A1156 EMC No.: 2086 / FCC ___ CE ___ / Serial No. 8H627L6DGUSMA”

ClassificationsENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION