iPod Shuffle 3rd Generation

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:16:34 -0500

Jolene and I were on our spring break trip to Kansas City (had a great time by the way) and we just happened to be near an Apple store when Apple surprised us by announcing the new iPod Shuffle.

Let’s face it, it was an easy sell. I didn’t necessarily need a new iPod, in fact, my old shuffle works just fine. However, I kind of view these iPods as little works of art so I don’t mind purchasing them with that in mind.

Best Feature: It speaks to you.
Since the Shuffle doesn’t have any buttons (other than power), you use the controls on the iPod headphones to control what you listen to. This is no different than the old Shuffle, it just means that you use the button on the wire of your headphones instead of the traditional faux click wheel the shuffle provided. Anyway, if you want to know the name of the song/Podcast/Audiobook that you are listening to, no problem, it will tell you. It also allows you to select a playlist if you set one up in iTunes. Very nice.

Worst Feature: Headphones.
I really don’t like the stock iPod headphones that come with iPods. They don’t fit my ears well and they hurt after a while. I did just recently pick up Apple’s new in-ear headphones however, and they are worth every penny. Very well done and they work beautifully with the Shuffle. In fact, I don’t think I would like the new shuffle if it weren’t for Apple’s new in ear headphones.

Conclusion
If you are going to buy the new Shuffle, make sure you pick up the new in-ear headphones. It is definitely worth it. Is it worth upgrading over the older shuffle, actually, I would say yes. The ability to change the tracks/volume from the headphones and the ability to have playlists make it a must upgrade if you use the Shuffle a lot. However, if you just occasionally use it, you definitely won’t be missing a lot.

iMac’s unannounced feature.

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:17:16 -0500

So, I recently got an iMac and I must say my favorite feature about this thing is that it fixes your neck. Couldn’t believe that was an actual feature. Obviously, I am kidding, well kind of. Three years ago I bought a MacBook for Law School. I have used that as my exclusive machine since the day that I bought it. I worked on it at the library, in the classroom, in my office, and on my couch. Hence, my neck hurting.

Since I got the iMac, I have not been waking up with such a neck ache or head ache. Who would of guessed that Apple could solve this. What’s next, iPhone frying pan?