18 Years Ago, Steve Jobs Showed The World The iPod Nano: A Retrospective

Apple Inc.'s AAPL iPod Nano turns 18 today. Steve Jobs introduced the iPod Nano to the world on Sept. 7, 2005, while his competitors were focused on mimicking the iPod Mini. It witnessed significant changes over seven iterations before being discontinued in 2017.

Happy 18th, iPod Nano

The iPod Nano marked a pivotal moment in Apple’s history. This sleek and compact digital music player revolutionized how people listened to music and epitomized Apple’s commitment to innovative design and consumer technology.

Its arrival also brought a new level of portability, style, and functionality to the world of personal music players.

See Also: This Day In Apple History: Steve Jobs Resigned As CEO 12 Years Ago And Handed Reins To Tim Cook

The Birth

The iPod Nano was introduced to the world in iconic Jobs style. Despite the iPod's success – it was the most popular MP3 player in the world at the time – Apple didn't hesitate to launch the Nano.

"We're gonna do something bold today. We're gonna replace it with something new," Jobs said to a roaring crowd.

"The iPod Nano is the biggest revolution since the iPod," Jobs said. He pointed at the watch pocket in his pair of jeans and asked the crowd what it would be used for.

"Ever wonder what this pocket's for? I've always wondered that. Well, now we know because this is the new iPod [Nano]," he said, pulling out the iPod Nano and showing it to the world for the first time.

Apple launched the iPod Nano with up to 4GB capacity, starting at $199. The first million units were sold in 17 days, helping Apple make a record $1 billion profit in 2005.

Evolution Of The iPod Nano

Over the years, the iPod Nano underwent several transformations to keep up with evolving technology and consumer demands. Subsequent generations featured improved storage capacity, enhanced battery life, and additional features such as video playback and a built-in FM radio.

The third-generation Nano, released in 2007, introduced a square form factor with a larger screen. The fourth-generation model brought accelerometer-based games and shake-to-shuffle functionality. The fifth-generation Nano incorporated a video camera, making it a versatile multimedia device.

The Decline

However, with smartphones gaining popularity and quickly becoming an all-in-one device for music, calling, texting, and more, the iPod Nano was inching towards its discontinuation.

The final iteration of the iPod Nano, the seventh generation, was released in 2012. It featured a 2.5-inch multitouch display and came with 16GB storage capacity. Priced at $149, it was the last of its kind before Apple ceased production of the iPod Nano in 2017.

The iPod Nano is now a vintage Apple product, but its significance as a portable music player remains etched in the hearts of Apple and music fans.

Image Credits – Shutterstock

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