Appletell unboxing: The new iPod shuffle

Last week Apple released the 3rd generation iPod shuffle. I’ve owned every generation so far; why stop now? I went to my friendly local Apple Store to pick one up, and thought I’d unbox it on video for you guys. It’s no Mac Mini unboxing, but it’s still fun. Let’s see what I got.

Basically, there’s almost nothing to this box. It contains an iPod shuffle, the USB adapter and the special headphones that apparently have an authentication chip. This chip allows Apple to restrict which headphones work with the iPod shuffle. Only companies that Apple approves of (not that money has anything to do with it) will be allowed to officially make shuffle compatible headphones. But enough on that.

You’ll notice the shuffle has no physical buttons. I’m sure we have Steve Jobs to thank for this. So, thanks Steve. I personally don’t mind this, but I know it drives a ton of people nuts.

All of the buttons have been moved to the headphones cable, similar to the set that comes with the iPhone, only with volume adjustments as well. As a result, the shuffle is even smaller than the last generation, and is not offered in any colors. Silver and black. Remember, black is just a shade of grey, it’s not technically a color.

I’ll have the full review up soon after I get a chance to run with this a few times this week. Stay tuned.