Scosche’s tapSTICK for the iPod shuffle attempts to fix the biggest problem with Apple’s super miniature MP3 player: the controls/headphones. The tapSTICK takes the controls that started out on the headphone cable and moves them back onto the device. Or rather, on a case that slides over one side of the device. And I’m so glad that it does. The tapSTICK is moisture resistant, and it allows you to use any set of headphones that you want to.

If the iPod shuffle was art, it would be beautiful. If it was a concept design, then it would be elegant. If it was functional, it would be amazing. Wait, what was that last one again? It’s not functional? You read correctly. The iPod shuffle is quite possibly the only piece of Apple gear I’ve been unhappy enough with to actually return. Let me explain why.