The iPod is one of the most valuable inventions.  It is perhaps the only gadget that is owned by almost everyone regardless of age, gender, race or culture.  It does not matter how you commute.  It will be visible on the plane, train and even on the bus.  It is common in the gym, the library, and even in schools.  Initially, the iPod was only compatible with Mac computers, but thankfully Apple has made it's mini gadget very affordable and compatible with both PCs and Macs.  iTunes, the software which works with the iPod is so easy to use that even a child can download music with no problem.

Apple has been leading the market with unique and innovative products and the iPod has been one of it's best inventions.  Even though the iPod has been around for years, it continues to lead in popularity.  Invented and marketed from as early as 2001, it can easily be dubbed the most innovative and easy-to-use gadget of the first decade of the twenty first century.

iPods have dramatically changed over the years. There is now a great variety on the market and the prices are considerably lower than when they were first introduced. The iPod varies in size, color and in weight, but it's functionality remains the same. As the changes continue to take place, so do the names which include the iPod mini, the iPod shuffle and the iPod nano. Of equal importance are the changes which have taken place in iTunes to accommodate the changes that are evident in the iPod.

With the invention of the nano, came the ability to download TV movies which could be viewed on its screen. If the screen was too small for viewers, the movies could be easily viewed on a television by using the appropriate cable. What about photographs? Although the iPod was not capable of taking photos, it could store photographs for viewing and, or storing so that the storage space on cameras could be available for more photographs.

More recently, Apple has introduced the iPod classic with 160 GB of storage space. Then there is the iPod touch with 8 GB of space which comes with games and has the capability to download music and movies. It can also be used as an appointment book. In addition, e mail can be sent and received via the internet.

I am delighted by the fact that Apple has now introduced it's latest iPod nano which can actually take photographs and videos that can be uploaded on youtube, facebook and other social networking sites. It is true that an iPod is not a telephone, but thanks to the iPhone, all uses can be combined in one. In addition, the iPhone screen is large enough for great visibility.

The iPod is indeed a multimedia powerhouse. I have owned the 30 GB version which was introduced in 2005. It stores 7,500 songs and it provides 75 hours of video and 25,000 photos. However, the 60 GB version can hold up to 15,000 songs and 150 hours of video.

It can also be used to store contacts, view the calendar, download notes, view notes and play games. In addition to all of the above it is also useful as a clock and a stopwatch. It is packaged with a built in battery which also includes earbuds, an iPod Dock Adapter, a USB Dock connector cable, a protective case, iTunes software and earbuds. The back of the iPod has a mirror like sheen.

The iPod can be used to store audiobooks and compact discs purchased and downloaded from the computer. This is a great asset for people who are trying to form specific habits by listening to certain lectures or motivational speech that have been prerecorded. An ideal time to listen to these is while commuting especially when stuck in traffic, while exercising in a gym or anywhere (even outdoors). There is no limit on where or when to use the iPod. One of the great features about the iPod is that it is so user friendly that unlike the cell phone it does not intrude on other people's space. In other words, other people may not even be aware of your use of the iPod due to the earbuds and the fact that it can be easily hidden in or under clothing.

People who know me well literally identify me as an advocate of Apple products. I own a Mac mini and a MacBook, which I use frequently for both business and pleasure. I am also an avid user of my 30GB iPod, which may be considered outdated at this time, but it serves the purpose for which it was intended. In fact, I rarely retire to bed without listening to the music on my iPod. It is securely seated on my Bose dock which charges it while it plays my favorite songs. Even while the music is not playing, it is being charged. I also transfer photographs from my camera to the iPod occasionally, so that more space can become available on my camera.

I used to take my iPod with me everywhere I went. I did not want to part with it. I would keep it on the dock in my vehicle so that I could listen to it while I drove. However, I lost it too easily and too frequently. Each time I lost it I would panic. I find it to be very valuable. I no longer take it with me when I am leaving the house due to the increase of iPod theft. I am too attached to the music that I have downloaded on it. I dare not risk losing it. In fact, I had an iPod dock in the cigarette lighter of my vehicle one day when I was visiting someone and thieves entered and ransacked the vehicle. A policeman surmised that they were trying to find the iPod. Fortunately, the iPod was at home, since I do not travel with it anymore. I use it mostly in the evenings and at night when I am at home now.

Before I was aware of the existence of Apple products, Hewitt Packard used to be my first choice for computers, printers, copiers, scanners, cameras and other gadgets. However, a friend of mine was instrumental in revolutionizing my thinking. He educated me on the basics of computers and encouraged me to become computer literate. It is no wonder that the first compter I ever purchased was the Mac mini followed by a MacBook. The hard drive of that Mac Mini has since crashed, and I lost everything that I saved on it, but he replaced the hard drive for me.

Thankfully, that was before I heard of hubpages. Now I use it to write my hubs along with my MacBook.I would advise every reader of this hub to purchase an iPod, a MacBook, a Mac Mini or some other Apple product, it is about time you purchase at least one. Now is the time to buy. You don't know what you are missing. it is best to start your Christmas shopping from now to avoid the crowd's hustle and bustle later on. In addition, why not spend the money while you have it on you now.  There is no guarantee that you will have any money for Christmas.  You know the saying make hay while the sun shines.  Have fun shopping.

According to the Wikipedia:

iPods have won several awards ranging from engineering excellence, to most innovative audio product, to fourth best computer product of 2006. iPods often receive favorable reviews; scoring on looks, clean design, and ease of use. PC World says that iPod line has "altered the landscape for portable audio players".

In addition to its reputation as a respected entertainment device, iPods have also become accepted as business devices. Government departments, major institutions and international organisations have turned to the iPod line as a delivery mechanism for business communication and training, such as the Royal and Western Infirmaries in Glasgow, Scotland, where iPods are used to train new staff.

iPods have also gained popularity for use in education. Apple offers more information on educational uses for iPods on their website, including a collection of lesson plans. There has also been academic research done in this area in nursing education and more general K-16 education. Duke University provided iPods to all incoming freshmen in the fall of 2004, and the iPod program continues today with modifications.

According to ars reviews:

The nano's video camera is not the best pocketable video camera on the market. The nano is, however, a very thin and light portable media player that is capable of taking good-enough SD videos for uploading to YouTube. Like the iPhone 3GS, you're not going to be shooting any award-winning documentaries on it, but when you already carry around an iPod, convenience often wins. When combined with the plethora of other features supported by the nano--music of course, video playback, Nike+, pedometer, Voice memos, and radio capabilities--there are certainly many things to like about this 8GB for $149 (or 16GB for $179 ) player.

Therefore the word is, if you are a professional looking for a camera or a camcorder to make a living with, the iPod nano is not for you. However, if you are like most of us who actually listen to music, exercise, capture videos and photos for a hobby then the new iPod nano is an ideal purchase. Why not take the time to check out these below. You might get a bargain. Perhaps you already have the latest iPod. You might want to try the MacBook. It is ideal for the iPod.   They are both mobile and you will be the envy of friends and family.  I know because I am speaking from experience.