Apple has confirmed that it is 'simplifying' its product lineup by discontinuing its once-popular iPod nano and iPod shuffle MP3 players.
Both gadgets were sneakily removed from Apple's websites and online stores in the last 24 hours, with the company later confirming that each iPod variant would no longer be produced or sold.
The decision to eliminate both older products from Apple's lineup is hardly shocking: neither device has received an update in more than five years (2010 for the iPod shuffle, and 2012 for the nano). Instead, Apple will focus on the still-available iPod touch, which retails in Australia for $299 for the 32GB model, and $449 for 128GB.
Stay modern with the iPod touch
Unlike the now-defunct iPod nano and shuffle, the iPod touch runs on iOS and offers smartphone-like features, such as a fully-functional camera, gaming, and apps such as Messages, FaceTime, and social media.
Essentially, the iPod touch is an iPhone without cellular connectivity (and without the phone). And considering the previous pricing of the iPod nano - $279 for 16GB, $349 for 32GB, $419 for 64GB, and $579 for 128GB - it makes sense more customers would pick the feature-packed touch over its predecessors.
Go retro with the iPod classic
As of today, the iPod nano and iPod shuffle join Apple's iPod classic in i-obscurity. But if you're big on nostalgia and have an extensive MP3 collection, you can still find both the nano and shuffle on sale at third party retailers, and versions of all three devices up for auction on eBay.
In fact, if you're really into that early 2000s retro feel, you can find modified and refurbished iPod classics - each including an all-new, 256GB solid State Flash Memory Drive (SSD) - up for sale through eBay retailers, many of whom offer 12-month warranties. The added SSD means you'll get a more durable and reliable product, with longer-lasting battery life and overall increased performance when compared to an standard iPod hard drive.
Of course, if you'd rather just go all the way and pick up Apple's premier product, the iconic iPhone, there's no need to scour the interwebs for the best deal. Click below to start comparing iPhone plans and offers from all the leading telcos.
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