1/13/2005

So Apple announced their flash iPod finally. Nice move, at least from a Japanese perspective. iPod is very popular here, but flash players still sell like hot cakes…

In fact, the choice is huge and big electronics shops in Tokyo still carry a lot of fancy MiniDisc players. But the trend is definitely moving toward the mp3 players, and the most recognizable icon of that is of course the iPod mini. Talents on TV are starting to say “iPod” as a generic name, instead of “mp3 player”. But flash based players are still very popular, mostly because they are more affordable, sometimes cuter, and smaller.

Here is the MiniDisc display at Yodobashi, one of the biggest electronic stores, in Shinjuku:

They still do a lot of promo on these products. Ads on TV and in the trains, posters… And even the players themselves are very cool, with leds that change colors, or like this Panasonic one. It blends in a dock which features transparent speakers.

And this is what the mp3 players areas (three steps away) look like:

First picture is iPod only, second one is a mix of all the other, where there is a majority of flash based players.

So, if you are not yet convinced by the iPod Shuffle, have a look at the V@mp tiny gadgets called VP-228, VP-328, and VP-428. They come in 128, 256, and 512Mb and are priced at approx. US$100, US$130, and US$180 depending on the model.

It has a clam shell shape and can fold both ways. Inside, you’ll find the USB key, and two mini speakers (2x 0.5 mW). They also inluded an FM receiver for those who like to listen to the radio. It plays WMA, ASF, and MP3 files. And has two small lcd screens.

But since it only works with Windows, and has USB 1.1, I’m sure Apple will sell a lot of iPod shuffle in Japan too…