The iPod classic
Forgotten Technology · 2007
Published
Apple introduced the iPod classic in September 2007 as the high-capacity continuation of its dedicated music player. Sold in 80GB and 160GB versions, it carried music, podcasts, photos, videos and games inside an all-metal body. Cover Flow added a visual way to browse albums, while the click wheel and iTunes synchronisation kept the familiar iPod routine intact.
Why It Mattered
At a moment when phones were beginning to absorb more functions, the iPod classic remained unapologetically focused on carrying a personal media library. Its storage made thousands of songs—and increasingly video—available without relying on a mobile connection or turning the player into a phone.
The original iPod line
- Apple's 2001 iPod launch specified a 5GB hard drive, up to 1,000 songs and automatic iTunes synchronisation.
- The original model connected to a Mac over FireWire.
Classic capacity
- The 2007 iPod classic launched with 80GB or 160GB of storage.
- Apple described the sixth-generation model as having an all-metal enclosure.
- Apple rated the 160GB model for up to 40,000 songs or 200 hours of video.
Media workflow
- iTunes imported, managed and synchronised music, video, podcasts and games.
- The sixth-generation interface included Cover Flow and three preloaded games.
Associated With
Apple - creator and manufacturer, brand
Defining Feature
An 80GB or 160GB portable player with a colour display, Click Wheel interface and iTunes synchronisation
Status
Discontinued - Introduced in 2007 as the sixth-generation iPod
Primary Records
Image Sources
- All one image sources are not yet verified — editorial review required.
Rights Notice
Images are included for historical and archival reference.
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Gallery
Credit
Evan-Amos / Wikimedia Commons
Licence
Public domain
This image is recorded as public domain. Its source provides the provenance.
Caption
The iPod classic made a large personal music collection portable, with a click wheel and dedicated storage rather than the streaming services that later reshaped listening.