At last, Apple's iPod shuffle is no longer the runt of the iPod family. Long overdue for an upgrade since its debut at the start of 2005, the iPod shuffle waited patiently in the wings as Apple rolled out and then upgraded both the iPod nano and 5G iPod.

Apple iPod shuffle (second-generation)

Apple's second-generation iPod shuffle retains the original's no-screen, "give chance a chance" philosophy, but represents about as radical a departure from the first shuffle as you could imagine.

Dramatically smaller in size, the new iPod shuffle does away with the built-in USB connector that made it so easy to justify the first iPod shuffle's purchase in place of a traditional USB thumb drive. That connection has been replaced by a multi-tasking headphone port that also supports USB connectivity through the included dock.

Apple compared the original iPod shuffle's stature to a pack of gum, but the new iPod shuffle looks and feels more like a fine piece of Lindt chocolate. Wrapped in aluminum, the iPod shuffle resembles an iPod nano that's still in the womb.

The built-in clip is very well though-out, increasing the shuffle's size only marginally and making it possible to securely take the iPod shuffle with you anywhere. It also makes cases, skins, and armbands seem completely superfluous: the shuffle is so light weight that it's difficult to substantially mark up the alumnium casing when it's dropped.

Functionally, the new iPod shuffle is identical to the original. The same five-way controller is employed, although the the iPod shuffle now sports two switches: one for on/off (also used to check the battery status) and one for standard/shuffle playback modes. The familiar pin-point green/orange/red LED has been repositioned to the bottom next to those two switches. Included in the package is a set of Apple's original iPod earbuds, not the newer ones Apple recently rolled out that fit more comfortably and sound better.

The Bottom Line

Apple's second-generation iPod shuffle is an elegant marvel of miniaturization, but like the original, it remains unfit for use as a music enthusiasts primary and only iPod, in this reviewer's opinion. The eye-catching form factor and covenient clip are welcome improvements, but the loss of built-in USB thumb drive functionality might make it a harder sell for some buyers, especially when 1GB MP3 players, with a small screen, can be had from other vendors for $20-$30 less than the new iPod shuffle.