iPod U2 Special Edition with Video Explained

iPod U2 Special Edition
Source: apple.com – iPod U2 Special Edition

In 2006, Apple unveiled a special treat for both music enthusiasts and devoted fans of the iconic Irish rock band U2—the Apple iPod U2 Special Edition with Video (iPod U2 3rd Generation). This limited edition portable MP3 player marked a unique collaboration between Apple, U2, and Universal Music Group, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and artistic flair.

The iPod U2 Special Edition was introduced alongside much anticipation, as Apple enthusiasts awaited the latest innovation from the tech giant. Built upon the foundation of the fifth-generation 30 GB iPod, this special edition device boasted impressive storage capacity, capable of holding up to 7,500 songs, 25,000 photos, or over 75 hours of video content.

What truly set the iPod U2 Special Edition apart was its striking design. Encased in a sleek, all-black stainless steel enclosure, adorned with a vibrant red Click Wheel, and graced with custom engravings of U2 band member signatures, this device exuded elegance and sophistication. It was more than just a music player; it was a statement piece for U2 enthusiasts.

To sweeten the deal for fans, Apple included 30 minutes of exclusive U2 video content, available for download from the iTunes Music Store. Moreover, the iPod seamlessly integrated with the iTunes Music Store and iTunes digital music jukebox, offering unparalleled convenience for users to access their favorite music, podcasts, videos, and more.

The iPod U2 Special Edition made its grand debut on June 6, 2006, garnering significant attention from both music lovers and tech aficionados alike. Priced at $329, it promised not only a premium listening experience but also a piece of music history, packaged in an exclusive U2 box set complete with a poster and a $50-off coupon for the iTunes Store.

Despite its initial popularity, the iPod U2 Special Edition with Video was short-lived, with Apple discontinuing it on September 12, 2006. Nevertheless, its impact resonates to this day, serving as a nostalgic relic of an era when music met technology in perfect harmony.

While the iPod U2 Special Edition may no longer be available for purchase, its memory lives on in the hearts of fans and collectors. For those fortunate enough to own one, it remains a cherished keepsake—an emblem of an unforgettable collaboration between two cultural icons, Apple and U2.

In the annals of music and technology history, the Apple iPod U2 Special Edition with Video occupies a special place—a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and artistic expression. Though it may have been discontinued 17 years ago, its legacy endures, reminding us of a time when music transcended boundaries and brought joy to millions around the world.

As we reflect on the journey of the iPod U2 Special Edition, let us celebrate its enduring impact and cherish the memories it has given us. In the realm of music and technology, some creations are not just gadgets; they are timeless artifacts that shape our cultural landscape for years to come.

iPod U2 SE with Video
Source: apple.com – iPod U2 SE with Video

iPod U2 Special Edition with Video Details

IntroducedJune 6, 2006 – 17 years ago
DiscontinuedSeptember 12, 2006 – 17 years ago
Time on the Market98 days (3 months)
Model NumberA1136
EMC2065
Order NumberMA452LL/A
Original Price$329
ColorsBlack with Red Click Wheel
Weight4.8 oz. – 136 Grams
Dimensions4.1” H x 2.4” W x 0.43″ D
10.41 cm H x 6.09 cm W x 1.09 cm D

iPod U2 Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorPortalPlayer PP5021C (Dual ARM 7TDMI)
Processor SpeedUp to 80 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores2
Cache8 KB per processor

Storage

Storage30 GB

Display

Built-in Display2.5″ 260,000-color QVGA LCD Display with white LED-backlit
Resolutions320 x 240 pixels

Media

Audio FormatsAAC
MP3
MP3 (VBR)
Audible
WAV
AIFF
Apple Lossless
Photo FormatsJPEG
BMP
GIF
TIFF
PNG
PSD (Mac only)
Video FormatsH.264 video: up to 768 Kbps, 320 x 240, 30 frames per sec.,
Baseline Profile up to Level 1.3 with AAC-LC up to 160 Kbps, 48 Khz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4 and .mov file formats.
MPEG-4 video: up to 2.5 Mbps, 480 x 480, 30 frames per sec.,
Simple Profile with AAC-LC up to 160 Kbps, 48 Khz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4 and .mov file formats

Connections

Ports1 – 30-pin Dock Connector
1 – 3.5-mm stereo jack
CameraNone

Controls

ControlsPlay/Pause
Next title
Previous title
Menu
Hold
Click wheel

Software

Maximum OS1.3
iTunesiTunes 7.0 or later
System RequirementsMac OS X 10.3.9 or later
Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 or later
Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 2 or later

Accessories

AccessoriesEarbud headphones
Case
USB cable
Dock Adapter

Power

BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Battery CapacityUnknown
Battery LifeUp to 14 hours of music (30 GB)
Up to 3 hours of slideshows with music (30 GB)
Up to 2 hours of video (30 GB)
Charge TimeUp to 4 hours
2 hour to 80% capacity
PowerCharging via FireWire, USB 2, or power adapter

Do you like this article?

Let’s go social and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or Threads, to stay updated.

Further Reading and References

Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.