iPod 4th Generation Explained

iPod 4th Generation
Source: apple.com – iPod 4th Generation

In the realm of portable music players, one device stands out as a true game-changer: Apple’s iPod 4th Generation, affectionately known as the “iPod with Click Wheel.” Unveiled on July 19, 2004, this sleek gadget swiftly ascended to must-have status among music enthusiasts, revolutionizing the way people experienced their favorite tunes.

Apple’s fourth-generation iPod marked a significant leap forward in the evolution of portable digital music players. Sporting Apple’s groundbreaking Click Wheel, a fusion of seamless touch-sensitive scrolling and intuitive push-button controls, navigating through music libraries became a seamless, one-handed affair. With up to 12 hours of battery life and the introduction of “Shuffle Songs,” users found themselves immersed in an unparalleled auditory experience.

One of the defining features of the iPod series has always been its seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. Compatible with iTunes, the revolutionary digital jukebox available on both Mac and Windows platforms, users could effortlessly sync their entire music library with their iPod. Moreover, with the advent of Auto-Sync technology, keeping the device updated was as simple as plugging it into a computer via FireWire or USB.

iPod 4th Gen
Source: apple.com – iPod 4th Gen

The acclaim for the iPod 4th Generation was not confined to Apple’s headquarters. With endorsements from industry leaders like Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO, and Carly Fiorina, then CEO of HP, the device garnered widespread recognition for its exceptional design and functionality. HP even announced plans to integrate the iPod into its digital entertainment strategy, further solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.

At the heart of the iPod with Click Wheel lay its impressive features. Boasting a vibrant 2-inch white LED-backlit LCD screen and a user-friendly Click Wheel, navigating through vast music libraries became a joyous endeavor. With storage options of 20 GB and 40 GB, users could carry thousands of songs in their pockets, ensuring that their favorite tunes were always within arm’s reach.

Upon its release, the iPod 4th Generation was priced at $299 for the 20 GB model and $399 for the 40 GB model, making it an accessible luxury for many consumers. Available through the Apple Store, Apple retail outlets, and authorized resellers, it came bundled with essential accessories including earbud headphones, charging cables, and iTunes software.

Despite its meteoric rise to fame, the iPod with Click Wheel’s reign was relatively short-lived. Discontinued on June 28, 2005, it left an indelible mark on the world of portable music players. However, its legacy endures, cherished by music lovers worldwide as a timeless classic.

iPod 4th Gen
Source: apple.com – iPod 4th Gen

As we reflect on the 19-year anniversary of the iPod 4th Gen, its impact on portable music players is undeniable. From its revolutionary Click Wheel to its seamless integration with iTunes, this iconic device reshaped the way we interacted with music on the go. While it may no longer grace store shelves, its spirit lives on, immortalized in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to experience its magic.

iPod with Click Wheel
Source: apple.com – iPod with Click Wheel

iPod 4th Generation Details

IntroducedJuly 19, 2004 – 19 years ago
DiscontinuedFebruary 23, 2005 (40 GB) – 19 years ago
June 28, 2005 (20 GB) – 18 years ago
Time on the Market344 days (11 months)
Model NumberA1059
EMC1995
Order NumberM9282LL/A (20 GB)
M9268LL/A (40 GB)
Original Price$299 (20 GB)
$399 (40 GB)
ColorsWhite
Weight5.6 oz. – 158 Grams (20 GB)
6.2 oz. – 175 Grams (40 GB)
Dimensions4.1” H x 2.4” W x 0.57” – 0.69″ D
10.41 cm H x 6.09 cm W x 1.44 – 1.75 cm D

iPod Tech Specs

Processor

ProcessorPortalPlayer PP5002 (Dual ARM 7TDMI)
Processor SpeedUp to 80 MHz
Architecture32-bit
Number of Cores2
Cache8 KB per processor

Storage

Storage20 GB
40 GB

Display

Built-in Display2″ white LED-backlit LCD Display
Resolutions160 x 128 pixels

Media

Audio FormatsAAC
MP3
MP3 (VBR)
Audible
WAV
AIFF
Apple Lossless
Photo FormatsNone
Video FormatsNone

Connections

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

Controls

ControlsPlay/Pause
Next title
Previous title
Menu
Hold
Click wheel

Software

Maximum OS3.1.1
iTunesiTunes 4.6 or later
System RequirementsMac OS X 10.1.5 or later
USB 2.0 requires Mac OS X 10.3.4
Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4
Windows XP Home or Professional

Accessories

AccessoriesDock (40 GB)
Earbud headphones
AC adapter
FireWire cable
USB 2.0 cable

Power

BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable Lithium-Ion
Battery CapacityUnknown
Battery LifeUp to 12 hours
Charge TimeUp to 4 hours
2 hour to 80% capacity
PowerCharging via FireWire, USB 2, or power adapter

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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.