compatible in your mind
There is an iconic figure in our post-Y2K times and it is called the iPod. It is the epitome of simplicity and elegant technology. Yes, it is also the consumerist’s doll baby, but it has been the reference for such cultural clichés and roles like “individualism”, “conformitism”, “diva”, “reliance”, “ubiquity”, and “convenience”.
Leave it to Microsoft to want to take a bite out of Apple and come up with their own competitor, Zune. A rather nicely designed device that is compatible with neither any previously purchased music at MSN nor with Microsoft’s next operating system, Vista.
In corporations of Microsoft’s size, the interplay and communication amongst the various departments is key. The still-surfacing operating system flaws of Windows XP shows that miscommunication is happening even at the most interpersonal of levels. Transferring this horrendous corporate approach to hardware naturally results in a product that is riven with imperfections and inconsistencies. The fact that the thing looks good makes me sad; if this was another sickly-looking MP3 player, I would think nothing of it. But of the designers who are being put out due to this debacle - that thought is like a kick in the teeth.
Apart from those who specifically want to front their anti-iPod beliefs, who is going to buy a brown MP3 player?
November 18th, 2006 at 3:46 pm
While I agree with you about the obvious flaws inherent in the Zune, I am more than a little baffled at your coda. One could easily ask why anyone would buy a green iPod. I quite find the color brown a nice option, seeing how earth tones compliment my complexion. The iPod, besides being a great music player (among other things), is also a fashion item: this fact is inescapable. Having a classic color such as brown would go very well with many pieces in my wardrobe. Black and white are perhaps more versatile colors, but what about Pink? Blue? So, in answer to your question, I would buy a brown MP3 player. (now, if I was rich, I’d have a different iPod color to match my mood that day…). Honestly, would you wear something as ghastly as their green iPod nano?