HP on Friday announced that it has added the iPod shuffle to its lineup of digital music players. The PC maker already sells Apple iPods and iPod minis. Like Apple, HP’s “Apple iPod shuffle + HP” is available in 512MB and 1GB models for US$99.99 and $129.99 respectively.
The Apple iPod shuffle + HP is identical to its Apple-branded counterpart: It’s a flash-based digital music player that’s compatible with MP3 files and the AAC files you can purchase through Apple’s popular iTunes Music Store. The device connects to a computer using a USB 2.0 interface, and can hang from the user’s neck using an included lanyard. Also included are white earbuds to match the player.
Apple and HP have had a partnership since 2004, when the companies first announced they’d be working together to bring iPods for HP’s customers. The partnership also has HP installing Apple’s iTunes on its line of personal computers and laptops.
HP sells the “Apple iPod + HP” through its e-commerce Web site and also distributes the devices to retailers through its broad distribution network — a much farther reach than Apple has, which has gotten the iPod onto store shelves where Apple hasn’t had a retail presence before now. HP-branded iPods are available through Radio Shack, Sears, Wal-Mart and other major resellers.
Originally HP shipped a Click Wheel-equipped version of the iPod. Only a month ago, HP began shipping its own branded version of the iPod mini. With the Apple iPod shuffle + HP now in the lineup, HP’s line is complete — at least until Apple’s next major refresh of the iPod product line.
For more on iPod, please visit the iPod Product Guide.