It seems to reflect the so-called ‘digital detox’ desire. In the movement to reduce algorithmic fatigue and dependence on smartphones, the method of choosing and listening to music is spreading.
The Associated Press reported that the number of used iPods whose official production has been suspended is increasing rapidly around the world. The iPod is an MP3 player made by Apple that allows users to store and listen to music files separately.
According to the French-based global platform Backmarket, iPod transaction volume increased 48% last year from the previous year. 450 million units sold over 20 years are now the basis of used market volume.
The background of this trend is the desire for digital detox. Digital Detox is a combination of digital and detox, which means to relieve the poison of electronic devices.
Using multiple functions with a single smartphone at the same time has increased fatigue. The phenomenon of turning on a smartphone to listen to music, watching a short video, or sending a contact is repeated, leading to a movement to find a device that is focused on one function.
Another reason why the iPod is drawing attention again is that it can create its own playlist by choosing songs by itself instead of recommending algorithms. Experts are also paying attention to the change. “There is a clear trend among young users to reduce distractions caused by smartphones,” said Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insights. “The iPod is used to reduce dependence on smartphones as it has limited functions other than listening to music.”
A similar pattern appears in the Korea used market. Various models of the iPod are being traded on major platforms such as Lightning Market, Carrot, and Used Country. The price ranges from 100,000 won to 300,000 won depending on the condition of the product.
People are constantly posting comments about their experiences. One user said, “The way you download music and put it in the device is rather special.” Another user said, “I’m very satisfied that I can buy a device that was hard to have when I was young.”
JENNIFER KIM
US ASIA JOURNAL
