Apple introduced the iPod nano today, a micro-slim flash-based player that raises the “wow” factor bar for all electronic gadgets.
While the technical specifications of the iPod nano are impressive, it is a non-technical feature that is most interesting. Recognizing a growing need among gadget consumers, the company decided to add a coolness expiration date to each iPod nano.
“Now users will know when their iPods are no longer the hottest new item,” said Apple Senior Vice President of the iPod division Jon Rubinstein.
“The date does not necessarily reflect the specific date when a new product superseding the nano will be announced, it’s just the date when your product buzz wears out.”
“This kind of thing will be great for me,” said iPod mini owner and Swarthmore junior Jason Reed. “Now I’ll know when I should switch from carrying my iPod out in the open to putting it in the pocket of my backpack.
“I got a rep to keep up with the ladies,” Reed added, raising his eyebrows and nodding.
“Mmm-hmm. Yep. The lovely ladies of Swarthmore. Boy howdy. Tell you what. Yowza. Yessir.”
Looking around at the dearth of babes around him, Reed let out a sigh and put his iPod mini away.
“Um… well, actually, I just got here. I transfered from Middlebury. But I am hopeful that one day I will have a rep to keep up with the lovely ladies of Swarthmore.
“Have you seen any, by the way? I thought for sure they’d all be hanging out here at the rec center, but I’m not gettin’ any action.”