iPod U2

Company	:	Apple
Price	:	RM 1,699
Rating	:

And so Apple Malaysia has finally released the long awaited iPod U2 alongside with the iPod Photo. With specifications similar to the 4G 20GB iPod clickwheel, the iPod U2 is easily recognisable with its jet-black front that has got a metallic feel to it. The clickwheel, however, sports a striking red color that is identical to the theme of U2's new album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb.

The back of the iPod U2 is an interesting side to behold as each of the band member's signature and name is laser engraved on the top, with the words "Special Edition" and "U2" at the bottom. As Steve Jobs once mentioned, "The back of our products look better than our competitors' front", which might be true to die-hard U2 fans out there.

However, the lack of a color LCD, compared to the new 65k color LCD screen of the iPod Photo might be a big turn off to many. A smart marketing strategy by Apple, I would say, to clear off the old internal parts of the iPod by using U2's name and making it 'special edition'. Without U2's new album preloaded inside the iPod U2 due to legal constraints, Apple is compensating the consumers by including an iTunes certificate worth USD50 for those who wish to purchase U2's digital box set that contains 400 of their previous and current songs. Unfortunately, this is not included in some regions outside the United States.

A U2 poster with Bono's handwritten poem and signature is also included in every package that serves as a small consolation, together with the black box (which was previously white) that contains both the iTunes software and license agreement. Though the headphones remain white, they surprisingly match the bold exterior of the iPod U2 when plugged in.

The iPod U2 is priced at RM1699 which includes all the necessary accessories - an increase of RM200 compared to the original 4G 20GB iPod. The price for the iPod U2 is rational considering that it is a special edition Apple product, and it greatly satisfies any U2 or Apple loyalist out there. Bottom line, if you're a fan of either of the subjects above and are willing to pay a little bit more for a special edition product that sports a cool and classy exterior, get it by all means. If none of your requirements match the above, go for the original white 4G 20GB iPod instead.