Monday Music: iPod Shuffle 3G Issues

iPod 3rd Generation Shuffle. Apple recently released the new Shuffle, the compact music player that doesn’t have a screen and has limited controls. I had a 2nd generation Shuffle for about 2 months before I decided that I needed something much bigger and better. I opted for the 80 gb iPod classic, which I have had for about 14 months and I love it.

Image: Applestore.com

Recently I came across a report on iLounge.com that said that there was a discussion in the Apple Forums that said that some iPod Shuffle 3g users were having issues with the new earphones that come with the new shuffle. The new earphones for the new Shuffle feature a volume control on the right earbud cord.

the issue appears to be linked to moisture and sweat, which seems to interfere with the in-line controls. Users have repeatedly reported that the volume randomly increases to maximum when working out or running during use, while a subset of users said that the unit unexpectedly turned itself off shortly after the volume increase.

If you’re sweating excessively chances are some sweat is going to run down the wire and possibly interfere with the controls. I’m not saying that this is right and that Apple is not at fault here, but they know that these products are used for various reasons to include working out. I think they need to take measures to insure that this doesn;t become a problem by at least making them water resistant.