If you can't beat the i-Pod, mind as well go whacky right? Check out some of these interesting new designs for MP3 players: http://reviews.cnet.com/2300-6490_7-10000346.html?tag=centerColumnArea1.1 They are definitely different!!! The Baylis player features a handcrank to generate power, very eco-friendly indeed...another, the "Chumby" looks like a Nerf football on steroids. The "Dolphin" player is great for underwater adventures.
While some of these designs are whackier than others and may appeal to niche buyers, I am left wondering why no other large companies have been able to figure out an MP3 player that can seriosuly compete with the i-Pod. Microsoft's Zune player started out with such promise, but the company recently revealed that Zune sales were down a whopping 54% http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2009/01/27/zune-sales-down-54-percent-will-microsoft-fight-to-save-its-digital-music-player/ Too bad!
It can't be that hard, right? Step 1 Design an easy-to-use device that is user-friendly and good looking. Step 2. Build a a rich content dowload site. Step 3. Spend a ton on marketing the thing.
Maybe I'm oversimplifying things a bit too much...
What I think Microsoft and the other secondary MP3 players are truly missing is some sort of brand "soul"....a core message about their product that will make an emotional connection with customers. For Micrsosft's sake, I hope they do some serious soul searching soon.
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