AirPods
By Rob Safuto on Nov 16, 2006 in Podcasting, Social Media | Tags: Airlines , iPod , Portable Media , Zune
Thinking about producing portable media? Worrying about that media actually being consumed? The latest move by Apple will increase the chances that your audio or video podcast gets seen or heard.
A couple of days back Apple announced that the iPod would integrate with the entertainment systems on a number of international airlines, including my favorite carrier Continental.
According to Apple’s press release, “In-flight iPod connectivity will be available to Air France, Continental, Delta, Emirates, KLM and United passengers beginning in mid 2007.”
This could be a boon for iPod sales since many hardcore travelers (myself included) really value their portable entertainment. Who wouldn’t want a seat connection that, “power and charge their iPods during flight and allow the video content on their iPods to be viewed on the seat back displays.” No more worrying about having enough juice to get through a four hour flight.
I don’t own an iPod. I use the competing iRiver brand of audio player. My player is two years old and doesn’t support video. I’ve been holding out for the next generation of iPods before making a switch. I know they’re coming soon and now I’m more likely to buy one because of this move.
Meanwhile the Microsoft Zune has gotten mixed reviews. I’m sure that the timing of Apple’s announcement was planned to hit Microsoft on Zune launch day.
There’s a real important point to be made here though. The iPod has over 80% of the portable media player market. And increasing connectivity and usability on the move means that more people will get a chance to consume their media when they want to.
Just one more reason why an investment in social media is an investment in a strong growth industry.
[tags]Social Media, iPod, Airlines, Zune, Portable Media[/tags]
