I don't agree with people down-rating a post they disagree with. However, I have to disagree. The iPod was simply the best hardware to play the most songs. I've used many cd players and MP3 cd players, and the HD iPod was the best interface with a scrool wheel, and the best deal on capacity.
Of course, you could say the iTunes way of structuring metadata was essential for the UI, and I would agree. However, I hated the iTunes software on the desktop, and I've always ran alternative clients, and I know many others who did as well. When alternative iPod software came up that had directory support, that was great too.
After the iPod became popular, no other company was able to come up with the alternative, equally capable storage/price hardware. It took years for Sony/Creative to come up with good alternatives, and then iPhone took over.
Of course, you could say the iTunes way of structuring metadata was essential for the UI, and I would agree. However, I hated the iTunes software on the desktop, and I've always ran alternative clients, and I know many others who did as well. When alternative iPod software came up that had directory support, that was great too.
After the iPod became popular, no other company was able to come up with the alternative, equally capable storage/price hardware. It took years for Sony/Creative to come up with good alternatives, and then iPhone took over.