No, I asked what's so special about Ipods. I asked if it is merely an mp3 player, which it appears is all it is. I mentioned I can play mp3s on portable devices already, and that i can download music for those devices already. I don't get what the ipod has introduced that didn't exist already. Hell, I had a portable mp3 player in 1999. I don't get what all the hype is about. I thought maybe it could do something I wasn't aware of.
I totally share your sentiment, and yes, I believe that's all it is... an mp3 player. Just goes to show that modern marketing is more about selling the sizzle than the steak.
You can legally download music and TV shows and play them on the john or whatever, you can organize them and rate them and burn them and share them.
If that doesn't do it for you, then don't buy one.
I have had other mp3 players. I got an ipod 30gig after Christmas, and I have to say that the functionality of it, the thumbwheel, the interface with the computer (even with USB 1.1). The sound is better than other mp3s. The components seem better (the earphone jack, for example seems sturdier). The seemless connection with itunes, making it easier to download to the ipod. For me, the video capabilities and podcast connection with ipod and itunes is superlative. I am no Mac fan, but this thing works, works well, sounds good and it just high quality in your hand.
Then I would say you are woefully ignorant of the iPods purpose and features. A Rolls Royce is merely a car after all.