In the ever-evolving landscape of portable music players, one device stands out as a true game-changer: the 2nd Generation iPod mini, introduced by Apple in 2005. This compact MP3 player not only revolutionized the way we listened to music on the go but also left an indelible mark on the industry with its sleek design and innovative features.
Back in 2005, Apple made waves in the portable music player market with the unveiling of the 2nd Generation iPod mini. This stylish device, part of the iconic iPod series, captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide with its compact size and impressive capabilities. Launched on February 23rd, 2005, the iPod mini boasted a starting price of $199, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The second-generation iPod mini lineup introduced two new models: a 4 GB variant priced at $199 and a 6 GB model with expanded storage priced at $249. Both models featured a significant improvement in battery life, offering up to 18 hours of uninterrupted music playback. With USB charging and a lightweight design available in four vibrant colors, the iPod mini quickly became a must-have accessory for music enthusiasts on the move.
One of the key selling points of the iPod mini was its seamless integration with Apple’s iTunes software. Music lovers could easily sync their digital music libraries with the iPod mini using Apple’s patent-pending Auto-Sync feature. With just one click, users could update their playlists and keep their music collection current whenever they connected the iPod mini to a Mac or Windows computer via USB 2.0. Moreover, the same connection that synced music also conveniently charged the device, simplifying the user experience.
Apple’s iPod series, coupled with the iTunes Music Store, spearheaded the digital music revolution of the early 2000s. With over 10 million iPods sold at the time of the iPod mini’s release, it solidified Apple’s position as a dominant player in the market. The iTunes Music Store, boasting over 70 percent market share, provided users with access to a vast library of digital music, further enhancing the appeal of the iPod mini as the ultimate portable music solution.
The iPod mini’s appeal extended beyond its functionality to its aesthetic appeal. Featuring an anodized aluminum case available in four eye-catching colors—Green, Silver, Blue, and Pink—the device exuded style and sophistication. Its 1.67-inch white LED-backlit LCD screen provided crisp visuals, while the inclusion of a standard 3.5-mm headphone jack ensured compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. With up to 18 hours of battery life, 4 GB or 6 GB of flash memory, and the convenience of the Dock Connector for charging and syncing, the iPod mini was a versatile companion for music lovers on the move.
Despite its initial success, the iPod mini’s journey was short-lived. Apple announced its discontinuation on September 7th, 2005, just a few months after its launch. However, its impact on the industry and the hearts of consumers endures to this day. For many Apple fans, the iPod mini remains a cherished relic—a symbol of a bygone era when portable music players were at the forefront of technological innovation.
As we celebrate the 19-year anniversary of the 2nd Generation iPod mini, we’re reminded of its enduring legacy in the world of portable music players. While it may have been discontinued prematurely, its influence lives on in the sleek design and seamless functionality of modern-day devices. Whether you’re a nostalgic enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of portable music, the iPod mini holds a special place in the hearts of millions—a testament to its status as a timeless classic.
iPod mini 2nd Generation Details
| Introduced | February 23, 2005 – 19 years ago |
| Discontinued | September 7, 2005 – 18 years ago |
| Time on the Market | 196 days (6 months) |
| Model Number | A1051 |
| EMC | 2044 |
| Order Number | M9800LL/A (Silver 4 GB) M9802LL/A (Blue 4 GB) M9804LL/A (Pink 4 GB) M9806LL/A (Green 4 GB) M9801LL/A (Silver 6 GB) M9803LL/A (Blue 6 GB) M9805LL/A (Pink 6 GB) M9807LL/A (Green 6 GB) |
| Original Price | $199 (4 GB) $249 (6 GB) |
| Colors | Green Silver Blue Pink |
| Weight | 3.6 oz. – 102 Grams |
| Dimensions | 3.6” H x 2” W x 0.5″ D 9.14 cm H x 5.08 cm W x 1.27 cm D |
iPod mini 2nd Gen Tech Specs
Processor
| Processor | PortalPlayer PP5002 (Dual ARM 7TDMI) |
| Processor Speed | Up to 80 MHz |
| Architecture | 32-bit |
| Number of Cores | 1 |
| Cache | 8 KB per processor |
Storage
| Storage | 4 GB 6 GB |
Display
| Built-in Display | 1.67″ white LED-backlit LCD Display |
| Resolutions | 138 x 110 pixels |
Media
| Audio Formats | AAC MP3 MP3 (VBR) Audible WAV AIFF Apple Lossless |
| Photo Formats | None |
| Video Formats | None |
Connections
| Ports | 1 – 30-pin Dock Connector 1 – 3.5-mm stereo headphone jack |
| Camera | None |
Controls
| Controls | Play/Pause Next title Previous title Menu Hold Click wheel |
Software
| Maximum OS | 1.4.1 |
| iTunes | iTunes 4.7.1 or later |
| System Requirements | Mac OS X 10.2.8 or later USB 2.0 requires Mac OS X 10.3.4 or later Windows 2000 with Service Pack 4 Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 2 |
Accessories
| Accessories | Belt clip Earbud headphones USB 2.0 cable |
Power
| Battery | Built-in rechargeable Lithium-Ion |
| Battery Capacity | Unknown |
| Battery Life | 18 hours |
| Charge Time | Up to 4 hours 2 hour to 80% capacity |
| Power | Charging via FireWire, USB 2.0, or Power adapter |
Further Reading and References
- iPod mini: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Unveils New iPod mini Starting at Just $199 – Apple Newsroom
- iPod Mini – Wikipedia
- 2nd Generation iPod mini – Low End Mac
- iPod mini (2nd gen) – Apple History
- Apple iPod Mini (second generation) review – CNET
- Review: iPod mini (Second Generation) – MacWorld
- iPod mini – 2nd Gen 6GB Review – Trusted Reviews
Disclaimer: The data presented in this article is under continuous development and has been manually collected from various sources based on their availability. The author of this article may revise this dataset as additional research is conducted and reviewed. Please note that the information is provided “as is” and “as available” without express or implied warranties. The author cannot be held responsible for any omissions, inaccuracies, or errors in the published information. Any warranties relating to this information are hereby disclaimed.
