New Accessory Turns Apple Watch Into a Modern iPod – Apple

TinyPod, a new third-party accessory, promises to turn the Apple Watch into a modern version of the classic iPod, including a working click wheel.

Using the TinyPod is simple: Apple Watch owners remove the straps and place the watch inside the case. While the watch’s digital crown is inaccessible, the click wheel takes over, providing a user experience strongly reminiscent of the legendary iPod.

However, the TinyPod’s $80 price tag raises questions about its true value. Essentially, users are paying for a special case that changes the look of the watch, without adding any new features. The click wheel, while nostalgic, simply replaces the functionality of the Digital Crown.

The company behind the product is promoting it as a “smartphone beyond a smartphone,” but that only applies to LTE-enabled Apple Watch models. For the rest, the only thing you don’t see is the band.

However, the TinyPod could be an interesting option for those looking to distance themselves from their mobile phones while maintaining essential connectivity features. Its smaller size makes it ideal for activities like running, and it could be an alternative for those who prefer not to wear watches.

For more budget-conscious consumers, there’s also a $30 TinyPod Lite model, without the click wheel, which, while less functional, offers a less expensive option.

Interested parties can order both models from TinyPod’s website, but be aware that shipments have not yet begun. Depending on the size of the watch, delivery is expected in the summer or fall of this year.