The latest version of the Apple iPod shuffle is a unique beast indeed.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs famously declared it the world’s smallest MP3 player when it was launched at the end of 2007, and that claim can’t be far from the truth.

The iPod shuffle is truly tiny. It’s much smaller and slimmer than a box of matches, and comes with a clip design so you can easily attach it to your clothes when you’re exercising, your pocket, bag or anywhere else you want to stash it.

Naturally, because of its smaller size, the shuffle holds less music than its big brothers in the iPod family, including the ever-popular nano. It holds just 1GB of music only (no video or pictures because there is no display screen).

If you’re a hardcore music fan who likes to have a multitude of songs and albums stored on your MP3 player, then this isn’t the device for you. But if you only want to have up to approximately 100 or so tracks at any one time, it’s an affordable option. You might also like the shuffle as a second MP3 player for exercise or the gym.

Some users may find it a little difficult to use, given that there is no screen, just a few (small) buttons. This can be hard to get used to if you’ve previously used a fully fledged player. But you don’t actually need the screen here as you can’t select songs - you can skip, reverse, play in order or shuffle and that’s it.

To make it additionally appealing, the iPod shuffle comes in a range of eye-catching hues so you can make a fashion statement when it’s clipped onto your clothes.

Click here to find offers on Apple iPods near you.

By Caroline Warnes