iPod · The Aluminum Age · 2010
iPod shuffle (4th generation)
After a controversial button-less third generation, the buttons returned, plus VoiceOver, which read out song titles so a screenless player finally made sense.
Brought back physical buttons and added VoiceOver to announce tracks.
iPod shuffle (4th generation): key facts
When was the iPod shuffle (4th generation) released?
The iPod shuffle (4th generation) arrived on September 1, 2010. Apple discontinued it in July 2017.
How much did the iPod shuffle (4th generation) cost?
The iPod shuffle (4th generation) launched at $49 in 2010, about $72 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Custom controller, 2 GB storage, 3.5 mm / USB.
Why does the iPod shuffle (4th generation) matter?
Brought back physical buttons and added VoiceOver to announce tracks.
Full specifications
| CPU | Custom controller |
|---|---|
| Cores | 1 |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | 2 GB |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | 3.5 mm / USB |
| Weight | 12.5 g |
| Dimensions | 2.9×3.2×0.87 cm |
| Operating system | iPod shuffle firmware |
| Released | September 1, 2010 |
| Discontinued | July 2017 |
| Launch price | $49 |
How the iPod shuffle (4th generation) compares to today
All of this storage holds about 512 modern phone photos.
Launched at $49 in 2010, about $72 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Did you know?
It was Apple’s cheapest-ever music product at $49, sold until 2017.
Related iPod models
Open the iPod shuffle (4th generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11