Sony plans Walkman to rival iPod

[Dr Lobster*]

Sony is to revamp its famous Walkman by launching a digital music player to rival Apple's iPod, which has led the market since its 2001 launch.
Sony said its device would be about £55 cheaper and able to store 3,000 more songs than the top iPod model.

It is also aiming to boost use of its online music store Sony Connect, as its Walkman will play songs only in the company's own format.

the unit inself looks quite dinky, but, it will not play mp3's or any other format, just sony's own files using their custom digital rights managment.

is it me, or is this idea going to be doomed from the start?

this device prevents users from listening to their current library of digital music whether they have purchased them legally or not, this seems like a crazy limitation.

[Pete]

I agree, to not support either MP3 or WMA means it's just doomed. I've never even heard of Sony's online store or their format.

[James Martin]

Not supporting MP3s? Forget that one then!

I'm happy with my Creative NOMAD Jukebox anyway.

[DJGM]

From what I've read, this device does allow MP3 files to downloaded to it, but the files are converted to Sony's
proprietary file format before they can actually be used on the device. Eitherway, it does look good, although
not nearly as good looking as the iPod (or iPod mini). And I imagine someone will soon find a method of
cracking or modding Sony's new device to be able to play MP3 files natively without needing conversion.

[Fireboy]

Slightly off topic - the iPod mini appeared on the Apple Store UK early this morning. I'm guessing it's not for dispatch yet though - I heard they wouldn't be released until the 28th July.

[DJGM]

According to Apple, the official UK release date for iPod mini will be 24th July.