A new third-party accessory for the Apple Watch, the tinyPod, is set to reignite your love for the iconic iPod, complete with a functioning click wheel.
The tinyPod, a nostalgic Apple Watch case, brings back the beloved iPod experience. This accessory, available for $79, is designed to transform your Apple Watch into a wrist-free device reminiscent of the classic iPod (h/t Android Authority).
The tinyPod case is a unique offering that allows users to use their Apple Watch without wearing it on their wrist. The standard version features a functional click wheel, while the lite version, priced at $30, omits the click wheel but retains the retro design.
TinyPod: $79 @ tinyPod
TinyPod Lite: $30 @ tinyPod
While the tinyPod disables the digital crown of the Apple Watch, the click wheel serves as an alternative control mechanism. This design aims to provide a phone-free experience, capitalizing on the Apple Watch’s capabilities for calls, texts, music playback, and fitness tracking, particularly beneficial for users with cellular Apple Watch models.
The tinyPod is pitched as “your phone away from the phone,” ideal for those who want to reduce their phone usage without sacrificing the essential functions provided by their Apple Watch. However, the $80 price tag may seem steep, especially given its primary appeal is nostalgia rather than added functionality.
Despite this, the tinyPod offers a practical solution for activities where wearing a watch might be uncomfortable, such as running or working out. Its appeal lies in its ability to transform the Apple Watch into a portable device that doesn’t need to be worn on the wrist.
For those who are interested in the tinyPod but hesitant about the cost, the tinyPod Lite provides a more affordable option, albeit without the signature click wheel.
Both the tinyPod and tinyPod Lite are currently available for pre-order. The 45/44mm versions are expected to ship this summer, though an exact date is not specified. Meanwhile, the 41/40mm and 49mm (Ultra) sizes will be released in the fall.