Retro Tech Trend: Young Listeners Embrace the iPod

The discontinued Apple device finds new fans among Gen Z music lovers seeking a more focused listening experience.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 1:07am

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The iPod, discontinued by Apple in 2022 after over 20 years on the market, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity among young music listeners. Frustrated by the disappearing songs and increasing prices of streaming services, people in their 20s are turning to used iPods to build personal music libraries and disconnect from constant notifications. The device's nostalgic appeal and focused listening experience have made it a hit with Gen Z, who see it as a refreshing alternative to the all-encompassing smartphone.

Why it matters

The iPod's comeback highlights a growing desire among young people to unplug from the constant connectivity of modern technology. Dissatisfied with the limitations of streaming, they are embracing the iPod's ability to provide a more immersive, distraction-free music listening experience. This trend reflects a broader shift towards more analog and personalized forms of media consumption, as people seek respite from the overwhelming nature of today's digital landscape.

The details

Angeline Richard, a 25-year-old content creator, purchased a used third-generation iPod Nano for around $40 to listen to her favorite music without the interruptions of her smartphone. She has since downloaded 10 more CDs to the device, finding the process "so fun" and "like a little meditation." Other young people, like 22-year-old Elizabeth Hernandez, have also turned to iPods to focus on their music without the distractions of social media and notifications. The iPod's resurgence has led to increased eBay searches and sales, with some refurbished models selling for nearly $600.

  • About four years ago, Angeline Richard began experiencing issues with disappearing songs on streaming services.
  • In January 2026, Angeline Richard purchased a used third-generation iPod Nano.
  • Over the past month, Angeline Richard has found the iPod to be a more grounding and convenient way to listen to music compared to her smartphone.

The players

Angeline Richard

A 25-year-old content creator in Raleigh, North Carolina who purchased a used iPod Nano to listen to her favorite music without the distractions of her smartphone.

Elizabeth Hernandez

A 22-year-old senior at Eastern Washington University who owns a pink fourth-generation iPod Nano and a silver seventh-generation iPod Classic to listen to her music in a more focused way.

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What they’re saying

“The iPod 'just grounds me, and it feels convenient to be in one place at one time, instead of everywhere at once.'”

— Angeline Richard

“'I feel a lot more focused, a lot more plugged into what I'm doing. I am disconnected from social media, but I feel more connected with myself.'”

— Elizabeth Hernandez, Senior at Eastern Washington University

The takeaway

The iPod's resurgence among young music listeners reflects a broader desire to unplug from the constant connectivity of modern technology and embrace more focused, personalized forms of media consumption. As people become increasingly overwhelmed by the limitless options and distractions of streaming services and smartphones, the iPod offers a refreshing alternative that allows them to rediscover the joy of immersive, distraction-free music listening.