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December 31, 2006

ipod

iPod vending machines are big business

Posted Dec. 31, ’06, 4:00 PM PT by Derik DeLong
Category | iPod

iPod vending When I first heard about iPod vending machines, I was skeptical. I understand that the iPod shuffle is inexpensive and even makes the perfect stocking stuffer or so I hear, I got coal, I don’t know what that’s about. On the other hand, I still don’t see it as an impulse buy item. To me, it’s still one of those items you put just a little thought into before putting your hard earned dollars onto the counter. That said, they seem to be making money hand over fist.

“We’ve done about $55,000 in a month in gross sales just for the one on Concourse A,” said Leopold, executive vice-president and owner Business Traveler Services. “This is becoming the future for some high-end products in places like airports where space is at a premium.”

That’s more than a couple iPods. Here’s the thing though. You swipe a credit card through the slot and the iPod of your choice gets delivered gently to your hands. Doesn’t it seem like an obvious target for abuse? With that stolen credit card in your hand, you can quickly get at least one iPod, no questions asked. I’m just glad I don’t have to walk by one ever day or else I’d feel compelled to give the machine the obligatory shake, hoping for a free prize.

[via Infinite Loop]


1 Comments

TexasRob said:

So you choose that shiny new iPod and get it into your hands at the airport. Now what. Do you toss the packaging that is a cherished part of the Apple tradition? Do you plug it into your laptop that you have with you and fill it with music? Short of that, what is the value of an empty iPod when you are traveling. This is the part of the equation I am missing. Now if they allowed you to purchase it pre-filled with music of your choice, then I can see the attraction. Whatever works.

January 1, 2007 12:25 PM

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