IPod Mini

The two generations of iPod Mini are almost identical apart from minor cosmetic differences. The first generation model has gray control symbols on the click wheel, while those on the second generation match the color of the body. Their major functional differences lay in their storage capacity and battery life. Both versions measure 3.6x2.0x0.5 inches (91x51x13 mm) and weigh 3.6 ounces (102 grams). The case is made from anodized aluminium. First generation iPod Minis were available in five colors: silver, gold, pink, blue, and green. The gold model was dropped from the second generation range. The pink, blue, and green models received brighter hues in the second generation but the silver model remained unchanged.

The iPod Mini uses Microdrive hard drives (CompactFlash II) made by Hitachi and Seagate. First generation models were available in a 4 GB size, while second generation models were available in both 4 GB and 6 GB versions (quoted as capable of storing roughly 1,000 and 1,500 songs, respectively). Second generation models have their capacity laser etched into the aluminum case.

The battery life for the first generation iPod Mini was criticized for its 8-hour duration, similar to the third generation iPod that was available at the time. Apple addressed this problem in the second generation models by increasing the battery life to about 18 hours, at the cost of removing the included FireWire and AC adapter cables to avoid increasing selling costs. A proprietary Apple 30-pin dock connector is located on the bottom of the device. The iPod Mini can charge and transfer files when connected to a computer via USB or FireWire. Along the top, it has a hold switch, a headphone jack, and a remote connector for accessories.

The iPod Mini supports MP3, AAC/M4A, WAV, AIFF, and Apple Lossless audio formats. It supports integration with iTunes and the iTunes Store, allowing for syncing of content between the software application and the iPod Mini.