Tony Fadell, popularly known as the ‘father of the iPod’, has a new pitch for Apple CEO Tim Cook: bring back the iPod. As reported by Business Insider, in a recent interview with tech journalist Eric Newcomer, Fadell argued that Apple could capitalise on nostalgia while meeting the growing demand for a simpler, distraction-free music devices. “I think there are smarter ways of making an AirPod that has an iPod in it. So, I think they need to bring back the iPod,” Fadell said. Along with this, Fadell also pointed out the resurgence of “dumb phones” and retro tech as evidence that consumers are increasingly seeking a more “pure” listening experience.

A market for ‘Retro Tech’

Apple discontinued the iPod nano and Shuffle in 2017 and the iPod touch in 2019. With the discontinuation of iPod Apple ended nearly two decades of the product line which revolutionised digital music. Yet online communities remain active, modding old iPods to fit modern needs. Fadell is of the opinion that Apple could tap into this enthusiasm, much like Sony has done with its $3,699 collector’s edition Walkman and newly launched turntables.The suggestions made by Fadell comes at a time when a lot of speculation is going around Apple’s future leadership. Tim Cook, now 64, has said he will not retire in a “traditional” way, while senior vice president of hardware engineering John Ternus is widely seen as a top contender to succeed him. Fadell himself has been mentioned as a possible candidate, though he downplayed the idea, saying he would be happy to help Apple “any way they think they would like to be helped.”Additionally, the suggestion made by Fadell also highlight a broader trend in consumer electronics: nostalgia-driven products paired with modern updates. As vinyl records, retro phones, and classic devices make comebacks, Apple could find an opportunity to reintroduce the iPod in a new form—perhaps integrated with AirPods or as a standalone minimalist music player.