NEW YORK—When Apple announced new iPod music players a few weeks ago, many people asked why anyone would need iPods when smartphones can play music and more. I had that question myself—until I remembered I’ve been carrying an iPod almost every day, mostly for my runs.
There are times a stand-alone device such as an iPod works better than a jack-of-all-trades like a smartphone. A stand-alone device does one or two things, but does them really well.
Of course, this means one more thing to buy and carry, so the phone is often simpler. But here are ways you might find a stand-alone device preferable.
Music Players
The varieties of the new iPod Touch. Apple/AP
