Duke to Give iPods to Incoming Freshman

a little corroboration: http://news.com.com/Apple+hatches+newest+iPod/2100-1041_3-5274032.html?tag=nefd.top

Separately, Apple said that Duke University will give Apple iPods to each of its 1,650 freshman this fall, allowing them to access class schedules and course information, as well as play music via the devices. A custom version of the iTunes site will allow students to both buy music and download class information. The school characterized the effort as a pilot program between Duke and Apple that will be evaluated after this year, adding that students will be able to keep their iPods either way.


"We're approaching this as an experiment, one we hope will motivate our faculty and students to think creatively about using digital audio content and a mobile computing environment to advance educational goals in the same way that iPods and similar devices have had such a big impact on music distribution," Tracy Futhey, Duke's vice president of information technology, said in a statement.

The RIAA ought to love this one!

Lucky lucky little ******

I wonder if more schools will follow

i guess i should go to duke...
:cool:
reality

Lucky bastards...my frosh kit consisted of a few mini chocolate bars and some samples of Tide.

Lucky lucky little ******

I wonder if more schools will follow

what worries me is how many schools will see this as a good idea, but realize they can do the same with the extremely less expensive other MP3 players on the market for a LOT less money.

I just went to GW, and they now have that Napster deal going. This beats the hell out of that, but it does seem that the RIAA would have a hissy fit. Given that the university is now requiring students to use a device that can be used to pirate music. Eh, y'know what? F-those a-holes.

I have a long list of reasons for not liking the RIAA, and I think they deserve a kick in the pants... wait this is all way off topic... :o

Are these standard iPods though?

It seems a PDA would be much better for this unless these are some prototype iPods.

what worries me is how many schools will see this as a good idea, but realize they can do the same with the extremely less expensive other MP3 players on the market for a LOT less money.

Except the iPod is more of a desired object because it is a symbol of status. I mean, being at Duke *isn't* enough! :D

You don't need to worry, because Apple isn't relying strictly on the ipod to make this a glorious thing.

The customized iTunes store that allows them to download school related things in addition to music is the real key here.......it's the same power that works with keeping the iPod at the top of the field, too.

The iPod + iTunes Music Store = a fantastic music experience.

The iPod + Duke University + Special Duke/iTunes Music Store = a fantastic Duke University/music experience.