When music began moving to digital format, MP3 players became the Walkman of the new age. The amazing portability of such a large collection of music and other audio files transformed the industry and made long commutes, workouts at the gym and even house cleaning more enjoyable. Seemingly destined for longevity, it appears as though the era of the MP3 player may already be coming to an end. With smartphones capable of playing streaming music and downloaded MP3 files, many users are putting up those single purpose media players in favor of the versatile, portable smartphone.
Ease of Access
Smartphones are capable of sourcing media files from the web, through computer transfer or through storage cards. No matter where you are, if you have Internet access, you can listen to music on your smartphone. Unlimited music plans through services like Zune and Muve allow users to pay one small fee and enjoy nonstop music – no individual purchases required.
Streamlined Delivery
Not only does a smartphone play and organize media files, but it also helps streamline the delivery of those files. When there is an incoming phone call, users no longer have to fumble and find the pause button on their MP3 player; the smartphone is smart enough to pause the music and wait for the call to complete. This can be helpful during times when hands are full.
Simplified Management
Putting up the MP3 player in favor of a smartphone can simplify life, too. There are fewer cords to organize, less to carry when you are out and about and best of all, most people rarely forget their smartphones, meaning your music will always be with you. Because storage cards for smartphones can handle other files too, all important data such as music, pictures and videos can be managed in one location.
Phones are Often Less Expensive
Most smartphone purchases are subsidized by wireless providers, making them typically less expensive than MP3 players, easing the barrier to access and allowing everyone the chance to get their music through a phone instead of a digital music player. Phones turn over faster than MP3 players, so used options are available for those who are not eligible for subsidized phones.
All Media in One Device
Smartphones are capable of handling more than just audio files; most modern phones can stream videos and download movies as well. A smartphone may be able to read more of the common audio files than a specialized MP3 player, opening up listening options to more files than ever. No longer do you need separate devices to manage all of your media – smartphones can handle them all!
With Smartphones’ Versatility, Why Specialize?
One of the most appealing aspects of smartphones is their versatility. Few other portable devices boast the usage options a smartphone does. With native apps, users can play games, enhance productivity, find the best places to eat and even go shopping. Listening to music while ticking off items on the grocery list is something MP3 players are just not designed to offer. Nearly every aspect of life can be organized, charted or aided by a smartphone app, making it one of the most indispensable technology items ever invented.
There are many compelling reasons to choose a smartphone over a standalone MP3 player. As technology progresses and phones become ever more capable, MP3 players are going to become a thing of the past. While there is no doubt they have shaped the way we access music, their time may be coming to an end, paving the way for new technology to take over.
