Kent Pribbernow
11-30-2004, 09:00 AM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://appleinsider.com/article.php?id=765' target='_blank'>http://appleinsider.com/article.php?id=765</a><br /><br /></div><i>"Based on one Wall Street analyst's findings, the popularity of Apple's iPod is exceeding that of Sony's Walkman during the 80's and 90's. In a 10 page research note released to clients this morning, Merrill Lynch analyst, Steve Milunovich, once again raised his estimates for Apple's December quarter and 2005 fiscal year by $0.02 and $0.07, respectively. Milunovich also raised Apple's 12-month price objective to $78. Echoing the sentiments of Apple insiders, Milunovich conceded that Apple will likely ship 4 million iPods during the current quarter, up from his previous estimates of 2.7 and 3.5 million units. He also backs reports of a forthcoming flash-based iPod, citing a 'possible' introduction in January at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco."</i><br /><br />iPod's success is undisputable, and something of a marvel in modern consumer electronics. In just a few short years it has become a cult icon. I can certainly vouch for its sex appeal and world class ease of use, but the fact that Apple has managed to sustain and grow its popularity beyond all expectations is quite frankly breathtaking. That said, I still firmly believe that at some point the competition is going to catch up and surpass Apple. When that will be is anyone's guess. But for now, the big kid on the block continues to get bigger.