I simply can’t understand why Apple (and Monster) charge so much for “accessory cables and docks” for iPods and iPhones. For example the only Apple Component AV (RCA, S-video) cable currently available for a 3rd Generation Aluminum ipod Nano is priced at $49 from Apple. The Monster Ipod AV Cable is similarly priced. This means if you want to connect your new iPod to a Television to show your family and friends your photos or your videos, you have to give Apple another $49 + tax and shipping. Every single generation (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th) of Apple iPods have been this way. New iPod = Special Cable = Old Cables Don’t Work.
Before you say it, I will, “The reason Apple iPods require special cables is that Apple designs innovative products that aren’t based around the normal “standard” AV output form factor.” I understand that and I don’t want Apple to design their products based on a plug. That’s the tail wagging the dog. But how can a cable for an iPod be so expensive? I never seen Apple or Monster have a sale or discount these special cables. Yes, as the product life of the iPod expires, the price goes down, but that’s because nobody wants them.
These cables don’t have to be so expensive. How much can it really cost Apple to produce a cable? A few dollars?
If you are getting ready to purchase a new iPod or iPhone, you may want to consider adding the price of the accessory cables to the price of the item. Apple knows you’ll need them and they are willing to price gouge you for them.
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I agree with you that some of the prices they charge for ipod cables are ridiculous.
The ipod kid on March 25th, 2008 at 2:43 pm | Link
In the past, you were a complete idiot for paying more than $5 on an AV cable and no one cared. Ever since OS3, it became mandatory for cables to have a little authentication ship inside.
Of course this is pure bull****, but Apple does it for a reason. Most 5$ AV cables just suck when compared to “real” ones. The video quality is awful and there’s a heck of a lot of noise in the audio cables. To top off, the cheaper the cable the cheaper the material and the easier they break. Currently there are 3rd party cables with a working chip in it to work around the problem, and there’s a program called “Resupported” available from Cydia after jailbreaking, but both cost a sum of money. Both cheaper than a bloody 50$ Apple cable but what the ****ing hell are we doing.
anonymous on May 15th, 2010 at 7:40 am | Link