Here is yet another iPod review. Let me start by saying that I was late to the iPod party. That said the most recently released product with video playback rocks.
What's great about the iPod starts with the system set-up. While the process is not quite turn-key for Windows based PCs, its still quite good. The process does seem to be 100% turn key on Apple/Mac/iBook products.
Next after the device is set-up, its time to upload media. This is where the iPod shines. iTunes+iPod makes it so easy load music, pictures, videos and movies. A great example of how well this works is that I uploaded an entire full length feature movie to my unit in minutes and I was working from a 5 year old mid-grade PC. My 30GB iPod now hold hundreds of songs, hundreds of pictures, a movie and has lots of headroom. I especially appreciate the device when traveling. Its great to sit on a plane and conveniently turn on a movie without having fiddle with a laptop. The 2.5" screen, with great resolution, is big enough for one person to enjoy. I suspect it would be a bit tight for two.
Other things I like about the iPod include the form factor as it fits easily into any pocket. The sound quality is of course great. Another big area of strength for the iPod is the UI. Without any instruction most people seem figure out the UI in five minute. A light touch around the dial to scroll and a big button to press to select, it does not get much easier than that.
Apple does it again, I highly recommend this product.