Searches for the iPod Classic on eBay have jumped by as much as 25 percent, revealing a new trend of people wanting to escape algorithms from various apps and seeking to listen to music without smartphone notifications.
Although Apple ceased iPod production in 2022, it appears that the classic Apple music player is gaining popularity among the younger Gen Z generation.
Data from Google Trends and eBay statistics show that searches for the iPod Classic rose by 25 percent, similar to a 20 percent increase for the iPod Nano compared to the previous year. This has become an intriguing phenomenon where young people are trying to find items their parents' generation used a decade ago, as a way to disconnect from today's overwhelming connectivity.
A key factor driving this trend is the desire for Digital Detox — a break from the hectic digital world.
Cal Newport, a computer science professor and proponent of Digital Minimalism, explains that while smartphones try to combine everything into one device making it hard for users to control, the iPod offers a music-only experience. This allows users to step away from life without being interrupted by over 20 social media notifications per hour.
Additionally, the iPod has become an emotional safe space linked to nostalgic feelings for a past that seemed more hopeful than the present.
This trend has also led to a new concept called Friction-maxxing, where Gen Z chooses to embrace a bit of inconvenience by rejecting the ease of streaming app algorithms. Instead, they download songs one by one onto their iPods, investing effort in song selection to make music listening more meaningful and emotionally healing.
Currently, global music streaming continues to grow, reaching 1.4 trillion streams in 2025. However, the iPod’s comeback is notable, especially for its role in slowing down life’s pace through a device limited by technology.