You wanted one for Christmas, but neither your parents nor Santa Claus knew. You tried again for your birthday, but your hints were overlooked. The iPod seemed just out of your reach — it was too expensive, or it was always sold out.

Now consumers have another option. Earlier this month, Apple Computer, Inc. introduced the much-anticipated iPod shuffle. Marketed by Apple as the "official soundtrack to random revolution," the iPod shuffle comes in two sizes — 512 MB and 1GB. For a retail price of $99, the 512 MB shuffle holds 120 songs. At $149, the 1 GB shuffle holds 240 songs.

Just three weeks into its release, the shuffle has already generated a lot of excitement. According to Raymond Raza, a customer service specialist at Fry's Electronics in Palo Alto, the iPod shuffle has not yet arrived at the electronics store, but people are calling everyday to check if it is in stock.

"We're getting a lot of calls, and we're not sure when Apple will be sending its shipment to us," Raza said.

Why all the talk? What's the difference between the iPod and the iPod shuffle? The iPod shuffle promotes random song selection. After uploading music from Apple iTunes onto the shuffle, it plays the user's songs in a different order each time the device is used. It's a constant surprise.

Of course, there are exceptions. For people who don't like random ordering, the iPod shuffle will permit users to play from specific playlists, and it has a "Play in Order" mode.

For the technologically challenged user, the iPod shuffle might be a good choice. While the iPod and the iPod mini come with FireWires and USB cables that can get tricky for those who find computers daunting, the iPod shuffle plugs directly into the USB port on most computers — no additional wires necessary.

For people constantly on the run — namely fitness-buffs and joggers — the iPod shuffle is the new "it" gadget. Smaller than a pack of gum and less than an ounce in weight, the shuffle is lightweight and sleek enough to fit in the palm of one's hand or in a back pocket.

For an extra $29, consumers can even keep the shuffle clipped to a secure armband that fits snugly around the wrist for greater convenience. Another $29 will purchase the iPod shuffle Sport Case. This clear case is attached to a bright lanyard that will effectively shield one's music from bright sun, dirt and rain.

However, some users are not so gung-ho about the new iPod product.

"Think function over fashion," said freshman Bradley Neil Pereira. "Sure, the iPod shuffle is cute, but the iPod and iPod mini have the ability to hold many more songs — and that's what you're paying for, aren't you?"

Fellow freshman Matt Wahl thought about purchasing an iPod shuffle but is now reconsidering after careful research. While Apple is advertising the shuffle as the "unpredictable new iPod," Wahl sees right through the company's marketing strategy.

"When you think about the bang for your buck, you want something that will allow you to listen to the songs you want to listen to," Wahl said. "Yes, the shuffle is cheaper and smaller, but it's not economically advantageous."

Similar products have been on the market for years, but Apple has a competitive edge because of iPod's name recognition. After the overwhelming popularity of the iPod and iPod mini, Apple is riding high on the coattails of its past products.

Will the iPod shuffle sell? It seems to have generated enough excitement, but only time will tell.