10 years ago, the iPod classic caused a revolution in the MP3 player market. However, with the iPhone 5 launch imminent and the growing popularity of the iPod touch, Apple is considering axing its debut portable music player, as well as the iPod shuffle.

Although this latest suggestion is unconfirmed, rumours about the iPod classic's destiny have been circulating for some time. In March this year, former CEO Steve Jobs responded to speculation regarding the iPod classic by saying “We have no plans to [discontinue the device].”

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However, Apple weblog TUAW says they have received a tip that the iPod classic and iPod shuffle will be axed from the brand's line-up with 'product transition' being the most likely explanation.

Not much has changed in terms of the iPod classic's design and technology over the past decade. However, Apple now largely use flash-based memory in most of its devices whereas the classic uses a platter-based hard drive. The iPod Nano now performs the same basic functions as the shuffle but benefits from a screen and user interface as opposed to a basic memory stick with playback functionality.

Although the source of this information was not revealed, it did not come from an analyst, where rumours are widely greeted with a pinch of salt. Any confirmation over the future of the iPod classic and iPod shuffle will met with great interest from die-hard Apple fans, however it seems the company is keen to move forward with new, original products, leaving behind iconic yet slightly dated devices.

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