So far I was not too deep into neither music nor podcasts and so never bought a IPod or similar devices. Actually did not find much use of it till now as work is very close so very less time commuting and everywhere else I have access to Internet and computers.
I see that Microsoft might soon be coming out with a portable wireless player. I hope that this player does a bit more then just playing music which will be an added bonus when buying compared to just buying an IPod. Another positive to consumers might be that with added competition there might be price wars where consumers might be overall winners.