A free Android app called ClassiPod is bringing back the nostalgia of the original iPod, complete with its iconic click wheel and minimalist design.
Samsung may dominate headlines with its latest smartphones, but nostalgia for older devices remains strong. The iPod, discontinued by Apple in 2022 after a 21‑year run, left behind a legacy as one of the most influential portable music players ever made.
For many, its absence created a gap in the market for a tactile, immersive listening experience. That gap is now being filled by ClassiPod, a free Android app developed by Adeeteya.
ClassiPod emulates the iPod Classic interface, dividing the phone screen into a small display at the top and a sound‑enabled click wheel at the bottom.
The app runs offline, automatically scanning local music files, which makes it particularly useful for those who maintain digital collections outside of streaming services. Supported formats include MP3, WAV, OGG, FLAC, M4A and AAC, ensuring broad compatibility.
The app recreates hallmark features of the iPod era, such as horizontal album art scrolling, star ratings for songs and “On The Go” playlists. Users can customise the look by switching between iPod colours and adjusting click-wheel sensitivity, while an immersive mode provides a full‑screen experience, and split‑screen functionality mirrors that of later iPod Classic models.
Some users have noted minor quality issues with brighter skins, but overall feedback has been positive.
On Google Play, ClassiPod holds a 4.4‑star rating across nearly 500 reviews, with more than 10,000 downloads to date. YouTube creators have showcased the app, further boosting its visibility.
While some users have reported frustrations with library scanning and directory selection, the developer actively responds to feedback and encourages contributions via GitHub. Planned updates include support for lyrics, photo viewing, video playback and even iPod‑style mini‑games.
Currently, ClassiPod is available on Google Play, F‑Droid and GitHub, where users can access installation guides and troubleshooting tips. The app is not yet available for iOS, leaving iPhone owners to explore hardware alternatives such as the AiMoonsa Music Player, JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 or HiBy Digital M300.
For Android users, however, ClassiPod offers a rare chance to relive the tactile, minimalist joy of the iPod era without spending a penny.
