What do you do when everyone has the same product?

In the 90s, screen saver programs became a popular way to personalize computers. Originally, screen savers were created to protect your monitor from having an image "burned" into the screen if nothing changed for a long period of time. Even after they solved this technical problem, people still loved and used screen savers because they could project their personalities onto these beige boxes.

Today, protective cases for iPods allow owners to individualize their mp3 players in a similar way. Some of my favorite examples are iPod Gelaskins, which have a diverse range of quirky patterns and playful illustrations. They fit all the major kinds of iPod, including the Nano, new Nano, mini and video lines. These covers are made with scratch resistant 3M vinyl (sort of an ironic choice of material for an mp3 player accessory.)

For £9.95 (US$18.40) on Urban Retro, the Gelaskins are an affordable way to both protect and personalize your iPod.