I agree that Sony is the same side of the Apple coin but their marketing reach and penetration is unbeatable (but overpriced as you say). As for your iPod battery remember to follow the guidelines I made on my blog about using rechargeable Li-Ion battery packs. My boss got his phone a couple of months before me but he’s on his third battery (he constantly tops up the charge) and he’s on his 5th laptop battery (again constantly on top up charge). If you can, try and give it a full discharge cycle before re-charging. Your battery will last must longer and will hold it’s capacity better. Once the damage is done though it’s a slippery slope and Steve Jobs will be only too happy to take your cash for a 5 dollar battery 🙂