Jupiter Research forecasts that U.S. shipments of MP3 players will almost double in 2003 to over 3.5 million, and will continue to grow almost 50% per year for the next three years. Demand for MP3
players with hard drives will outstrip demand for those with flash memory starting in 2004. By 2006, the installed base of MP3 players will top 26 million, establishing a critical mass of users that
will help spur digital music sales. Jupiter Research's new report, "Portable Music Device Forecast, 2002 - 2008" found that nearly 60% of consumers in the market to buy a music player will be
shopping online for the holidays, seeking convenience and the ability to mail gifts directly.
