A new update appeared on Apple’s site today. It has lowered the price of its 1 GB iPod Shuffle to only $49, while adding a new 2 GB model for $69.

This sudden price change isn’t as unexpected as it seems. Flash memory prices have been falling for ages, and one can easily pick up a 1 GB or even 2 GB player for $30 or less. The 1 GB Shuffles are available now on Apple’s website, but those wishing to pick up one of the new 2 GB models will have to wait until the end of the month for their release.

So, what does one do with a screenless 1 GB MP3 player? That’s the million dollar question for today. Perhaps they would be useful for someone with a very small music library or for working out, but most people would find themselves more comfortable with the Shuffle’s big brother the Nano, which offers more storage space and a color screen starting at $100.