"...The best thing that I as an Apple user gets out of this situation is the comfort Apple won't go out of business anytime soon. Oh and countless accessories but how many protective cases can you possibly use or need?"...
Actually, the best iPod accessory is not a protective case (lame), it is software: MPFreaker 1.0 (www.mpfreaker.com) But as you are leaning towards the darkside and MPFreaker is only available to Mac users, you are SOL mah fren!
In platform wars, to be fair, it must be said that PC's are cheap and provide internet access. If however you have evolved (at all...hello?) you must have a Mac. No question. No bias. Truth.
iPod Users: You Aren't Special Anymore