Despite what you might think (or hope), that iPod isn’t going to last a lifetime. You could upgrade (like I did), or call in Demetrios Leontaris.

Leontaris is also known as the “iPod Doctor.” CNN/Fortune has a neat story about this guy, who whips around Manhattan like a superhero, solving people’s iPod dramas.

His car doubles as his workspace, but you won’t see Leontaris approaching clients with a “pssst, buddy.” He drives up, makes his assessment, does a quick fix, and off he goes. The standard fee is $70.

Apparently, this is a new business that is popping up all over New York City. The story says that with 150 million iPods out there, Leontaris doesn’t have a shortage of work. He also doesn’t get any help from Apple; most of the spare parts are from broken units or bought from Chinese manufacturers.

It’s a cool business model. I am wondering if it will start popping up in other cities, with “iPod emergency rooms” out in the suburbs. Would you or have you ever used an iPod doctor?

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.