Updating iPod
Summary
If you need to update or restore an iPod shuffle, then click here.
Background
First, it is important to understand the difference between "update" and "restore."
"Update" simply updates the software that controls iPod and does not affect the songs and files stored on iPod.
"Restore" erases the iPod and restores it to its original factory condition. Because restoring iPod erases all of the songs, videos, photos, and files on iPod, make sure to back up your files first.
For instructions on how to restore iPod, see "Restoring iPod to factory settings".
Products Affected
iPod, iPod mini, iPod shuffle, iPod nano, iTunes 7 for Windows, iTunes 7 for Mac, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000
How to update iPod for Windows using Windows Vista, Windows XP or Windows 2000
- Download and install the latest version of iTunes. When you have the latest version, use the iTunes menus to check for updates. On Windows choose Help > Check for Updates.
- Connect your iPod to your computer using the USB or FireWire cable that came with your iPod and open iTunes if it is not already open.
- In order to be updated on a PC, your iPod must be formatted for a PC. If it is not, you will receive a message stating that your iPod needs to be reformatted. If you receive this message, please read this article before proceeding. If you are unsure of your iPod's format, read this article.
- If iTunes detects that a newer version of iPod software is available for your model, you will be prompted to download and install the new version. If the newest software has already been downloaded you may be prompted to install it.
- Depending on the model iPod you have and whether you are using a USB or FireWire connection to connect your iPod, you may be asked to leave your iPod attached to the computer for the update to complete or you may be asked to connect the iPod to the iPod Power Adapter that came with your iPod (Note: not all iPod models ship with a power adapter). Be sure to follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update.
- During the update process, you will notice an Apple logo and progress bar appear on the iPod display (Note: this may be difficult to see since the iPod's backlight will be turned off). Once this is completed, you can resume normal use of your iPod. If you notice a different icon on the iPod screen read this article and the follow the related instructions.
How to update iPod for Macintosh
- Download and install the latest version of iTunes. When you have the latest version, use the iTunes menus to check for updates. On the Mac choose iTunes > Check for Updates.
- Connect your iPod to your Mac using the USB or FireWire cable that came with your iPod and open iTunes if it is not already open.
- In order to be updated on a Mac, your iPod must be formatted for a Mac. If it is not, you will not be able to update your iPod, only restore. In this case, please read the this article before proceeding. If you are unsure of your iPod's format, read this article.
- If iTunes detects that a newer version of iPod software is available for your model, you will be prompted to download and install the new version. If the newest software has already been downloaded you may be prompted to install it.
- Depending on the model iPod you have and whether you are using a USB or FireWire port to connect your iPod, you may be asked to leave you iPod attached to the computer for the update to complete or you may be asked to connect the iPod to the iPod Power Adapter that came with your iPod. Be sure to follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update (Note: not all iPod models come with an iPod Power Adapter).
- During the update process, you will notice an Apple logo and progress bar appear on the iPod display (Note: this may be difficult to see since the iPod's backlight will be turned off). Once this is completed, you can resume normal use of your iPod. If you notice a different icon on the iPod screen read this article and follow the related instructions.
Additional Information
93936: "iPod iconology or what does this picture on my iPod mean?"
60983 "Restoring iPod to factory settings"
60984 "iPod: How to find software version"
Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple’s recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.