How to update iPod shuffle

Before Starting

It is important to understand the difference between "update" and "restore."

Update does not affect your settings or songs

Updating simply installs the software that controls iPod shuffle.

Restore erases

Restore erases the disk and restores iPod shuffle to its original factory condition. If you only need to update iPod shuffle, do it on the computer where music is normally synced. Updating on another computer will result in all songs being removed from the iPod shuffle.

Warning: Because Restore erases all songs and files on iPod shuffle, make sure to back up any files you've saved on iPod shuffle. Your songs, podcasts, and audiobooks can be synced back to iPod shuffle if the items are part of your iTunes Library.

For instructions on how to restore iPod shuffle, see "Restoring iPod shuffle to factory settings".

How to update iPod shuffle for Windows using Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Mac OS X

1. Download and install the latest version of iTunes.
2. Connect iPod shuffle to your computer via a USB port and open iTunes if it is not already open.
   
3. If iTunes detects that a newer version of iPod software is available, you will be prompted to download and install the new version (Internet access required). If the newest software has already been downloaded you may be promoted to install it. You can manually check for newer software by clicking the Check for Update button under the Settings tab for iPod shuffle (1st and 2nd generation) or the Summary tab for iPod shuffle (3rd generation).
   Note: You may be asked for an admin username and password for the computer.
4. A progress bar will appear on the computer screen indicating that the update process has started. iTunes will present a message instructing you to leave iPod shuffle connected to the computer to complete the restore process. Do not disconnect the iPod shuffle during this step.
5. When the update is complete, iPod shuffle will reappear under Devices in iTunes.