iPods Covered By This Article
This article explains how to update the operating system on the following iPods:
iPod Classic, all models iPod nano, all models iPod Shuffle, all models
What You’ll Need
One of the iPods listed above. A Mac or a PC. On a PC or a Mac running macOS 10.14 or earlier, the latest version of iTunes, installed on your computer (learn about updating iTunes here). On a Mac running macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or higher, you don’t need any additional software. An iPod-compatible USB cable (one should have come with your iPod).
How to Update iPod Software
To update your iPod’s operating system, follow these steps:
Restoring an iPod Before Updating the Software
In some (not very common) cases, you may need to restore your iPod to factory settings before you can update its software. Restoring your iPod erases all of its data and settings and returns it to the state it was in when you first got it. After it’s been restored, then you can update the operating system.
On a PC or Mac running macOS 10.14, open iTunes. On a Mac running macOS 10.15, open the Finder.
In iTunes, this is in the top left corner, just beneath the playback controls.In Finder, it’s in the left-hand sidebar, in the Devices section.
First, it shows what version of the operating system you’re currently running. Then it says whether that version is the latest operating system or if there’s a software update available. If a new version is available, click Update. If you think there’s a new version, but it’s not showing up here, click Check for Update. If you need to do this, sync your iPod with iTunes first to create a backup of all your data. Then perform the update. After that, read this article for step-by-step instructions on how to restore your iPod.
