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How to Format an iPod
Edited by Jsteinseiffer, Ben Rubenstein, Jonathon, Flickety and 32 others
Plan to sell your iPod, or just want to completely wipe it clean? This article will tell you how to restore your iPod to its original factory setting.
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Steps
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1Be sure you have the newest version of iTunes available. At the time of this writing, this would be version 10 (10.2.1 for Mac version). This is available from Apple's website, or through the link at bottom.Ad -
2Attach your iPod to your computer by whatever means it uses (dock, USB, Firewire, etc) -
3Open iTunes. -
4Click the button in the sidebar that says "YOUR_IPOD'S_NAME" -
5Click the tab at top that says "Summary." -
6Click the button that says "Restore." -
7Choose "Use Newest Version" when you are prompted for restore options - this will restore your iPod to the newest iPod software available. -
8Wait for the computer to restore the iPod.Ad
Video
Tips
- Be sure your computer will be on for enough time to format your iPod - especially if you have a large capacity iPod or just a lot of songs.
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Warnings
- This will erase everything from your iPod. Think before you act.
- With older iPods you'll need a wall power connector, otherwise it cannot complete the process.
- Obviously, don't remove the cable when it says "Do Not Disconnect" on the iPod; This could damage the software/firmware being updated in the iPod.
Things You'll Need
- iPod
- Computer
- Newest version of iTunes software (free from Apple).
Related wikiHows
Sources and Citations
- Apple iTunes Download - Free iTunes Download
- Apple 5 Rs Assistant - Detailed support for all iPod models
Article Info
Categories: IPods
Recent edits by: Tator Tats, BR, SmarmySnodsnick
In other languages:
Español: Cómo formatear un iPod, Português: Como Formatar um iPod, Deutsch: Wie man ein iPod formatiert
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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 452,365 times.
