How to Automatically Transfer Songs to an iPod Shuffle With iTunes

Automatically transferring or synching songs to an iPod Shuffle is a great way to save time and energy while keeping your iPod updated. It only takes a few minutes to change the settings to allow iTunes to automatically transfer songs, but it will save you plenty of time in the future. Changing the settings is easy, and almost anyone can do it. The steps are simple as long as you are familiar with iTunes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• iTunes account
• iPod Shuffle

1. Double-click on the iTunes logo on your desktop and open the program. Once it is finished, find the link on the left side of the screen that reads “iTunes Music Store.”

2. Click on the “Music” link under the “iTunes Store” menu toward the top left of the page. Browse through the selections and choose the music you would like to purchase. Once you click on the icon “Buy Now,” the music is transferred to your library and charged to your account automatically.

3. Rip music from discs you currently own in addition to buying new music. Insert your CD into the drive on the computer, and the program will automatically recognize the media. A prompt will appear on the screen with a variety of options. Click on the option that will state “Rip Music with iTunes.”

4. Let the music load into your library completely. It is important to have new selections in the library so iTunes will have selections to automatically transfer. You can also import music from other programs on your computer by clicking on the “Import” option under the “File” menu at the top of the screen.

5. Hook your iPod up to the computer with the white USB cord provided with your iPod. The larger end connects to the iPod while the smaller end will hook up to the USB ports on your computer.

6. Locate the category “Devices,” about mid-way down on the left hand menu. Under this category you will find your iPod. It will display the name.

7. Allow the main screen to load. This is the “Summary” page and will give you information about your iPod Shuffle, such as its remaining capacity. At the lower end of the page will be options to customize your iPod. Make sure that the option “Manually Manage Music and Videos” is not selected. Otherwise, automatic transfers are impossible.

8. Click on the tab “Music” located next to the “Summary” tab at the top of the screen. The screen will load, showing different menus and options to tailor your iPod to your needs. To open up the next menu, check the option “Sync Music.”

9. Select the next option, “Selected Playlists,” and then choose “Songs.” This will enable iTunes to transfer songs onto your Shuffle. When you would like the program to transfer other media, such as playlists or podcasts, check the appropriate box.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not like the “1-click” purchase options, you can change the settings on iTunes to allow you to put music in a “Shopping Cart” before purchasing it.
• Be sure to eliminate songs from your iPod once you are finished to ensure room on your iPod Shuffle for your new songs.
• Do not rip music from CDs that aren't yours without permission, or from programs that allow music to be shared over a network. This is stealing and you can be prosecuted.
• You must keep your iPod plugged into the computer until the “Do Not Disconnect” screen disappears. Otherwise, not all of your music will be transferred and the battery will not be fully charged.