How Do I Import My Music to My iPod Without Erasing My Whole Library?

If your iPod is set to automatically sync with iTunes when connected to your computer, you may inadvertently erase your iPod library when you import (or transfer) new music to your iPod. With the automatic setting, adding new music to your iPod will automatically delete any music that is on your iPod but no longer in your iTunes library. However, you can override this setting and protect your music from disappearing by setting your iPod to update manually.

Instructions

1. Plug your iPod into your computer using the USB-to-dock cable. Apple iTunes should launch automatically. If iTunes fails to open, open the program manually.

2. Click and highlight the "iPod" icon in iTunes. You will see it in the left navigation column beneath the "Library" tab. After you click the icon, your iPod specifications will appear in the main window.

3. Check the option that reads "Manually manage music and videos" beneath the "Options" heading. This will prevent your iPod from automatically syncing to your iTunes library and protect your music library from accidental deletions.

4. Click "Apply" in the bottom right corner of the window.

5. Import music to your iPod. You can now manually drag songs directly to your iPod and add them without erasing the songs that are already there.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see that the "Manually manage music and videos" box is already checked in your iTunes player when the iPod loads, you do not need to do anything more. Your songs are already safe.

References

• Apple Support: Managing Content Manually on iPod and iPhone

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish