What Happens When iTunes Syncs With My iPod?
ITunes is Apple's desktop media manager -- there's a version available for Windows as well -- and it facilitates, among other functions, one-touch transfer of music, video and other media from your computer to iPod and iPhone devices. Known as "syncing," this process is the default means by which you keep your iPod's content up to date.
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Media Update
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The primary reason you sync your iPod with iTunes is to update its music -- and video, if your device accommodates it -- library. When your sync your iPod with iTunes, the program updates your device to reflect the current media contained with iTunes. If you add a CD to your iTunes Library and sync your iPod with it, for example, those songs appear on your iPod, pending availability of space on the device.
Contact Sync
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If you use an iPod Touch or an iPhone, your iPod is capable of storing contacts' phone numbers, email addresses and other information -- and iTunes helps you easily manage this information and keep it backed up on your computer. Within iTunes, select a contact list from email programs like Gmail or MSN Hotmail. Sync your iPod Touch or iPhone to iTunes with this contact list selected to keep the information stored in both current.
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Software Updates
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Syncing your iPod with iTunes also keeps the device's software up to date, ensuring your iPod is always operating with the latest software from Apple. If a software update for your device is available, iTunes informs you via a pop-up. Click "Yes" to install the software update. If you use an iPhone, syncing your phone also updates your phone to reflect your network's current settings, which ensures all features work as intended with your mobile carrier.
Pitfalls of Syncing
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Although syncing is simple and quick, it isn't without potential pitfalls. If your iTunes music library becomes deleted, for example, avoid syncing your iPod with your computer -- doing so deletes all music from your iPod as well. Additionally, downloading software updates can undo personalized changes you've made to your iPod Touch or iPhone -- namely, if you've unlocked either device to allow for the download of third-party applications or, in the case of your iPhone, to be used with different mobile carriers.
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