Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it possible to use multiple iPods on the same computer?
By Jerrod H.
Contributing Editor, iLounge
Published: Wednesday, December 24, 2003
News Category: iPod Usage
Yes, and you have several options:
1) Both users share the same (Windows or Mac) login account, and thus the same iTunes Library.
For this option, the auto sync feature must be turned off for both participating iPods, but may be the wiser method if both users have similar tastes. To do this in iTunes (Mac or Windows), mount one iPod and click on the iPod Preferences button in the lower right corner of the window, then select either ‘Automatically update selected plyalists only’ or ‘Manually manage songs and playlists.’ This will deselect ‘Automatically update all songs and playlists’ so you can now sync to multiple iPods. Now, you must either manually load each iPod, or automatically sync to only a select number of playlists.
2) Users each have a distinct (Windows or Mac) login account, and thus do not share an iTunes library.
When multiple users on a computer, each with their own iPod, each have their own login account, their iTunes libraries are completely distinct. In this situation, the iPods can automatically sync their entire respective libraries (as is the default setting). However, if both users have similar tastes in music, they may find unnecessary desktop hard drive space being wasted, as each distinct iTunes library will have separate copies of identical songs.
Choose the method that suits your situation best.
Next: Can I use my Mac formatted iPod on a Windows PC?
Previous: I have a song that has an annoying minute long silence at the end. Can I get rid of it?
Recent News
- Apple exec Cue accepts Grammy honoring Steve Jobs
- ThinkGeek intros iCade 8-bitty game controller
- Apple requests audits of Foxconn by FLA
- Apple sues Samsung, seeks to block Galaxy Nexus in U.S.
- AT&T doubles upgrade fee to $36
- Apple TV supplies constrained, hint at new model?
- 16GB iPad 2 sees deep discount ahead of new model
- Apple sues Motorola in U.S. over Qualcomm patents
- iLounge Weekly coming early Monday, giveaway reminder
- iBackFlip launches Somersault case for iPad
Recent Reviews
- FLOS / Philippe Starck D’E-light
- Twelve South HoverBar for iPad 2
- Cygnett Apollo for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! ID for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! for iPhone 4/4S
- Case-Mate Pop! With Stand for iPhone 4/4S
- Solid Line Products RightShift 2 Removable Keyboard Case for iPad 2
- Spigen SGP Kuel F60Q Battery Pack
- Just Mobile Highway + Highway Pro for iPod, iPhone + iPad
- Speck CandyShell and CandyShell Satin for iPhone 4/4S
Recent Articles
- iOS Gems: Adventures of Tintin, Reckless Racing 2 + Scramble With Friends
- Ask iLounge 2-3-12
- Making The Case For - And Against - An Apple iTV Television
- Instant Expert: iTunes U for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch
- Instant Expert: Secrets & Features of iBooks 2.0
- iLounge’s 2012 CES Best of Show Awards: Honorable Mentions
- iLounge’s 2012 CES Best of Show Awards: iPod, iPhone, iPad + Mac
- iOS Gems: Bug Princess, Dora Hops Into Phonics, It’s A Small World, Sleepy Jack + X Is For X-Ray
- The Complete Guide to Managing iTunes Videos
- Editorial: As CES Grows, Will Microsoft’s Loss Be Apple’s Gain?