iPod Shuffle (first-generation) Reset Utility 1.0.1: Success resolving music playback, recognition issues

Several readers are reporting success in resolving various iPod Shuffle (first generation) issues with the aid of Apple's recently revised reset utility 1.0.1. In particular, a frustrating issue where some music purchased from the iTunes Store would not play on on some first-generation iPod Shuffles is resolved for a number of users. A problem where the iPod Shuffle is not recognized by the host Mac has also been resolved by this update for many users.

One reader writes of a newfound ability to playback previously unplayable purchased tracks: "Previously my first generation 1 GB Shuffle would not play purchased songs but after using the recent 1.0.1 utility it plays purchased songs fine."

Andreas Carlsson reports that his iPod Shuffle is now recognized where it was not before: "My sons iPod was totally locked. Couldn't mount it, could not see it or do anything with it. Since the warranty time had passed we thought of the iPod as dead and had laid it aside. Quite bad I thought. With the reset utility the iPod was fixed and he is now using it as normal again."

Apple provides the following instructions for using the iPod Shuffle Reset Utility (after downloading and installing the software, it will be located in the /Applications/Utilities directory):

1. Quit all running applications on your computer
2. Launch the iPod shuffle Reset Utility.
3. Connect iPod shuffle to a USB port on your computer. Do not connect iPod shuffle to a USB port on your keyboard, or other non-powered USB hub.
4. Click the Restore button.
5. If prompted, enter an Admin user name and password.
6. The restore process will start.
7. When it is complete, quit iPod shuffle Reset Utility and open iTunes to sync music to your iPod shuffle.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• Success with iPod Shuffle (first-generation) Reset Utility 1.0.1?

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