iPod Updater 2005-09-23 (#5): Problems with iPod Shuffle

Problems with iPod Shuffle Up until now, most of the reports we've analyzed for iPod Updater 2005-09-23 deal with models that were not intended to be affected by the update (the updater only includes software changes for the iPod Shuffle -- bringing its software version to 1.1.2). However, we've now received a few reports from readers who are having issues iPod Shuffles after the update:

MacFixIt reader Paul Ingraham writes:

"My iPod shuffle mostly behaved well until the recent update (iPod Updater 2005-09-23). Since, then I've experienced several annoying problems with the shuffle's interactions with iTunes, including: failure of the computer to mount the iPod volume, failure to dismount the iPod volume, failure to update (hanging halfway through), failure to eject, loss of exactly 41 songs (?) on the shuffle each time it mounts, and so on. The mess is so bad it's hard to even sort out all the specific things that are going wrong."

Others users report that their iPod Shuffles are recognized by the Finder, but not by iTunes.

Potential workarounds

Reset In some cases, performing a reset on your iPod Shuffle, as documented in Knowledge Base article #300595, can help restore recognition in iTunes and alleviate some of the other aforementioned issues.

Resetting your iPod Shuffle simply requires disconnecting the unit from your Mac (if connected) and turning the unit off (green strip not visible), waiting 5 seconds, then turning the unit back on.

Reverting firmware Some users report that using the original disc that shipped with the iPod Shuffle to re-apply the original software (firmware) restores proper operation.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• iPod Updater 2005-09-23 (#4): Problems after updating: Try eliminating USB hubs, switching ports
• iPod Updater 2005-09-23: Not all songs transfer to iPod, transfer interrupted; solutions
• iPod Updater 2005-09-23: Problems with models other than the iPod Shuffle
• Apple releases iPod Updater 2005-09-23 -- software update for iPod Shuffle

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