How to Format an iPod

Author Info

Last Updated: February 17, 2023 Tested

Plan to sell your iPod, or just want to completely wipe it clean? This article will tell you how to restore your iPod to its original factory setting.

Steps

Be sure you have the newest version of iTunes available. At the time of this writing, this would be version 10 (10.2.1 for Mac version). This is available from Apple's website, or through the link at bottom.
Choose "Use Newest Version" when you are prompted for restore options - this will restore your iPod to the newest iPod software available.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

What if I want to install an iOS that is the latest version but my iPod touch keeps insisting that I have the latest version of iOS?

Community Answer

Some versions are not compatible with devices. For example, you cannot install iOS 11 on an iPhone 4, it just doesn't work. Phones are designed to only work with software up to a certain point because sometimes the system isn't compatible.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Question

How do I get the iPod out of recovery mode?

Community Answer

Hold the power button on top of the iPod down, and the iPod will restart to the lock screen.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
Question

Can an iPod classic be restored without losing all media?

Community Answer

No; the restore deletes all the data and files on the iPod.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 1

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Video

Tips

Be sure your computer will be on for enough time to format your iPod - especially if you have a large capacity iPod or just a lot of songs.

Thanks
Helpful 8 Not Helpful 11

Warnings

This will erase everything from your iPod. Think before you act.

Thanks
Helpful 11 Not Helpful 3
With older iPods you'll need a wall power connector, otherwise it cannot complete the process.

Thanks
Helpful 7 Not Helpful 4
Obviously, don't remove the cable when it says "Do Not Disconnect" on the iPod; This could damage the software/firmware being updated in the iPod.

Thanks
Helpful 7 Not Helpful 5