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ATPM 11.10
October 2005

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Hardware Review

by Tom Bridge, tbridge@atpm.com

iPod nano 4 GB

excellent

Developer: Apple Computer

Price: $199 (2 GB); $249 (4 GB)

Requirements: Mac OS X 10.3.4 or Windows 2000 SP4, USB port

Recommended: USB 2.0

Trial: None

There it was, hiding in Steve’s watch pocket the whole presentation, and none of us saw it coming. The iPod nano is a testament to good design engineering. The best way to explain the size of the iPod nano is to ask someone to take out a business card and lay it flat on the table. It’s as long as the long edge of the card, and 2/3rds of the width. It’s smaller than a stack of 15 business cards. That right there is reason enough to consider shelling out for the iPod nano.

I saw the keynote and ogled at what Steve hath wrought with his incredible team of design and test engineers, and felt the technolust rising within me like the mercury on a Central Valley summer day. It was too much to behold. My old 3G iPod is approaching its end of life as the battery slowly and surely dies, and my Shuffle can’t hold but a quarter as much, so it was off to Pentagon City two days after Steve had announced the Nano.

ipod-nano-1

Taking it out of the box will cement with you just how small this technical marvel is. The packaging is along the same vein as the packaging for Apple’s other small technical wonder, the AirPort Express, featuring a box that opens much like a book to reveal the new member of your technical stable. It sits there, wrapped in the usual plastic skin that reads “Don’t Steal Music.”

Now, this is not your father’s iPod anymore: FireWire docking is sadly gone with this new machine, rendering all those FireWire dock cables you have lying around obsolete, fodder for Craiglist and eBay. It does, however, fit in an old 3G dock quite nicely, provided that you swap the dock connector for a USB 2.0 version. Of course, there are many who would object to such a transition, and I cannot say that I blame them. Few computers older than a year have a USB 2.0 port on them, leaving the user to suffer through transferring large files over a piddling USB 1.1 connection in its wake. This move is not lost on me, but I will say this: I do not mind seeing more companies adopt USB 2.0 as a decent serial standard. Perhaps this will encourage people like Canon and Nikon to consider adding it to their digital cameras for speedy downloading of images.

Once full of tunes, contacts, and calendars, I took my black Nano out for a spin. Sure enough, the sound quality astounds, once you drop the little white iPod earbuds in the nearest trash receptacle. Listening on my QuietComfort headphones, I was astounded by the depth of audio ranges, from thumping bass to crystal clear treble on all my recordings, from Switchfoot’s new CD to the Swedischer Rundfunkchor’s Brahms’ Requiem. One thing that has taken some getting used to is the location of the headphone jack, now ensconced on the bottom edge of the iPod next to the dock connector, causing me to hold it upside down the first time I grab it from my pocket. The tiny hold switch that sits atop the Nano is also something of a departure, I felt. It’s smaller and with less feedback than previous models, and I found myself having to stare at the iPod to search out the orange field behind the hold switch’s on position to make sure it was properly set.

ipod-nano-2

One thing to worry about as a purchaser of iPod accessories is which ones will work with the new Nano. Forget about the iTrip; there’s no remote switch. Forget about the FireWire charger for your car; that’s right out. Basically, there are a lot of changes, so don’t necessarily expect everything to work. Thankfully, the Internet being what it is, people are trying and will tell you what they find. Phil Torrone’s dissection of what what works and what does not is the most exhaustive search of devices that you might have that might not work.

Something new to the iPod nano, aside from its fresh color screen, is the ability to lock the screen of your iPod to outside influence, including prying eyes. So set up the lock, and protect your contacts and calendars from the random people who might put their grubby hands all over your iPod. Of course, your own grubby hands are another problem as the back of the iPod will look like a scene from CSI after the fingerprint crowd has been through, and beware of even breathing at your iPod’s screen, as that might well scratch it. (Despite what Apple says, I think it’s is more scratchable than other iPods’ screens.) Get a nifty case, and do yourself a big favor in the process.

I will say that this is the best iPod I’ve ever owned. Small, long-in-the-tooth-battery, good and visible color screen, and the ability to get lost in my jeans. It’s not perfect though, with an easy-to-scratch screen and the problem with the accessories not all working, but overall, if you’re in the market for a new iPod, give the Nano a look. You won’t regret it.

Reader Comments (176)

Jean-Jacques Cortes · October 7, 2005 - 20:19 EST #1
You said "My old 3G iPod is approaching its end of life as the battery slowly and surely dies" and you still continue to buy iPods ? This 3G iPod is only one year or two, it costed you a lot of money, and it can't be used after so few times because it's impossible to change the battery. The iPod is the biggest shame of all recent industry. It's like buying Kleenex at the price of sylk-made (and with gold lace) tissues .
I can't understand how Apple can sell so many iPods.
That's why I won't buy any iPod until it will be possible to change the battery by myself at a reasonable cost.
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · October 7, 2005 - 21:00 EST #2
You CAN change the battery by yourself for a reasonable cost, JJ. A new battery for a 3rd gen iPod is $25 at NewerTech's website. Perhaps you should get out that credit card and pony up.
Jean-Jacques Cortes · October 8, 2005 - 11:07 EST #3
Ok, it's sound a good plan, but Apple doesn't give a lot of explanation about the reason why the battery has short life expectancy (around 1.500 hours as I read somewhere).
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · October 8, 2005 - 11:13 EST #4
Because it's small and subject to odd discharge/recharge cycles? I mean, 2 years of constant charge/recharge cycles will take a toll on any small power cell.
Tim Knorr · October 10, 2005 - 23:48 EST #5
Firewire charging _is_ possible with the nano, just no synching.
Jean-Jacques Cortes · October 13, 2005 - 08:55 EST #6
And what do you think about the new iPod video (and the new iMac too) ?
Steve Rickard · November 1, 2005 - 16:13 EST #7
I am curious about the following comment you made regarding the Nano;"Forget about the FireWire charger for your car; that's right out." Apple specs for the Nano state that it supports IEEE charging and audio out. I currently use the Nano in my car with a firewire charger and audio out set up via a Sik Din dock adapter.
josh cadwell · November 3, 2005 - 21:24 EST #8
i am wondering what kind of ipod to buy wich one would last me the longest tho in the price range of 250$? i want a nano but i heard they break easly so i dont know wich one to get could u help me out
steven · November 10, 2005 - 00:29 EST #9
I just got my ipod nano for my birthday and it seems to be taking forever to charge...angerrr
Don't junk your cables yet · November 14, 2005 - 17:12 EST #10
Hang on to that car charger, the new ipods will still charge over firewire, a sometimes handy feature if you want to charge your pod without having to worry about unmounting it from your system.

Also my experience has been that it's no more scratchable than anything that highly polished and certainly doesn't seem to be any worse than any previous generation. The difference I think is that the higher resolution colour screen shows it up more. That and all the coverage "nano scratches" have had causing people to look harder for them.

Pick white, it's harder to notice scratches - oh and put a screen protector on. Even my cell phone has a screen protector.
rosas · November 30, 2005 - 21:52 EST #11
HI, i want to buy an ipod for christmas.
Wich one do you think is the better option? what are the main differences bettwen the nano and the 30G. Please help me!!!
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · November 30, 2005 - 23:39 EST #12
Rosas - assuming you've already seen the prices and capacities of the various nano and full-size flavors, you might be wondering why the nano may only be roughly half the cost but have less than a tenth of the capacity.

The difference is twofold. 1) physical size. 2) method of storage.

The full-size iPod uses a hard drive whereas the nano uses flash memory. Presently, X amount of storage on a hard drive is far cheaper to produce than the same amount of storage in flash memory, but the memory is not susceptible to the affects of movement, shaking, or dropping like a hard drive-based iPod is.

Because the nano uses flash memory, that's why it can be offered as a much smaller device than the standard iPod.

Other than this, the iPods work exactly the same way. As for which would help you, it is a decision over getting a smaller and lighter iPod that doesn't have a hard drive to be concerned about—at the expense of having less capacity, or getting a larger and heavier iPod with a hard drive which, naturally, should be treated/handled like any other hard drive.
Josh Kurek · December 1, 2005 - 17:15 EST #13
So, finally the i pod bug bit me and now i want one for me and my girlfriend. The only thing that i am concerned about is i heard that the screens on the nanos dont work after a while is that true?
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · December 1, 2005 - 17:22 EST #14
My nano is goin' strong to this day, Josh. They may scratch a bit (BUY A CASE!) but the screen keeps on ticking. They also have a 1 year warranty included plus extra if you buy the extended warranty.
Mathew Bell · December 6, 2005 - 19:56 EST #15
I just purchased and Ipod nano, The only complaint would be how easy it scratches even with only the ear buds in pocket, as for the battery get an extended warranty.
Anastasia Korneeva · December 10, 2005 - 14:11 EST #16
I need an ipod for christmas,but i dont know which one to get.iv heard that the ipod nano breaks.
please help me ASAP!!i need a good ipod!
ATPM Staff · December 10, 2005 - 23:34 EST #17
Anastasia - nanos don't break nanos. People break nanos. Just treat it with care and keep it in a respectable case. The author (look up a few comments) has already answered your question. We can't recommend one iPod over another for quality. It's a matter of which one suits your needs.
Rav · December 11, 2005 - 09:50 EST #18
Am thinking of buying an Ipod Nano for Christmas and I have a question.

When you purchase a 2GB Ipod Nano how do you charge the battery? My old mp3 player you just had to replace a single AAA battery. So do you have to buy anything extra to charge your battery for your Ipod Nano? Or does the Ipod Nano come with a charger?

Thank you,
Rav
ATPM Staff · December 11, 2005 - 11:38 EST #19
Rav - iPods are charged by connecting them to a USB port via the cable that is included. Alternatively, you can purchase an A/C adapter that you can connect the cable to instead then plug into the wall.
JImmy · December 15, 2005 - 19:39 EST #20
I don't know if I should buy an ipod nano or not, I heard that it scratches alot from my friends, but if i buy case it will be fine right?
Hannah · December 21, 2005 - 00:48 EST #21
Ummmm . . . i am getting an iPod nano sson. And i have 1 of those old crappy computers that doesn't have a USB port or anything so how would i download songs to it . . . should i get my friend 2 do it?

-Hannah
ATPM Staff · December 21, 2005 - 15:27 EST #22
Hannah - "crappy computers" Hmm, you answered your own question.

Check Apple's product page for the nano for system requirements.
KoRnFaN94 · December 26, 2005 - 02:38 EST #23
so lemmi get this straight...the 2GB ipod nano...does NOT come with a battery charger?...so does that mean when battery is low, you can take the USB wire and charge it from your comp.?...call me dumb but im kinda new to the ipod world..if the chrger isnt included...then the wire used to transfer songs MUST be?..im starting to have second thoughts on buying it...maybe i should go with an MP3 player
ATPM Staff · December 26, 2005 - 11:49 EST #24
Kornfan - Yes, the wire to connect it to your computer via USB is included and this cable charges and syncs songs into the computer. It would seem that Apple has determined that the largest percentage of iPod users only need to charge/sync at their home or work computer workstation, so only bundling this cable allows them to reduce the basic cost of the iPod instead of making everyone pay for the dock and an A/C adapter. However, you can easily pick up an A/C adapter (which still uses the bundled USB cable, but adapts it to your wall plug) and/or a dock that allows you to simply set the iPod in the cradle to charge instead of having to pick up the USB cable and plug it into the bottom of the iPod.
KoRnFaN94 · December 26, 2005 - 14:21 EST #25
hey man..thanks a bunch i REALLY needed those questions answered...i really apreciate that...peace
Sean Johnson · December 27, 2005 - 16:20 EST #26
My son's nano won't work with the ipod accessories as the Circuit City sales guy said it would. I bought him a FM transmitter/charger and thought it was damaged to I exchanged it; the new one did the same thing. We popped his nano into all of the ipod accessories on display and nothing worked. (nano kept playing but no sound) The sales guy said the nano is supposed to work with all ipod stuff; said he saw it with other nano's and think's there something wrong with ours. (please say it isn't so)

Thanks,

Sean
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · December 27, 2005 - 16:25 EST #27
Sean,

Sorry to hear you're having issues with the new nano. Phil Torrone from Make has a pretty good guide for what should and shouldn't work with the nano. If your accessories are supposed to work, I would recommend calling the manufacturer and speaking with them specifically about using their products with the nano. If that does not resolve your issue, your nano comes with a year of free support from apple, available at 1.800.APL.CARE or at any Apple retailer.

Best,
Tom
Andy Long · December 31, 2005 - 15:29 EST #28
Try backing up your music then doing a full restore - see the last post here - http://www.engadget.com/2004/09/28/alpine-kca-420i-ipod-interface/

sounds like the dock connector sound out may not be enabled when they ship but the full restor fixes it
Andy Ancog · January 7, 2006 - 02:09 EST #29
My ipod has two lines going straight through the screen. What happend and how do you get rid of it?
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · January 7, 2006 - 08:18 EST #30
Andy, I would recommend taking your iPod to an Apple Store for diagnosis.
Mario · January 17, 2006 - 22:46 EST #31
In response to the person who says ipod nano wont carge or takes forever to.

this is common with all mp3 player that charge via USB, the indicator SAYS its still charging, but after three hours or so with the nano, unplug it, and plug it back in really quick, and it should show a fully charged icon thingy. i experieanced the same thing :) oh and does anyone know how to get the album art to appear on the nano. i got it to appear on itunes, but not my nano. i looked at costumer support and all, but no help came to me
Hakim Muhammad · January 23, 2006 - 18:28 EST #32
I have just purchased an iPod 60 gig with video. The problem I have, which is a big one, is that the videos I already have on my computer will play on the iPod but with NO SOUND. I went through the steps to convert the videos to the iPod format. The quality is amazing but I would like to hear them as well. Can you help me? I am on the verge of returning it. The video aspect was the main reason I shelled out $400.00 bucks.
JULIANNE · January 26, 2006 - 05:07 EST #33
Thus far it's love hate. Love my iPod, hate apple for not giving me a charger. Instead of buying the aplle charger i bought two travel chargers, a gaurd for it an dand arm band for 30 bucks! Just did it a day ago so I'll let you know. The rviews sounded good though.

Nonetheless, I'm at my computer cause it works pluged in just desn't charge. INclude a 5 dollar charger or let folks know its a good extra buy. I spent like 5 hours to figure that out!
ATPM Staff · January 26, 2006 - 09:41 EST #34
Julianne - this may not comfort you much, but it seems Apple's research determined the majority of owners charge their iPods when they connect it to their computer to sync. Thus, by eliminating the A/C adapter, they were able to reduce the initial cost of the iPod.
Violet · February 3, 2006 - 21:54 EST #35
Hi everyone,

It says the nano doesn't support USB 1.1 ... now if I remember correctly the same was said for the mini, but still it was no problem to use 1.1 (slowly, but surely as I like to call it ;) )

Anyone like to share his/her experience on this before I head of to buy it?

Thanks!
ATPM Staff · February 3, 2006 - 22:09 EST #36
Violet - no worries. It'll work. Apple's technical specifications page states the connectivity requirements: "Macintosh computer with USB port (USB 2.0 recommended)."
Tyler Bartlett · February 16, 2006 - 18:22 EST #37
So im debating whether to get the iPod nano and I was wondering if its worth all its $250 and if people have a problem with losing it? And do you think its suitable for a 13 year old?
ATPM Staff · February 16, 2006 - 19:45 EST #38
Tyler - the review on this page rated it excellent, so that's our opinion. Ultimately, one must decide for themselves whether it's worth the money. The information we've presented here is meant to aid you in your decision—not make the decision for you.

As for whether a 13-year-old can take care of an iPod, that depends on the kid. I've known some children even younger who'd do fine with a nano, and I've known some older teenagers with whom I'd be extremely worried about taking care of it.
Chris · February 18, 2006 - 09:24 EST #39
OK - so I am contemplating between the iPoD Nano and the IRiver H10. Everything but the size is swaying me to the IRiver. Support (we have a T30 which IRiver replaced in a week - no questions asked), FM receiver, voice recorder, charger, replaceable battery, etc. All the bad I read about the Nano is fragility, battery, Apple support, price, having to buy accessories - bringing up the $$. BUT - the size and shape is wonderful and I hear the music quality is awesome. HELP?!? What do you recommend?
ATPM Staff · February 18, 2006 - 15:48 EST #40
Chris - as we just replied to Tyler, the review on this page stands as our opinion of the iPod nano. Personally, I believe some of the reports of the nano's quality are blown out of proportion. People have this mistaken impression the thing is indestructible. In reality, it's still a gloss-coated piece of electronics that can be damaged if you drop it, but if you take normal precautions like not squeezing it into the pocket of a tight pair of jeans, or letting it drop, it should do you fine.

As for the other reasons to go with either an iPod or an iRiver, it's a pretty simple discussion. If you want to use the convenience that iTunes offers for syncing, you must use an iPod. If you don't need to play AAC format files and have no interest in the iTunes music store, and the iRiver does everything you want it to do, it may be your better choice.
Bill Browne · March 11, 2006 - 19:15 EST #41
Hi,

I just bought my daughter the Ipod Black Nano (and a pink leather case to protect the unit). The question of purchasing the extended warranty from Best Buy has come up and I have heard good and bad on the needs for an additional $30. Not much money but I know that there are not a lot of moving parts and with the exception of the screen what else should really break? I would appreciate any comments on the need for an extended warranty.

Many thanks
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · March 12, 2006 - 14:34 EST #42
Bill - ultimately, you will have to decide for yourself whether you want the peace of mind a warranty brings. You're right that a nano with no moving parts may not be something for which you feel like you need a warranty. It'll depend on what kind of (ab)use you believe it will see.

Something I can, however, recommend is that you compare the difference between Best Buy's $30 warranty and Apple's $60 warranty. Check the duration and exactly what is covered.
eddy · March 21, 2006 - 19:17 EST #43
hey i want to get an ipod nano but i donno if i should because i heard that the battery dies after 2 years, is that truth, if it is how can i get a new one

if u think im crazy u can, because my friend charged his ipod, after charging it, we looked through it and we could see videos like the simpson and dave chapelle it was amazing so i was wondering if this is possible
Tom Bridge (ATPM Staff) · March 21, 2006 - 19:24 EST #44
All batteries wear out with time. Repacing the battery on the nano is, currently, not possible, I believe.
christopher garcia · April 8, 2006 - 18:43 EST #45
is usb cable for charging the ipod nano and used for putting songs in it please help me i dont know if i should buy it if i have to buy the charger to.
ATPM Staff · April 8, 2006 - 19:43 EST #46
Christopher - the USB cable will charge your iPod while your computer is on. The only reason you would need an A/C adapter or vehicle power port adapter is if you wanted to charge it while not attached to your computer.
nate · May 6, 2006 - 14:53 EST #47
should i get a new shuffle on ebay for cheaper, or buy it in the store to get the extended warranty??
ATPM Staff · May 6, 2006 - 23:36 EST #48
Nate - ATPM's purpose is to provide data in a review such as this to help you decide whether to buy a product. There's not much advice we can give you on where to buy it. There are pros and cons both ways. Sure, you can get it from eBay possibly cheaper, and it may work fine with no worries on warranty. But keep in mind that because Apple fairly well fixes the prices on their products, I'd be suspicious of any Apple product that claims to be brand new and is priced at a discount more than 10%. If it's cheaper, there's a strong possibility it's either not actually new, or it's a knock-off.
Carly · May 11, 2006 - 18:48 EST #49
hey u guys,
i want to get one for my 14th bday, i went to radioshack.com and i was wondering if an ipod nano is worth $149.00?? well thanks a lot!! bye
ATPM Staff · May 11, 2006 - 19:04 EST #50
Carly - did you not see our Excellent rating at the top of this page. ATPM would not give an Excellent rating if we felt something wasn't worth the price.

We've presented all the data we can to help you make a purchase decision. That's what our reviews are for. But it is, ultimately, up to you to actually make the purchase decision.
hussein · June 8, 2006 - 19:16 EST #51
hey guys, i see your all quite knowlegable about this subject, so can you answer this question?

When i plug in my ipod, it says, "updating, dont disconnect", and starts charging... However, then when it's done "updating" it stops charging, and ive got through hell trying to get the "ipod 4g nano" to charge..., its plugged into my usb port with the wires given :(
ATPM Staff · June 8, 2006 - 20:43 EST #52
Hussein - ATPM serves to provide information in a review to aid in purchasing decisions of the iPod products. You may be better off finding an iPod forum to ask your question—especially if you're using it with a Windows machine. We're a Macintosh venue.

What we can say for now is—are you sure it's not already fully charged, or that you're not reading the on-screen indicators properly and it actually is charging? If you're certain those two situations aren't the case, perhaps you should inquire with Apple as to whether there is a problem they need to remedy.
Patrick · June 18, 2006 - 00:55 EST #53
Hey

You all were saying that the 2GB Nano didn't come with a charger, and some other stuff about apple studies show that blah blah, and I was just wondering after a long night of searching google for the answer, does the 4GB Nano come with a charger, or am I going to have to look for one.

Chow
ATPM Staff · June 18, 2006 - 02:29 EST #54
Patrick - it's a bit misleading to say the iPods do not come with a charger. To be clear, they don't come with a separate A/C charger for plugging it into the wall. Those are sold separately. However, many people do not need one. Simply connecting the iPod to your computer via the provided USB cable will charge it. The A/C charger you can purchase separately lets you instead plug that USB cable into the back of the A/C charger, then into the wall—without the need of a computer. You can also buy a second cable if you choose to leave the one that came with the iPod with your computer at home.

You apparently weren't exhaustive in your long night of searching because the Tech Specs portion of Apple's iPod nano page implicitly states: "Charging via USB or FireWire to computer system or power adapter (sold separately)"
Patrick · June 18, 2006 - 13:51 EST #55
Thanks, I just wanted to make sure, and I had seen that, I just thought it was a spare in case you need to replace it.
Charlie · July 26, 2006 - 00:29 EST #56
iPod nanos wont break easily if you dont sit on it sideways or something. i've had my iPod for about.. 8 months now and i play football and basketball with it and its lasted me just fine. i got one of those skins and its not scrathed.
Trevor · August 15, 2006 - 00:44 EST #57
hey i was wondering. i hav a 1GB ipod nano and I would like to know how to put videos on it.
ATPM Staff · August 15, 2006 - 08:59 EST #58
Trevor - the iPod nano does not support video—only music and photos. Only the full-size iPods support video.
anonymous · August 23, 2006 - 14:49 EST #59
"Trevor - the iPod nano does not support video--only music and photos. Only the full-size iPods support video."

That's not *entirely* true: http://ipodlinux.org/Main_Page

However, this is a very risky process! I wouldn't try it unless you are REALLY desperate about video playback, on not such a great screen for watching video...
ATPM Staff · August 23, 2006 - 14:53 EST #60
Well, all right, it can be hacked into performing video playback. But here at ATPM, unless we present an article that is specifically concerning such hacks, our advice will remain within the realm of normal operation. Therefore, inasmuch as the out-of-the-box nano product is concerned, it does not support video.

Besides, who in the world wants to watch video on a screen the size of a postage stamp?
David · August 24, 2006 - 17:44 EST #61
"As for the other reasons to go with either an iPod or an iRiver, it's a pretty simple discussion. If you want to use the convenience that iTunes offers for syncing, you must use an iPod. If you don't need to play AAC format files and have no interest in the iTunes music store, and the iRiver does everything you want it to do, it may be your better choice."

So what kind of audio files does the ipod nano actually play? I always thought it was an mp3 player.

Personally I don't have a need for itunes. All I want is a mp3 player that holds alot of songs and allows me to organize them like an ipod. Also to just connect via usb port and I can add songs to it from there with my computer, with windows by the way.

Oh and a color screen, which is why I was going towards a nano too. I think I will look into an iriver though.
ATPM Staff · August 24, 2006 - 18:01 EST #62
David - all iPod models will play MP3 audio files in addition to the AAC format preferred by iTunes and offered by the iTunes Music Store, AIFF files, Apple Lossless Format files, and more. But to use an iPod, you must use iTunes, as well, to put music onto the iPod. Even if you only have MP3s, iTunes must be used to sync the songs.
Michael Faessen · August 26, 2006 - 23:29 EST #63
Is there a way to listen to videos on the ipod nano without seeing them? I know the nano does not support video but I am only interested in the audio part.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · August 27, 2006 - 02:40 EST #64
Michael - this is a good question. This review's author isn't always accessible any longer, and I haven't immediately contacted another nano owner.

Here's my thoughts.

On one hand, if they go from your iTunes library into the nano, then yes, you should be able to play just the audio.

However, it may be entirely possible that iTunes recognizes the nano when you synchronize and, knowing nanos don't support video, iTunes might just skip them.

But, someone pointed out to me that Quicktime can open those videos and you can export them as MP3s or AACs.

Unfortunately, I answered by saying you have to have Quicktime Pro to do that. At least I'm fairly sure you do.

That's all I can say for the moment. If I learn more, I'll return and post again.
Soul · September 15, 2006 - 13:44 EST #65
So how acan I get the Nano to work on my car?

Also... the new 4 ipod Nanos with the 24hr on time with the diff colors. Does that come in BLACK?

NOTE: I know the 8GB does,,,
ATPM Staff · September 15, 2006 - 14:03 EST #66
Soul - are you saying your nano won't turn on when you get in your car? :-p

Seriously, to play your iPod through your car radio, you either need a cassette adapter, an FM transmitter, or a radio with an auxiliary input. Just search Google or store.apple.com and you should easily find what you need.

Sorry, I can't tell you why, but Apple decided that the 2GB version only comes in silver, the 8GB only comes in black, and the 4GB comes in a choice of silver, blue, green, or pink—but not black.
mary · September 23, 2006 - 14:55 EST #67
my 2gb nano recently got stolen and i want a new one. I still have my old case from last year and i was wondering if the old nano cases will fit on the new ones. I am also wondering which colours the 1gb comes in.. or all the different sizes for that matter
ATPM Staff · September 23, 2006 - 18:16 EST #68
Mary - the second generation nanos are practically identical in size to the originals which are about 100th of an inch thicker. The same case should be fine.

Colors—we just answered that question in the previous comment to your own and see no reason to repeat. Please look above.
Breanna · October 4, 2006 - 16:51 EST #69
I have one question. Lets just say my first generation ipod breaks. Im still under the warranty. So do I get a second generation ipod? Or still the first generation one..
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · October 4, 2006 - 17:33 EST #70
Breanna - how about let's just say instead that you have a first generation nano and the second generation models came out shortly after, and now you're miffed because you want the newer one. Am I right? Maybe best not to answer that. ;-)

In any case, the answer is most likely that you would not get a second generation replacement. Even though you really cannot easily buy a 1G nano any longer, Apple is certain to have a small stock of them for the purpose of warranty replacements.
tim Jablonski · October 16, 2006 - 03:26 EST #71
Can I use the power adaptor that came with my old ipod mini recharge the ipod nano? Thanks.
ATPM Staff · October 16, 2006 - 10:02 EST #72
Tim - yes, you can. The FireWire cable and an A/C adapter from the older iPods will still charge the new ones. But, as you probably know, the USB cable must be used for synchronizing all the latest iPods. The FireWire cable can no longer be used to sync 5G iPods, nanos, and shuffles.
Omar Martin · October 22, 2006 - 14:24 EST #73
(i-pod video)Not too sure if this happens to anyone but me. Well my ipod battery was about to die, so i connected it to my usb to charge. Next thing noticed was that everything had shrunk. You know when it says do not disconnect, it's usually big and red i, well it had shrunk about 50%.Next thing i know, i eject ipod, and it said to restore, "connect ipod to USB" How the heck did that happen, did it reformat oby it's self. Has this happened to anyone before. It's happened about 3 times to me, but i want it to stop
ATPM Staff · October 22, 2006 - 21:35 EST #74
Omar - sounds defective. Take it back to Apple.
Omar Martin · October 22, 2006 - 23:31 EST #75
Thanks for the reply, but it's only happened once on this i-pod so far. I use to have the U2 edition, and it did it 2 times. Do you still think could be some kind of defect?Plus if i took it back to apple wouldn't they try to charge me a grip, i've had the i-pod for about a year.
ATPM Staff · October 23, 2006 - 00:37 EST #76
Omar - if it's less than a year old, or if you bought the extended warranty and you're still inside that term, then Apple will not charge you anything if you can demonstrate the problem. Take pictures of it so you can show them. (I'm assuming possibly you can visit an Apple retail store.)

You were not clear in your first comment that the "3 times" was only once with your current iPod and twice with the prior one. I can't imagine how anything other than a faulty iPod would cause the display screen to visually shrink. It's totally not normal and I have no doubt that it's something Apple should be involved with solving.
WAQAR AYAZ · October 23, 2006 - 03:08 EST #77
hi...im getin a nano n i juz wanted to ask...which accesories shud i get with it?...shud i buy the charger as ppl day it takes long to charge via usb....help me plzz!!!! ...mail me any1...plz....thnx....
ATPM Staff · October 23, 2006 - 08:13 EST #78
Waqar - no one person can properly advise another person what accessories to buy. You should get the accessories that you think will be of benefit to you. The same accessories that benefit me may be of absolutely no use to you, and vice versa. But you certainly have plenty of choices: various cases, FM radio tuners, microphone voice recorders, ad infinitum. Here's a good place to look up accessories by category. Scroll down to the "Complete Accessories Guide" section.

A/C charger—in my experience, the time to charge an iPod is identical whether you attach it to the USB (or previously the FireWire) port or use an A/C adapter. It's simply a question of whether you want to be able to charge it without carrying your computer with you. I still have the FireWire-based charger that came with my 3G iPod (you can no longer sync with FireWire, but you can still use the cable to charge the latest iPods). However, I don't often use that charger any more because my iPod generally stays charged during a sync or while it's attached in my car via a cigarette lighter adapter. So I'd say that you only need the A/C adapter if you plan on taking your iPod on multi-day trips and not taking your laptop with you.
omar · October 23, 2006 - 15:28 EST #79
What also happened was that it erased all my music, it pretty much reformated the hard drive. So i'm guessing not one has ever had this problem. Does anyone know of any programs that would let you rip music off your i-pod on to your mac?
ATPM Staff · October 23, 2006 - 16:21 EST #80
Omar - spend just a few minutes of searching on versiontracker.com and macupdate.com and you'll find utilities for copying music from an iPod back to your computer.
WAQAR AYAZ · October 23, 2006 - 16:33 EST #81
i went to a shop to buy the nano and i asked bout the batery thingy...and he said tht there is a new series of nano which has increased batry life time...iz tht ture??? and he sayz tht it can play like 20 hourz instead of the old nano which playz 14 hourz...can help me with tht?...iz tht ture?...shud i buy the one heZ tolkin bout...????

....and yea he said tht it wz the silver edition ..the 2gb one....can u tell me the difference in the 2gb black n 2gb silver???...which one iz beter to buy...need help....thnxxxxxxx............and yea one more thing....which will b the best lather caser to buy for it???....help!!!!
ATPM Staff · October 23, 2006 - 16:48 EST #82
Waqar - the shop is correct. The newer second generation iPod nanos do have a bit longer battery life.

As for the color choices, that was already discussed in earlier comments on this page. 2GB only comes in silver. 8GB only comes in black. 4GB is available in all colors except black.

We can't advise you on a leather case. The ideal case is usually different for everyone. You need to look at them and decide which best suits your needs. Take me, for example. I don't even want a leather case for my iPod video. I am happy with my neoprene-padded Marware Sportsuit case.
waqar · October 27, 2006 - 16:15 EST #83
hello...I want to know...which will be the best head phone for my new nano.
Tom Bridge · October 27, 2006 - 16:25 EST #84
I recommend the Bose QuietComfort Headphones, though some will prefer Sennheiser DJ headphones. Both have a full and rich bottom end.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · October 27, 2006 - 17:06 EST #85
Waqar - Tom's right. I love my QuietComfort 2 cans. But they are, admittedly, quite expensive. There's also the problem that everyone thinks differently about what "good" headphones are. While Tom and I like the Bose, there are others on ATPM staff who don't like Bose at all.

The best thing you can do is try some for yourself. Obviously this is difficult for in-ear headphones since once you use them, they're "contaminated" so to speak. :-) But, any in-ear headphones that don't cost more than a couple of ten bucks aren't, in my opinion, "good" headphones anyway.
waqar · October 27, 2006 - 17:47 EST #86
bose headphones...hmm..pretty expensive....but how about Apple M9394G/A iPod Earbud Headphones....wud they give gud quality and bass...just need help in thiz...!!!thanks
anonymous · October 27, 2006 - 17:51 EST #87
The Buds you reference here, Waqar, are the stock apple buds that come with your iPod. There's a set that go inside your ear, but I don't think they offer the bass that your hip-hop-lovin' self might really want. Get a set of DJ cans for your iPod and you'll be much happier. Most earbuds won't have the depth and breadth of response you're looking for.

Also, we're a Mac site, not an audiophile site. Be sure to check out The Google for more info on headphones and better recommendations. Remember, research is your friend.
waqar · October 28, 2006 - 09:05 EST #88
Are there specific headphones for ipods?...cant the pc headphones work in it...i have pc headphones...can those work in my ipod?...help...thanks
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · October 28, 2006 - 14:20 EST #89
Waqar - any headphones with a standard 3.5mm plug(otherwise known somewhat inaccurately as 1/8th inch) plug should do fine—even if it has a 1/4 inch jack and you use a 1/4 inch to 3.5mm adapter. In other words, if the headphones work fine in your regular portable tape and CD players, it will work with the iPod.
JF · November 13, 2006 - 21:56 EST #90
I just bought a Nano 8gb to replace my Mini 4GB. I hav been using sennheiser earphones for the Mini, and they sound great.

However, the Senneisers in the Nano cause a problem. The auto-pause feature that kicks in when you pull the jack out of the nano seems to be hypersensitive - any bit of motion, even a slight turn or bit of pressure, causes the auto-pause to kick in.

The buds that came with the nano seem to have a jack that fits more snugly than the Sennheisers, but I never had any problem with the Mini.

Any suggestions? This is frustrating.
ryan nelson · November 17, 2006 - 08:03 EST #91
i think the ipod nano is fabulose i use it everywere that for making it
Alex · November 17, 2006 - 14:41 EST #92
I bought my mom a first generation 1gig Nano for Christmas yesterday. Total cost, $50. Get a first generation now and try it out for yourself! Stores are trying to cycle them out of their inventory to make shelf space for the new colorful Nanos so you can probably get one at an affordable price.
Amber · November 28, 2006 - 01:29 EST #93
i was wondering if you dropped an ipod nano if it would survive or it would break.
Tom · November 28, 2006 - 02:07 EST #94
Depends on how high Amber. Two feet? Probably okay. Ten feet? Maybe. One hundred feet into a burning tarpit? Not so much.

But that same advice applies to numerous appliances, electrical and non electrical.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · November 28, 2006 - 09:07 EST #95
Amber - Ars Technica had a write-up from someone who intentionally tried to "break" a nano and it survived a lot more than you would think.
Christian Papadopoulos · November 30, 2006 - 04:22 EST #96
I was considering purchasing an iPod Nano for Christmas (1st. Generation), but I was wandering if anyone knew why the iPod's die out quicker than most other MP3 players and if the iPod Nano is better than the Sandisk Sansa E250 if any of you have one, Thanks.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · November 30, 2006 - 11:53 EST #97
Christian - you're making a generalization based on hearsay and not on fact. There's no proof—yet—that iPods die out faster than other players. I have a 3rd Generation iPod that's still doing fine and I'm planning to give it to someone. I know of people with 1st Generation iPods who are still using them.

As for which is better, you may receive comments from other readers here with their opinion, but you probably won't find a definitive answer. This page reviewed the iPod nano. Its purpose was to cover the nano—not compare it to the Sansa. You have to define what you mean by "better." If "better" 100% means "cheaper" then the answer is probably that the Sansa is better. But "better" doesn't equal "cheaper." You must look at the features of both and decide which has a bigger list of features you want.
Christian Papadopoulos · December 1, 2006 - 20:38 EST #98
I was just wandering if anyone out their knew if there were any differences between the first generation and second generation iPod Nano's besides the use of Alluminium to design the second generation Nano, Thank You
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · December 1, 2006 - 20:45 EST #99
Christian - discover the power of Google and Wikipedia. :-)

Head to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPod_nano and look in the section titled "Second Generation" and it lists the differences.
Tiago · December 26, 2006 - 19:07 EST #100
My parents gave me an Ipod this christmas and that is amazing
Is an Ipod 4 gb nano second generation
It's possible put games on it?
Where can I legally buy the games without going to Itunes?
One guy said that is possible put small videoclips on it
How if possible?
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · December 27, 2006 - 04:15 EST #101
Tiago - the games for sale on iTunes are not compatible with the nano—only the 5th generation iPod video for now. But this probably doesn't matter to you since you don't want to get them from iTunes.

The best advice I have for finding other games that you can put on the nano is to head to Google and search for "ipod nano games" and see what comes up.

Please consider the courtesy of reading about products you buy or are given before asking questions in forums like this. You'd have learned that standard video is not supported on the nano (again, only the full size iPod video).
Scott · January 4, 2007 - 21:59 EST #102
how many charges does it take to wear out the battery in the nano?

I know it depends on how much you use it ect. but assuming you drain the battery each time... Aprox.
ATPM Staff · January 5, 2007 - 00:18 EST #103
Scott - I don't think there's anyone here who can properly answer that question, because 1) I doubt anyone knows for sure, and 2) it'll vary so much. It depends on more things than just draining the battery every time. What kind of temperature is it usually operated in? What's the state of the power source it's plugged into while charging (high, normal, or low voltage). etc.

I'm not asking you to answer these questions...they're hypothetical.

Apple would probably want to tell you it'll never wear out. Joe Blow down the street who claims his died after only a few months might tell you 50 times. So I don't think it's possible to answer your question.
Connie · January 23, 2007 - 16:14 EST #104
I have a 4G nano. I would like to use a USB car charger. Does it have to be Apple's or will a generic work? Any one out there know the voltage specs for this device?
ATPM Staff · January 23, 2007 - 16:27 EST #105
Connie - actually, Apple itself I don't believe makes a car charger. The ones you find on their store web site are made by other vendors such as Griffin Technology or Belkin.

Every iPod from the first generation all the way to current have the same A/C adapter requirements, so as long as a charger indicates that it is made for iPods, you'll be good. The obvious exception is the iPod shuffle which doesn't use the same dock connector that the nano and full size iPods use.
Melissa · January 27, 2007 - 13:19 EST #106
I recently returned my pink 4 GB ipod nano because it was too much. There was no way I could put on 1000 songs. So I would like to buy the 2GB, but it ONLY comes in silver. Correct? Is there any way to get a red 2 GB??
Melissa · January 27, 2007 - 13:57 EST #107
Is it true that if you've had an ipod for a while, when the batteries die, there is NO way to replace them???...AT ALL???????? Can't you give it to the ipod store so they replace it or something?????
ATPM Staff · January 28, 2007 - 01:53 EST #108
Melissa - You're correct. 2GB nano is only available in silver—from Apple. But there are places that will professionally paint your iPod, or you can simply buy a new 2GB from them that has already been painted.

http://www.colorwarepc.com/products/select_nano.aspx

While any battery for electronics won't last forever, it's a little misleading to say that iPod batteries just up and die on you. Sure, they'll gradually decrease in ability to hold as long of a charge, but it's not common that they just die. While I do have a 5G iPod, my old 3G still holds at least 3/4 of it's original charge duration. You'll get plenty of use out of a nano before you'll notice less capacity out of the battery.

http://www.apple.com/batteries/ipods.html

Yes, they can be changed. Apple will do it (or possibly replace your iPod) for $59, plus $6.95 shipping. But they may not do it if it's a custom painted one as mentioned above.

But it's possible to get it done (or do it yourself) for cheaper. For info about that, head over to ilounge.com and search there.
sarah shimmer · January 31, 2007 - 15:49 EST #109
ok im really confused, does the ipod nano (2GB) not have a charger that u can plug into the wall? why? i'm only gonna buy it if it has a charger that u can stick in the wall! is the 4GB like that too? do we have to charge it using a computer? if yes: aww man
ATPM Staff · January 31, 2007 - 17:49 EST #110
Sarah - None of the current line-up of iPods include an A/C wall charger. You can grumble about that all you like, but the fact is, Apple (in my opinion) wisely decided that the majority of people using iPods only need to charge it when they sync it to their computer. By eliminating the A/C adapter, Apple was able to reduce the cost of all iPods a significant amount, which pleases many people who don't need an A/C adapter. Apple sells the charger separately for $30. Keep in mind that at the time the chargers were no longer bundled, iPods dropped in price by $50 or more.
sarah shimmer · February 1, 2007 - 02:32 EST #111
oh ok, but what i don't get is that my friend just bought an ipod today and i was there when she opened the box and there was a charger.. confused1!!?? help
(thanx for ur last suggestion it was helpful)
ATPM Staff · February 1, 2007 - 09:04 EST #112
Sarah - I can't speculate as to what was in your friend's box other than to ask what I shouldn't have to ask—are you sure it was brand-new and not someone else's boxing-up of a nano plus the addition of a separately purchased charger? I can quite positively assure you that Apple itself never bundled a charger or a dock with either the first or second generation nanos, nor with the 5G iPod video. They would never fit inside the box. The little iPod shuffle does come with its miniature dock, but it's just a dock—not a charger.
i women in distress · March 23, 2007 - 16:16 EST #113
can u have more than one i pod to a computer????
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · March 23, 2007 - 17:22 EST #114
We know that you can sync iTunes to different iPods, but if you're asking whether you can attach more than one iPod at the same time, I'm really not sure how iTunes will behave. Both would most likely show up as new hard drive volumes on your computer (if you enabled that option). I'd bet there's no harm in doing it, firing up iTunes, and seeing what happens.
Justin · March 27, 2007 - 19:06 EST #115
The 2g ipod nano stinks!
You should bring the old one back but with the brighter screen and better memory!
Keep it up, Apple!
Doing a great job!

-Justin
Charlene Braden · May 8, 2007 - 13:45 EST #116
Weird you guys said that you can't get a black nano that is 4 GB? I just got one from apple, I am a cheapskate so I purchased a refurbished one. Also, was shopping at ebay watching auctions and the refurbished is cheaper and has a limited one year warrantee. For people like me, just thought you'd want to know and consider refurbished? Can't hardly wait til I get it!
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · May 8, 2007 - 14:12 EST #117
Charlene - Okay, something of an update from what was said earlier. It's the current second-generation iPod nanos which you can't get in black at the 4GB size. The first-generation nanos did, indeed, come in black at 4GB.
Alex Scott · May 19, 2007 - 12:19 EST #118
Hi i just bought an ipod nano 4gb did i make the right decision because reading down the page it seems a lot of people are unhappy with them!
ps.
will a screen protector stop the scratching if so how do you use it? is it temperary?thanks,
Alex
Mrs Baker · June 5, 2007 - 13:40 EST #119
Alex, if your nano is anything like mine you'll be happy with it for 18mths and then extremely upset when the battery no longer re-charges and your nano is next to useless!

If anyone has any contact details for Apple in the UK please let me know. Am I expecting too much for my nano to work for more than 18mths? I feel robbed!
Ashley · July 12, 2007 - 23:01 EST #120
Hi I heard that you can not purchase 1GB ipod shuffle. I heard its discontinued is that true? Also if its not discontinued how many songs does it hold? Another question I have is how many songs does the new ipod shuffle hold? Thank you for your time.
ATPM Staff · July 13, 2007 - 00:21 EST #121
Ashley - I'm somehow betting you meant to ask about the 1G (as in first generation) shuffle and not a 1GB (as in one gigabyte) shuffle because the new/current shuffle does have a capacity of 1GB.

You may get lucky in finding a first generation shuffle at third party vendors or on eBay, but Apple doesn't sell them any more—only the second generation.

Why don't you head on over the Apple's site which will answer your questions about the product specs:

http://www.apple.com/ipodshuffle/specs.html
Britney · July 13, 2007 - 20:20 EST #122
Hi, I've been reading reviews and researching both the Ipod Video and the nano for quite some time. At first, I was convinced on getting the 30gb ipod video, though now I'm not so sure. Does dial-up internet work with the video ipod? I know that itunes would take quite a bit of time to download.
Also, how would downloading movies from itunes work? Would a media player be involved in the process at all?

I'm not sure whether i should get the 4gb nano to excersise with, because it seems more portable, or the 30gb video because it holds 6,500 more songs and it plays videos...? please help! thanks
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · July 13, 2007 - 21:07 EST #123
Britney - since no iPod has any internet capability, the literal answer to your question is "no."

But we both know that isn't what you meant, so that means I have to translate your question. What you meant to ask is whether or not you can download movies and songs from the iTunes store from a dialup connection.

Apple says that broadband speeds are required. I'm not sure whether iTunes specifically detects the type of connection and completely disallows you to download music if you only have dialup. But on an average of 3-5 megabytes per song, downloading an entire album—just one album—would probably take all night, and I don't even care to think of how many days it would take to download video files that are longer than just a few seconds.

As for your second question, iTunes *is* the media player, in addition to a 5G video iPod.

As for which iPod to get: we can't help. You already answered for yourself what the benefits are of the nano versus the 5G video. You have to decide which you want.
Bryan crane · July 17, 2007 - 21:08 EST #124
my nano died today and i only had it for 5 months it wont charge or anything altho i got the 30 gig video i still wont to use my nano please help me :(:(
ATPM Staff · July 17, 2007 - 21:37 EST #125
Bryan - 1-800-SOS-APPL
Sisq0 · August 3, 2007 - 21:21 EST #126
Hi,
excuse me if the question sound silly, but I'll have to ask it.
How can i know if the Nano is first or second generation? Is there a sign or some kind of visual difference between 1g and 2g... besides the brighter display and the battery?

Thanks in advance.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · August 3, 2007 - 22:16 EST #127
Sisq0 - You're right. Silly question. :-)

Yes, there's a huge visual difference. 1G nanos are black or white on the front and silver/mirror-like on the back.

2G nanos come in five difference colors which wrap all the way around the front and back with no mirror-like surface on the back.
Sisq0 · August 4, 2007 - 04:40 EST #128
Thanks.
I'm asking, cause here's a guy that sells ipod nano 4gb black, and as i read your and some other articles there ISN'T black nano 4gb (only 8) so i'm a little confused...
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · August 5, 2007 - 08:16 EST #129
Sisq0 - the first generation nano *was* sold in either 1, 2, or 4 gigabytes in your choice of white or black. So that's the black 4GB the "guy" must be selling.

For the current 2G nanos, the 8GB model is the only one that comes in black—and no other colors. Silver only in the 2GB model, and all colors except black in the 4GB model.

For any further questions about the second generation nano, please consult Apple's site: http://www.apple.com/ipodnano/specs.html
Alex Scott · August 10, 2007 - 08:49 EST #130
Hi again i Have just put a new album on to my second gen Ipod Nano. the album was Fallen By Evanescence. However on my ipod it has put the album down as two separate albums half of the songs on one of them and the rest on the other is their a way to get them all into one i have put other albums on and they are all just put into one album? i have checked that the album name is spelt correctly and it is please can you help me
thanks.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · August 10, 2007 - 14:20 EST #131
Alex - I once thought an Album name was spelled correctly, but some tracks had something like one extra space that made iTunes think it was a different album. Try selecting all the tracks, bringing up the Get Info window, then typing the Album name for them all in one swoop.

If that doesn't do it, also check the track and disc number section. You'll want to do this for individual tracks at a time and not all at once. Make sure they're all reporting disc 1 of 1 and that the track count contains the total number of tracks in the info for every song, and that the track number field is properly sequential.

If it's still no good, delete all the tracks and try re-ripping them.

If it's still no good, you should head over to a better iPod support forum such as iLounge.com
andrea · September 9, 2007 - 15:11 EST #132
As some people may have noticed apple has just resently the 3rd generation of iPod nanos. I ordered one today and it should be in around wenesday.Can anyone tell me what to expect from this new generation?
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · September 9, 2007 - 17:16 EST #133
Andrea - why not simply head to Apple's page about the nanos and let the product speak for itself?
chris coly · September 10, 2007 - 20:36 EST #134
i just bought an ipod nano. ive plugged it in for about 6 hours and it still says "do not disconect" . i took ur advice and ejected it and quickly plugged it back in but it still says the same thing. what do i do?
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · September 10, 2007 - 20:45 EST #135
Chris - if disk mode is enabled, it will say "do not disconnect" indefinitely. To turn the message off, the iPod needs to be unmounted from your computer. On a Macintosh, the iPod icon should be visible on your desktop and dragging it to the trash can will eject it. In Windows, it should be showing up under My Computer as one of your drive letters and you can right-click it and select the eject option. Or, in both Mac OS X and Windows, there should be an eject button next to the iPod in the iTunes window. After ejecting, the "do not disconnect" message should go away within about 15 seconds or less.
Mrs Baker · September 18, 2007 - 14:28 EST #136
Lee, as you seem to be able to provide answers to most other people's questions / queries, any chance you can answer mine (see entry dated 05/06/07)?
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · September 18, 2007 - 19:18 EST #137
Mrs Baker - http://www.apple.com/uk/support/
Enrique Benavides · September 21, 2007 - 16:59 EST #138
I usually play my dance songs on my Ipod Nano at the gym in the shuffle format. At times, the Ipod is taking very long to find a song to play. I'm assuming it has played most of the dance songs and can't seem to find a new dance song to play. Is this normal? Do I need to reset at this point? Please advise and thanks in advance.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · September 21, 2007 - 18:04 EST #139
Enrique - doesn't sound normal. Try using iTunes to reinitialize it, then resync it.
Mrs Baker · September 24, 2007 - 15:25 EST #140
Lee, it would seem you're not a man of many helpful words on this occasion! I'd already looked there with no joy, hence me asking the question.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · September 24, 2007 - 16:47 EST #141
Mrs Baker - Apple is rather notorious for not offering easy means of contact. It *is* available, but is generally geared toward those whose products are still under warranty.

But I digress, you clearly did not look at the web link I provided closely enough, because right there in the box on the top left side, the third header reads "Support Resources" and you'll find a "Contact Support" link directly beneath that.
Jack Stevens · November 23, 2007 - 12:48 EST #142
I just bought the newly released ipod nano(the one with video capabilities) and I'm just wondering how long do i need to charge it(first time charging it)in order for it to last long. Or does this not matter and just eject/disconnect when it says it is done?
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · November 23, 2007 - 16:44 EST #143
Jack - till it says done is usually fine, but if you want to really be certain, just put it on when you go to bed and let it trickle charge overnight.
Addison · December 5, 2007 - 23:06 EST #144
hey question anyone, im borrowing my cousins 4gb ipod since he got the 30gb, used from ebay, but i was wondering if its possible to put games onto the 4gb nano.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · December 6, 2007 - 00:46 EST #145
Addison - only the 3rd generation nano (the new stubby/fat model released this year) supports games sold on iTunes. The prior nanos do not. Also note that some of the older games written for the 5th generation iPod may not work on the 3rd generation nano.
Addison · December 6, 2007 - 09:08 EST #146
yeah, but i have a hard time with all these different generations of ipods n stuff, llike which ones which n stuff, if anyone knows what i mean, thanks.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · December 6, 2007 - 10:02 EST #147
Addison - about half-way down this wikipedia page is a grid that outlines all the current and past iPod models.
HARMZ TOFFEE · December 16, 2007 - 17:23 EST #148
HEY THERE:-)

How long does the apple ipod nano 3rd generation last??

in hours? battery life-

and in years? overall

tHnX

PeAcE OwT
Addison · December 16, 2007 - 22:29 EST #149
so sorry to say but i dont own an ipod, im just borrowing one since right because im working at red robin with sucky pay n car stuff n gas to pay for, so because of all that i cant afford one, so to be dead serious i wish i could help u out but i hardly know anything about one, since its easy to use thats why im borrowing one
David Paoli · December 21, 2007 - 18:23 EST #150
The 3rd generations nanos have 24 hours battery life, they can hold 1000 songs, 3500 photos and have up to 4 hours of video.
But i dont know in years.

And do you think that the 3rd generation nanos are better than the second
thx
Matt Vargas · December 27, 2007 - 20:03 EST #151
I am contemplating a ipod 4gb nano for 149.99 but the guy at bestbuy said that the battery will need to be replaced after 2 years at the cost of 100 dollars for the replacement battery.....what can you tell me about this....is it true? Ive been looking all over this site to answer my question before I wrote this message but I must have over looked my answer unfortunately.
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · December 27, 2007 - 22:59 EST #152
Matt - we here at ATPM are not necessarily iPod experts and can't give you an end-all answer. However, I can personally tell you that anyone who suggests that an iPod battery will unequivocally die in exactly two years is a moron.

Admittedly, some iPod batteries have gotten to a point where they cannot hold a charge for a reasonable amount of time, but there's no magic number for how long before this happens. Likewise, it is false that *every* iPod battery will fail in two years. For example, I have an old 3rd generation iPod bought in April 2003 which worked perfectly for more than three years. And I believe it would still work today if it weren't for the fact that when I got my 5G iPod, I left the old 3G sitting uncharged for nearly a year, which may have caused the battery to no longer be able to charge. I also know of someone still using a first generation iPod. In full disclosure, its battery barely lasts an hour—but it still works and it's more than six years old.

No one can legitimately tell you that iPod batteries will last 10 years or more—they probably won't. You must also consider the fact that by the time the battery reaches a stage that you begin to notice it doesn't hold a charge as long as it used to, you might have your sights set on Apple's latest and greatest iPod. :-p

But in all seriousness, the stories you may have heard about the batteries not lasting very long aren't outrageously common. They are the exception—not the norm. Also remember that ALL batteries of this type only have a certain lifespan. So it doesn't matter if you buy an iPod, a Zen, a Zune, or whatever—they battery will not last forever. But odds are, it'll last more than two years.

Finally, maybe Best Buy wants to bilk you for $100 to replace an iPod battery, but should you need a new one, sending it directly to Apple can get you a new one for $59, plus $6.95 shipping. Or, even better, search around the Internet a bit and you'll find other sources that do it far cheaper. OWC has a really good service.

Again, though, it's very likely that you will not need to use such a service in as little as two years.
Matt Vargas · December 27, 2007 - 23:21 EST #153
Thank you greatly. You answer is concise and exactly what I have been attempting to research.
HARMZ TOFFEE · January 12, 2008 - 21:10 EST #154
Thankyou Addison and David Paoli and Lee Bennet!!

Very helpful!!

All of you have fulfiled my curiousity!!

Thankyou very very much!

PeAcE OwT!
Chris Harris · January 24, 2008 - 01:40 EST #155
To the Posters...

Not trying to be rude, but you folks sure don't read much before you post.

To the ATPM staff...

You folks sure do a great job of thinly veiling your frustration, and when a real question is asked, you get the answer out there. Fantastic job!!! A most sincere thank you for all the info.
egi-cool@hotmail.com · February 5, 2008 - 10:27 EST #156
ipod
TaranQ · March 26, 2008 - 14:13 EST #157
I am wondering how can I tell my nano 3rd gen is charging? No kind of animated icon to tell charging is in progress. Just the battery symbol with that lightning symbol? or is that the charging icon? confusing :(.
Why not a plain simple animated icon of a battery being filled....????
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · March 26, 2008 - 14:48 EST #158
TaranQ - This page should be of some help: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=60970
TaranQ · March 26, 2008 - 15:11 EST #159
Well ... not really. That was as I would Expect it to be. My icon is just black/white without any kind of (green)animation so its really confusing to tell wether it is actually charging ....
But .... just now I found it! eject from Itnes and turn ipod to sleep ..... voila! the nice big display size battery icon nicelly animated!
But still confusing why it doesn't for example switch to this (big) icon for a second whenever charging first starts.
Jan Rodriguez · May 13, 2008 - 22:09 EST #160
TaranQ- when your ipod is charging the battery logo on the top right corner of your ipod will have a "lightning bolt" in it which means that it is charging.

But i do have i question...i have the 3G ipod nano and my brother said that i should let the battery die for the first time so that i can fully use the battery..is that true? do i have to let the battery die when it is new?
jesse m · June 20, 2008 - 04:04 EST #161
J.R. Since Li-ion batteries can be charged when they are not completely dead, most people tend to charge the battery whenever. However, it is reccomended that you charge the battery when it is or is close to being dead to ensure that it reaches maximum potential
kevin sweet · June 30, 2008 - 09:53 EST #162
i was wondering if the ipod nano 3rd generation that holds 4 gigabytes had good battery life and if so how good. also i was wondering if in any way you could go on lime wire and get music from there to your ipod.
ATPM Staff · June 30, 2008 - 10:55 EST #163
Kevin - Apple's literature states that the iPod nano is capable of 24 hours of music playback or 5 hours of video playback. You must remember, thought, that these numbers represent the most ideal scenario—in other words, playing through a playlist, not on shuffle, average volume, not skipping tracks, etc. All these things take a tiny hit on overall battery life. In more traditional use, it should hold a charge longer than your waking hours of a day.

As for Limewire, as long as the file you obtain is one that is supported by the iPod (such as AAC or MP3), then it should work. Windows Media files will not play on an iPod, but iTunes can usually convert them to AAC or MP3.

Having said that, note that ATPM does not advise or condone the act of illegally downloading copyrighted music that is shared on peer-to-peer networks. If an artist is using Limewire to legally give away their music, then more power to you. As for any others, we can only say, don't steal music.
jess · December 28, 2008 - 07:28 EST #164
hay i just got a ipod nano (4th generation) for xmas and as you stated it does not come with a cd for installation.
i have tired to instal itunes from the net as am supposed to but it wont work.
the first time i tried it took 4 hours and i have broadband!!! this is unusual for my comp which works pretty fast.
the download completes but my comp just wont let me open the file (it doesnt matter if i run it or save it.) i click on the icon and just nothing happens.
i am really hoping that someone can help me coz its quite frustrating.
Eduardo mesquita · January 4, 2009 - 08:56 EST #165
Hi,My friend give to me the ipod 4gb namo and I put for charge all night and put the music but in the morning don't let me get insede the screen is just saying DO not desconnect, but is full charge.thanks
ATPM Staff · January 5, 2009 - 03:46 EST #166
Eduardo - you just need to eject the iPod from your computer. Generally you can do so by clicking the eject circle next to the iPod's icon in the left side of iTunes. You can also eject it from a Finder window (Mac) or Explorer window (PC). After ejecting, give it a few seconds and the "do not disconnect" message will go away.

And, the most important step of all, have a look at the documentation for the iPod—this information is covered in the user guide.
luis hernandez · February 18, 2009 - 23:35 EST #167
hi i have a problem my ipod nano 4g wont work with my car stereo its a sony xplod it comes with the ipod cable .my old ipod nano works perfectly maybe cuz of the cable .i feel that the cable its the problem please advise.thank you.luis
ATPM Staff · February 19, 2009 - 00:25 EST #168
Luis - If you feel the cable is the problem, haven't you simply tried a different cable?
luis hernandez · February 19, 2009 - 16:36 EST #169
thanks for answerin but i cant try another cable theres no way for me to do that
ATPM Staff · February 19, 2009 - 18:18 EST #170
Luis - our site attempts to assist with issues when possible, but when it comes to hardware such as iPods, there's generally not much we can do. You might try visiting the Help area of iLounge.com at http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/help/ - Or, if you live near an Apple retail store, they can be of help, but you will want to sign in for an appointment first. Pick a store from http://www.apple.com/retail/storelist/ and then click the "Reserve" link under the Genius Bar icon to set an appointment.
Nayuki · July 26, 2009 - 18:45 EST #171
Hi, My cousin bought a new ipod and gave me his old ipod nano, he lost everything but the ipod itself...do they sell the USB and cable stuff in stores, if so do you know what the prices are? thanks
Lee Bennett (ATPM Staff) · July 26, 2009 - 19:37 EST #172
Nayuki - an official Apple cable that matches what would have been included with the iPod is $20 but you can look elsewhere, such as Amazon, and find equivalent cables far far cheaper. Just take care to watch the vendor information. Some cables may only be priced at 30 or 40 cents, but a few vendors will charge many dollars for shipping.
Aaron Lai · October 16, 2009 - 06:12 EST #173
Now I'm reading all your comments while listening to the built in radio on my ipod nano 5g.....
geenie · December 7, 2009 - 05:57 EST #174
hi, i have a 3rd gen nano 4gb about 2 years old which was working perfectly until yesterday.It appears to be playing (according to the arrow) but no sound (or timeline of mins/seconds unless u press hard outside the pinwheel on the right) and yes is fully charged (also now freezes).Can any1 tell me is this fixable or is my nano on the way to apple heaven???
smithyb · February 10, 2010 - 16:06 EST #175
got a ipod nano,which has a faulty battery,how can i establish which gen it is?
ATPM Staff · February 10, 2010 - 23:19 EST #176
Smithyb - this page should help you: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1353

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