How to Play an iPod Touch Over Wireless Speakers With AirPort Express

by Stephen Byron Cooper
Connect your iPod to wireless speakers so more people can listen.

Connect your iPod to wireless speakers so more people can listen.

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AirPort Express is a wireless product of Apple Computers. It connects to a set of speakers, enabling them to receive music wirelessly. The ability to play iPod Touch music through AirPort Express only became available with the release of the iOS 4.2 operating system. This OS is compatible with all versions of iPod Touch from the second generation on, according to Apple.

Step 1

Connect your iPod Touch to a Mac or PC with an Internet connection. The iPod will alert you if any updates are available, including the iOS 4.2 upgrade if you haven't already upgraded. The update is free and the iTunes application manages the upgrade process.

Step 2

Plug in the AirPort Express box to an electrical outlet near your stereo. Powered speakers also will work with the AirPort Express. If the speakers are not powered, they will need to be connected to an amplifier. In this case, connect the AirPort Express box to the "Aux Input" on the stereo. Otherwise, plug the Airport Express cable directly into the "audio Input" speaker jack.

Step 3

Go to the iTunes app on the iPod Touch. You will notice an extra button in the music control panel that displays while a song is playing. The usual buttons are Rewind, Play/Pause and Fast Forward. A new button will appear for AirPlay; it is represented by a rectangular icon, pierced at the bottom by an up-arrow.

Step 4

Press the Airplay button. A list of available devices will pop up. The iPod and any other wireless-enabled devices in range such as Apple TV and AirPort Express will appear on this list. Select "AirPort Express." After a delay of a few seconds, the music from your iPod Touch will play through your AirPort Express speakers.

Warning

  • Despite Apple's assertion that AirPort Express works with all versions of iPod Touch from the second generation forward, some users have reported that it does not work with second-generation iPod Touch phones.

About the Author

Stephen Byron Cooper began writing professionally in 2010. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in computing from the University of Plymouth and a Master of Science degree in manufacturing systems from Kingston University. A career as a programmer gives him experience in technology. Cooper also has experience in hospitality management with knowledge in tourism.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images