How to Use a Mac-Formatted iPod on PC

by Mark Pool
Apple's iPod is a handy way to carry your music library with you.

Apple's iPod is a handy way to carry your music library with you.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Apple's iPod works with Windows- and Mac-based computers. It's possible to use an iPod in both Windows and Mac if the iPod is formatted in iTunes for Windows. A Mac reads iPods formatted by Windows or Mac, but a Windows computer can only use an iPod formatted for Windows. You must restore the iPod to factory settings to use a Mac formatted iPod on Windows. This will erase the contents of the iPod, including music, videos, contacts and all settings.

Step 1

Double-click on the iTunes shortcut on the desktop or in the "Start" menu. Plug your iPod into your computer using the USB cable that came with it.

Step 2

Click the iPod icon on the left side of the window. Click the "Restore" button in the "Summary" tab.

Step 3

Wait for the restore process to finish and follow the instructions provided by iTunes. Depending on your iPod model, iTunes will either tell you to unplug and charge the iPod, or leave it plugged in until instructed to finish the process.

Step 4

Enter a name and syncing preferences for the iPod when the iTunes Setup Assistant appears. The iPod is ready to synchronize with iTunes.

About the Author

Mark Pool has been a technical writer and translator specializing in information technology since 2001. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts in English from Columbia University, he went on to study the IT sector and receive technical certifications from Microsoft, Cisco and Red Hat.

Photo Credits

  • Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images