Backup

The iPod/iTunes combination generally transfers music only one way: From the computer to the iPod.

This is not for technical reasons (it's equally easy to transfer the data the other way), but more likely for licensing and digital rights management reasons. It's possible that one or more rights owners insisted on this as a condition of providing their content for the iTunes Music Store.

However, Apple has no obligation to prevent you from backing up your iPod, should you buy third-party software to do so. This software can also be handy for allowing you to synch your iPod at home and at work, though there is still no reliable solution known for this.

Some software you can buy that allows you to backup your iPod in case of disaster include:


 * iGadget from ipodsoft
 * Copypod from Wind solutions
 * Ipod Access from Findley Designs
 * Ipod->Folder, A freeware solution