Mon, 28 Jul 2008 Manage multiple iPods

If you’re the type who likes to hang on to your old iPod even though you’ve upgraded to the latest incarnation then it’s time to put it to good use. Lots of iPod devotees have one for all occasions, but having just two opens up a world of listening options.

A typical scenario is if you go to the gym or jogging. Rather than take your new iPod, which you can save for Sunday best, it’s a great idea to enlist the services of a previously redundant model. Of course, now the shuffle is only £32, you may even buy one especially for exercise. Simply create and manage unique playlists for each iPod.

1. Get in sync
Plug your primary iPod into iTunes and sync it as per normal. Check the ‘Sync music’ box and select ‘All songs and playlists’ to transfer the whole iTunes library to your iPod.

2. Switching players
Eject that iPod and attach your secondary iPod, making sure it has a different name to avoid confusion over which one is which – you can rename it by clicking the iPod on the left.

3. Personalised playlist
Go to ‘File’ and create a ‘New Smart Playlist’. Smart playlists allow you to create totally unique compilations that are perfect for a specific job.

4. Make the rules
You can specify all manner of variations, known as rules, so that only music matching the criteria is added to your smart playlist.

5. Search options
Add as many rules as you like by clicking the ‘+’ button on the right and then using the pop-up menu options to select criteria for your playlist.

6. Get ready to sync
Under the ‘Music’ tab, tick the ‘Sync music’ checkbox and press the ‘Selected playlists’ button. Then tick the new Smart playlist in the list.

7. Ready to go
Press the ‘Sync’ button in the bottom right hand corner of iTunes and this will add the selected smart playlist to your secondary iPod.

8. Finishing up
You now have a single dedicated playlist on your secondary iPod. Create new rules to add a wider range or larger selection of music.

9. Additional playlists
There are endless options for creating Smart playlists that match whatever job you have in mind for your secondary iPod – so play around with them to see how they can help you.