Confusion over new features in iPod Update 2004-07-15; Problems after update

Yesterday Apple has released the 2004-07-15 iPod updater. Although several enhancements -- including improved playback performance and support for the Apple Lossless Encoder -- were mentioned as newly available features that could be wrought on older iPod models with the update, it appears that the release is simply a rehash of previously available updates in a single package that is now standard across the iPod model line.

The new update offers no improvements for first generation iPod users since it includes iPod Software 1.4, which has already been released.

Likewise, the updater will not run on already up-to-date third generation iPods, simply giving the message "Software Version: 2.2 (up to date)".

The main improvement seems to be that the new updater is a one stop source for all iPods, since it supports all models.

Starting with iPod Updater 2004-04-28 and later, you can see which versions of iPod software gets installed for each respective iPod. To do this, open iPod Updater, and from the File menu, choose About iPod Updater.

Problems after update Some users found that the 2004-07-15 disabled their iPods, or made their music library inaccessible. Apple Discussions poster Florence Giles writes "I have a 40g, 3rd generation and a 10g, 2nd generation. I decided to check the 3G first. My iPod went completely blank and now will not show up on the desktop. I have restarted my computer, but it is dead. I hope someone has a solution. I do have Apple Care on this iPod, but not my first one and I certainly will not put it in for the updater. I hope someone has a solution. I tried to manual reset, but it didn't work.

Another poster, Dori Levy, writes "My entire library was wiped out after I installed the updater also. I am in the process of restoring all the music in my library. I have a 40G iPOD and am now making a backup library for my iTunes. It seems to be working OK now."

If you are having a similar problem, please drop us a line at late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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