Learn how to turn an old iPod into an external hard drive and expand your storage capabilities. Follow these simple steps to repurpose your existing device.
The first thing you should know is that using your iPod as an external hard drive is 100% efficient, but it has conditions. For example, to read or view the files you save you will have to use a PC; that is, you will not be able to see them on the same iPod. Why? Here is the answer.
How to turn an iPod into an external hard drive.
To convert an old iPod into an external hard drive, you can follow these steps. The process involves formatting the iPod and then using it as a regular external storage device. Here’s a guide presented in tabular form:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Backup iPod Data <br> Before starting, ensure all your data on the iPod is backed up. This process will erase all content on the iPod. |
| 2 | Reset to Factory Settings <br> Connect the iPod to a computer and use iTunes or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) to reset it to factory settings. This will erase all data on the iPod. |
| 3 | Enable Disk Use <br> After resetting, go to the device settings in iTunes or Finder. Check the option ‘Enable disk use.’ This setting allows the iPod to function as a storage device. |
| 4 | Format the iPod <br> Open Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS). Locate the iPod in the list of drives and format it to a file system compatible with your operating system (e.g., FAT32, exFAT, NTFS for Windows, HFS+ or APFS for macOS). |
| 5 | Eject and Use <br> Safely eject the iPod from your computer. It is now ready to be used as an external hard drive. Simply plug it into any computer to transfer files. |
Notes:
- Ensure your iPod’s battery is adequately charged or plugged into a power source during this process.
- The storage capacity of the iPod will be the limit of how much data you can store.
- Formatting the iPod will remove its ability to play music; it will strictly function as a storage device.
- Regular backups are recommended as iPods are not primarily designed for this purpose and may not be as reliable as dedicated external hard drives.
Is it worth using an old iPod as an external memory hard drive?
The answer is yes, iPods have enough memory to hold music while carrying any type of file . In addition, they are very easy to take anywhere so it will be like carrying a USB in your hands. You can store a reasonable amount of information in it that you can later extract to use for any purpose.
The advantage of this “external hard drive” is that it has the benefits of the Apple ecosystem. For example, if you find yourself in this situation, you will be able to locate your iPod in case of loss or theft .
If you want to format your computer and you don’t have a real external memory hard drive, you are free to use an old iPod to store your data, which works perfectly.
Repurposing your old iPod into an external hard drive is a great way to breathe new life into an otherwise unused device. By following these simple steps, you can transform your iPod into a valuable storage solution while decluttering your digital space. So, don’t let that old iPod go to waste – give it a new purpose and enjoy the benefits of additional storage for all your files. Start today and unleash the full potential of your old iPod as an external hard drive.
