I Just Got an iPod. What Should I Do Next?

You're the proud owner of a new iPod. Congratulations! You're going to have fun with your new toy. If you're wondering how to get started, here are some tips along with links to Lifewire articles that have directions to set up, use, and troubleshoot your iPod.

To set up your iPod for the first time, make sure you have the required software and accounts. After that, follow the instructions about how to use the software to set up your iPod and get started.

Here's what you'll need:

• iTunes to set up the iPod and to sync music, podcasts, and other content to it. Learn how to install iTunes on Mac or on Windows.
• An Apple ID to activate the iPod and download content from iTunes to your iPod. Learn how to create an Apple ID.

There are several versions of the iPod and each has slightly different setup directions.

The iPod nano is small and lightweight. Yet it also includes useful features, such as a screen and long battery life, making it a popular choice. Learn how to set up an iPod nano.

Although it doesn't have a display screen, the iPod Shuffle is ultra-portable. Its size and light weight make it perfect for a workout. Find out how easy it is to set up an iPod Shuffle.

The iPod Classic features a large, widescreen, color screen. It also has the ability to display videos and pictures, making it a longstanding favorite. Learn how to set up an iPod Classic.

Getting your iPod set up is the first step. The next step is to learn how to do all the things that make the iPod an awesome device.

These articles will help you master the common iPod tasks:

• If you own music in CD format, use iTunes to move the music to your iPod. Learn how to get songs from CD to iPod.
• Another way to load songs onto the iPad is to purchase the music. Either download a single song or an entire album. Buy music at the iTunes Store and fill your iPod with the songs you're into.
• Make your music listening experience more enjoyable by creating custom playlists in iTunes.
• Conserve storage space by putting your iTunes library to work. Use Smart Playlists to optimize storage space. There are three methods, choose the one that best suits your needs.
• When you want to hear something new and fresh, use the iPod nano FM radio to stream your favorite stations. Headphones work as an antenna for the device.
• If you want to listen to your iPod in your vehicle, use a car stereo adapter. Find out which iPhone car stereo adapter is best for you.
• Take care of your ears while listening to tunes. Find out how to avoid iPhone and iPod hearing loss.

After you become comfortable with your iPod, dig a little deeper into what you can do with the device.

Here are some features you may want to explore:

• There are apps available for most iPod models. The apps you can install on the iPod nano depend on the model you have and what apps you want.
• To keep some songs from playing louder than other music, learn how to use the soundcheck feature to play everything at a single volume.
• The 6th generation iPod nano has a versatile clip. The device can be clipped anywhere, but it's not helpful if the screen is sideways. Find out how to rotate the screen on the iPod nano.
• Not sure whether the battery is running low on your Shuffle? There's a way to find out fast. Learn how to charge an iPod Shuffle to get this trick.

Just like any technology gadget, sometimes things go wrong with the iPod. When they go wrong, it's good to know how to fix them. If your iPod is frozen, it's likely a software issue. Find out how to restart an iPod touch, restart an iPod nano, or restart an iPod Shuffle and get it back in proper working order.

Want to get all the details directly from Apple? Find out how to download iPod nano manuals or iPod Shuffle manuals.

Want to really learn all the ins and outs of your model? Search the Lifewire.com site to find pages dedicated to different iPod models that collect how-tos, reviews, tricks, and troubleshooting articles.