iPod and iTunes Hacks

Hacks 1–22

Most of us still remember the first time we saw our brand-new iPod. Unfolding the box is an origami experience that results in the final vision of a gleaming white and metal iPod—a new iPod that is clean and perfect, but not for long. The first hack in this chapter helps you get your iPod looking as good as new again [Hack #1] .

But the iPod is much more than an aesthetic masterpiece; it is also a technological one. Within that small space is a hard drive, microprocessor, battery, amplifier, RAM, and much more. All these bits and pieces can be used for much more than a mind-blowing music player. This chapter helps you get the most out of your iPod and, in some cases, take it beyond its originally purpose. How about turning your iPod into a wireless jukebox [Hack #20] or integrating it with your car’s remote control system [Hack #12] ? Start reading!

But before you do, you should be aware of some conventions. Back in the early days of the iPod, there was just one iPod. Things aren’t so simple anymore. Various hacks in this chapter are specific to a particular iPod. Here is the breakdown of all the iPods:

Generation 1 iPod

This was the first iPod, which Apple released in October 2001. It is the original iPod form factor with a regular FireWire jack and a physical scroll wheel.

Generation 2 iPod

This version featured a larger, 10 GB hard drive. Otherwise, physically, it is the same as a generation 1 iPod.

Generation 3 iPod

This design featured a touch-sensitive scroll wheel, ...