Copy music from newer iTunes library to older version of iTunes

Question

Level 1

4 points

Copy music from newer iTunes library to older version of iTunes

I updated to iTunes version 12.13.2 on Windows 10 since then my ipod classic won't connect to itunes. I contacted Apple and suggested installing iTunes 12.6.5.3, then shift-start-iTunes at first launch to connect to a new

temporary library. Check to see if you have access to the iPod, then install the current version and reconnect to your main library. I dd this, but ipod still not recognised - I think version 12.13.2 strips out application support and the ipod connection. The iTunes 12.6.5.3 cannot read my library as it was created with a nwer version of iTunes. I tried downloading version 12.10.11, but it still can't read my library.

Is there a way to manually copy or pull my music files from my library creatde under 12.13.2 to the new library for 12.10.11 with going through itunes itself?

At the moment I seem to either have version 12.10.11, ipod can connect but no access to library or version 12.13.2 with all my music, but can't connect my ipod.

In my previous itunes library I have file datesd 2023-01-10 Is there an Itunes version that can read this? although its old at least I won't have to physically download all my CDs on to iTunes again, which will take months!

Thanks

iPod Classic

Posted on Oct 8, 2024 3:57 AM

Reply

Answer 1

turingtest2

Level 10

274,564 points

Oct 8, 2024 6:38 AM in response to AliRR

If you're trying to get your full library with ratings, play counts, playlists, etc. migrated into an older build of iTunes then you can export the library as an XML file with the more recent build/library (File > Library > Export Library), then uninstall the current copy of iTunes, install the older build, create a new empty library by holding down shift as you launch iTunes, and import the XML file created earlier with File > Library > Import Playlist. Sadly this method will reset Date Added for every track.

That said the current build of iTunes should be able to communicate with older iPods. When it doesn't then the steps in this user tip may help: iOS device not showing in iTunes for Windows - Apple Community.

tt2

Reply

Answer 2

AliRR Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 8, 2024 6:53 AM in response to turingtest2

I did try: iOS device not showing in iTunes for Windows - Apple Community. previously, but it didn't seem to work - although I couldn't see a .inf file there was a usbaapI64 which in the Type column said Setup Info, so i opened that. Was that the correct thing to do (in which case, sadly it didn't work) or do I need to use the .inf file which I couldn't see in that location?

Reply

Answer 3

AliRR Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 8, 2024 6:21 AM in response to Niel

Thanks, That allowed me to get the music from the previous version iTunes library 2023-01-10.

How do I now add the missing music? Sorry I'm not very tech savvy! Which folders do I need to open (On my unreadable library) and which folder do I drag them into now I've the library dated 2023-01-10 as my library?

Do I need to move/rename the library 2023-01-10, or does it stay in my previous itunes folder?

Many thanks for your help so far!

Reply

Answer 4

AliRR Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 8, 2024 6:46 AM in response to turingtest2

Thanks, I haven't got time to look into your solution and I don't want to rush anything!

I'll give it a go at the weekend.

Many thanks for this any your other help as I've used your advise from other threads previously

Reply

Answer 5

turingtest2

Level 10

274,564 points

Oct 8, 2024 12:44 PM in response to AliRR

Some file extensions may be hidden by default depending on your settings in Windows Explorer. In this case I'm sure the usbappl64 file you saw would have been the relevant file. Those steps have helped others in similar circumstances, but I cannot be certain they will work every time.

tt2

Reply

Answer 6

Niel

Level 10

732,479 points

Oct 8, 2024 5:59 AM in response to AliRR

Try opening the previous library in 12.10.11. If that doesn't work, drag all of the song files/folders into the open window of that version or the Automatically Add to iTunes folder.

(255816)

Reply