Reset an iPod Nano

Is your iPod nano frozen? Resetting will solve most problems with a stubborn iPod. The method is a little different depending on which version of the nano you have. If your nano has a wheel, then it's a Reset-an-iPod-Nano. If it is square shaped and only has a screen, then it's Reset-an-iPod-Nano. If it is rectangular with a Home button, then it's Reset-an-iPod-Nano.

Steps

iPod nano 1st–5th Gen

  1. Toggle the Hold switch. Toggle the Hold switch on and then off again. You should only have to do this once.
  2. Hold down the Menu and Select buttons at the same time. Hold the buttons for about 6-8 seconds. The Apple logo should appear if the reset was successful.
    • You may need to repeat this process in order to successfully reset the iPod.[1]
  3. Restore-an-iPod. If you can't get the iPod to reset no matter what you do, your last chance is to try restoring your iPod to factory conditions. You will lose any music stored on the iPod, but you may be able to get it working again. If restoring the iPod does not work, then you may need to send it in for service.

iPod nano 6th Gen

  1. Press and hold the Sleep button and the Volume Down button. Hold both buttons for at least eight seconds. Continue holding until the Apple log appears on the on the screen.
    • You may need to repeat this process.
  2. Connect the iPod to a computer or a power outlet. If a normal reset doesn't work, you may need to plug it into the wall or a computer that's turned on. Hold down the Sleep and Volume Down button again while the iPod is plugged in.
  3. Let the iPod charge. If the screen remains dark after trying to reset, the battery may be dead. You'll need to plug it into the wall for at least 10 minutes before trying to reset it again.[2]
  4. Restore-an-iPod. If you can't get the iPod to reset no matter what you do, your last chance is to try restoring your iPod to factory conditions. You will lose any music stored on the iPod, but you may be able to get it working again. If restoring the iPod does not work, then you may need to send it in for service.

iPod nano 7th Gen

  1. Press and hold the Sleep button. Hold the button until your screen goes dark. This may take a few moments. The Apple logo will appear, and then your Home screen should come up.
  2. Restore-an-iPod. If you can't get the iPod to reset no matter what you do, your last chance is to try restoring your iPod to factory conditions. You will lose any music stored on the iPod, but you may be able to get it working again. If restoring the iPod does not work, then you may need to send it in for service.



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Sources and Citations