Use iPod without iTunes
If you have an iPod, you have a problem: Apparently nothing works without iTunes. However, this is not true. In this practical tip, we explain which alternatives are available and which restrictions you have to accept.
iTunes - What are the alternatives?
First of all: Basically all alternatives are not real iTunes competitors, but programs with which you can transfer songs from or to the iPod. So you don't have to use resource-heavy iTunes. If you want an extensive, stylish music manager and you have an iPod, it may still be a better choice to use iTunes. This also gives you access to the iTunes Store.
CopyTrans Manager - iTunes alternative for iPod?
The approximately 8 MB program "CopyTrans Manager" can do everything you need to manage your iPod. If iTunes is too bloated for you, this tool is a good alternative. You can transfer songs, photos, videos or apps, edit playlists and even backup your apps in IPA format.
- Download the program from the CHIP download page. It only consists of an EXE file and is therefore portable.
- Portable means you don't have to install anything, just run the program. That means you can also copy the tool to your iPod and always have it with you.
- Start "CopyTrans" and then connect your iPod to the PC via USB.
- Now all songs and playlists appear automatically. You can easily add songs by drag and drop.
SharePod - just copy songs from iPod
For copy protection reasons, Apple does not allow you to simply copy songs from your iPod to your PC. A slim tool can help:
- With the freeware Sharepod you can also operate your iPod without iTunes.
- Like CopyTrans Manager, Sharepod supports copying songs from and to iPod. Backups of the device are also no problem.
- The surface of the program is clear and self-explanatory. The tool is portable, so all you need is the EXE file. Please note that the program only starts if the iPod is already connected to your PC via USB.
- As of version 4.0, Sharepod is no longer free but shareware, i.e. it costs a fee (around $ 20). However, you can still use the free version 3.99.
