How to Sync an iPod Touch (iOS 9.3.5) with macOS 10.13 and iTunes 12.8.3.1

Last tested: May 2025 | Hardware: iPod Touch 5th Gen + MacBook Pro 17" (2010)

If you're trying to get your old iPod Touch to sync with your Mac running macOS High Sierra (10.13), you might run into a frustrating "Ask Apple" message or find the iPod icon greyed out in iTunes. Here's how to fix it.

✅ Prerequisites

  • macOS 10.13 with iTunes 12.8.3.1

  • iPod Touch 5th gen running iOS 9.3.5

  • USB cable (original or good quality third-party)

🧩 Fix Steps

1. Clear device pairing lock

In Terminal, run:

sudo rm -rf /var/db/lockdown/*

This clears old pairing records between macOS and the iPod.

2. Reset trust on iPod

On your iPod:

  • Go to Settings → General → Reset → Reset Location & Privacy

  • Then reboot it:

    • Hold Home + Power until the Apple logo appears.

3. Reconnect and trust

  • Plug the iPod back in.

  • When prompted, tap “Trust” on the iPod screen.

4. Fix stuck iTunes connection (if needed)

If iTunes still refuses to connect:

  • Reset network settings:
    Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings

  • Reboot and reconnect. Press Trust again when asked.

🎵 Enable Manual Management

Once the iPod appears in iTunes:

  • Click the iPod icon → go to Summary

  • Tick “Manually manage music and videos”

  • Click Apply

You should now be able to drag music directly to your iPod.

📝 Notes

  • You may need to be patient — initial reconnection can take 10–20 seconds.

  • If all else fails, create a new macOS user account and test there to rule out corrupt settings.

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