To: Anyone at Apple who works on iPod/iTunes
From: Annoyed iPod Shuffle user
Subject: Stop deleting my songs
Message:
A recent run was rudely cut short when I realized that my iPod Shuffle contained just two of the hundred or so songs that I listen to while working out. Some sleuthing lead me to discover that every time I connect my iPod to the docking station and open iTunes, the program re-syncs every song I have on the device. If the song is not located in the original location — i.e. the place on my computer that I uploaded it from — iTunes jumps to the conclusion that I must not want the song on my iPod any longer. I can sincerely assure you that this is never the case. The NAS device where I house my music is only connected when I need something, and I do not consider your RIAA-worshipping deletion paranoia a legitimate reason to alter my behavior.
Your devices are indeed wonderful, I bought one after all. However the software connected to it leaves much to be desired. Obviously I’m not alone, as there are a plethora of alternatives to your crap-tastic iTunes interface. If the Genius Bar isn’t smart enough to realize that *I* get to decide what goes on and comes off the device, it’s hardly deserving of the title, and I suggest you put your efforts toward a better overall experience.
In a way, I can’t say I blame you. Your devices bring in hordes of money, the software that runs on the desktop is almost an afterthought. However I can assure that I am keeping my eyes keen for the company that can deliver a competitive product with a superior interface with my computer.
You hear that, competitors? I want to give you money for the stuff that Apple can’t deliver. Quit charging them in the open field, and start sniping at range. Their armor is weak just below the neck…
I happened to chance upon this blog while I was reading some other blog. The person linking to your blog listed you as a friend and mentor and I was curious to see what you had to say. I don’t work for apple and I doubt I ever will but I struggle with your argument posted here. I may be ill informed but I feel like there are several problems with what you state. I am the owner of an iPhone, 30 GB iPod, 60 GB iPod, and an iPod nano. I have also owned several previous generations of the listed bunch. You may call me a mac fanboy however, I own both mac and windows and do not care much for either. They both have their flaws. I will note however that when I sync anyone of my devices it does not remove anything from my iPod and it certainly does not sync every song. I have over 19 days (roughly 6000 some songs) and if it was syncing every song, I believe I would know. Also, it leaves songs on my iPod and notifies me if it cant find them in the library. I feel like you may be experiencing an issue with settings of some sort since I have never encountered any of the problems you listed. Also Genius button is a playlist generator that groups songs of similar modes/genre/etc to your liking. It actually works great and I enjoy it because I can choose a song and make a list that follows that mood. Also for the money bit. Itunes is completely free and the only money made is in the store. Apple only actually sees about 10 cents per song. I understand your frustration and I support your quest for alternatives, I just feel like you may not have really understood what you typed!
Thanks for the counter report, Mike. Based on what you’re saying I’m not sure you’re replicating my scenario exactly, so you can try this:
This is a simulated example of how my setup currently works. I have a small NAS box that sits under my desk. It makes a helluva racket when running, so I only turn it on when needed. But it holds all my music, and anytime I connect my shuffle without the box enabled, the songs that came from there vanish. Hopefully that makes a little more sense than my sarcastic CS letter.
If you take the time, be sure to let us know how your test goes. Everyone else is welcome and encouraged to try this as well.