MD941
Level 1 (8 points)
iTunes

Q: Lost playlists on new computer

I recently purchased a new computer. I wasn't really sure how to go about transfering iTunes from my old computer to the new one. I decided to just download iTunes onto the new computer. I signed in and my library was there on the new computer. I'm fairly certain it's all there. I don't have any of my playlists though. Do I need to re-create them or is there a way to retrieve them?

HP PC, Windows 10

Posted on Aug 28, 2016 7:11 PM

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MD941

Q: Lost playlists on new computer

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  • by roaminggnome,

    roaminggnome roaminggnome Aug 28, 2016 8:31 PM in response to MD941
    Level 10 (96,899 points)
    Aug 28, 2016 8:31 PM in response to MD941

    You should have copied everything from your old computer to your new one.

     

    How to move your iTunes library to a new computer - Apple Support

  • by turingtest2,

    turingtest2 turingtest2 Aug 29, 2016 7:51 AM in response to MD941
    Level 10 (85,368 points)
    iPod
    Aug 29, 2016 7:51 AM in response to MD941

    Migrate an iTunes library from one computer to another

     

    These are two possible approaches that will normally work to move an existing library to a new computer.

     

    Method 1

    1. Backup the library with this User Tip.
    2. Deauthorize the old computer if you no longer want to access protected content on it.
    3. Restore the backup to your new computer using the same tool used to back it up.
    4. Keep your backup up-to-date in future.

     

    Method 2

    Connect the two computers to the same network. Share your <User's Music> folder from the old computer and copy the entire iTunes library folder into the <User's Music> folder on the new one. Again, deauthorize the old computer if no longer required.

     

    Both methods should give the new computer a working clone of the library that was on the old one. As far as iTunes is concerned this is still the "home" library for your devices so you shouldn't have any issues with iTunes wanting to erase and reload.

     

    I'd recommend method 1 since it establishes an ongoing backup for your library.

     

    Note if you have iOS devices and haven't moved your contacts and calendar items across then you should create one dummy entry of each in your new profile and iTunes should  merge the existing data from the device.

     

    If your media folder has been split out from the main iTunes folder you may need to do some preparatory work to make it easier to move. See Make a split library portable.

     

    Should you be in the unfortunate position where you are no longer able to access your original library or a backup then then see Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device for advice on how to set up your devices with a new library with the maximum preservation of data.

     

     

     

    tt2