Deleting music from iPhone through iTunes without syncing

For reasons beyond our ken Apple have set things up so that an iPhone can only be manually managed with a single library. Attempting to make changes from another library can result in existing content being removed when you don't want it to be. If you're seeing content that appears to be on the device but won't play then see this post on erratic syncing.

tt2

Thanks for clarifying, Slimslamcman,

In order to get the content back onto your iPhone, you will need to sync a single iTunes library that contains that music with your device. If the missing content is in an iTunes library that is different than other music you have on your device, you will need to combine libraries into a single one and sync that library with your device.

To combine libraries, first create a new library: Use multiple iTunes libraries on PC - Apple Support, then import all your music into the library: Import media from a computer to iTunes on PC - Apple Support.

Cheers!

Hi, Slimslamcman,

Thanks for visiting the Apple Support Communities regarding managing your music. I understand that you're trying to transfer music from your Windows PC to your iPhone without syncing directly through iTunes. I'm happy to provide you with some information.

Currently, you can move music from your computer to your iPhone one of three ways:

1. Using the sync function within iTunes: Use iTunes to sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod with your computer - Apple Support
2. Becoming an Apple Music member: Join Apple Music on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or PC - Apple Support
3. Subscribing to iTunes Match: Subscribe to iTunes Match - Apple Support

You can only sync with one iTunes library at a time, whether you're syncing directly with method one or you're using one of the music services.

Best.