ipod and ipad connectivity issues Catalina 10.15.7

Thank you for the reply and the link turingtest2.

Previously, when I connected the classic iPod to the computer it opened iTunes, but recently it just mounted like an HD - files are visible but unrecognisable as mp3's.

Recently, I updated to OS 11.1 and after the iPod mounted on the desktop I dragged it onto the new 'Music' app. in the dock, which then opened. The iPod then showed under 'Devices' in the 'Music' app. It seems a bit unstable as it was ejected without reason a few times. But I will research how to manage. The various classifications of Books, Music, language lessons, folders are no longer shown.

I am unsure what was happening with Catalina later updates, but Big Sur, although sluggish, seems to load the iPod.

The first generation iPad doesn't mount on the desk top but is shown directly in Music. Unfortunately, no files are shown as the iPad only has videos. There is a drop down at the bottom of 'Music' app showing 'music' in red, I thought this would drop down for videos, but it doesn't.

I followed https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT210611 and could locate the iPad in a Finder sidebar window. It seems that there is only the ability to sync the content. Usually, I just delete what I've watched and add new content.

Clicking manage shows what is under the different classifications, but there appears no way to add just specific content. Some books are shown that are not on the iPad, so that is interesting - they must have been deleted previously but are still accessible?

Not sure how to resolve deleting and adding specific video files to the iPad. This old iPad could become a plate coaster at this rate.

Greetings ryane77. Thank you for your reply. Yes, I had already seen those instructions, but they didn't resolve the issue. That was why I posted the question, as I couldn't find a solution that would work. I hadn't connected the iPod or iPad to the computer for some years, so all the updates to the OS may be causing the incompatibility. The iPad is the first edition and the iPod is also one of the first sold.

Thank you for the reply and help turingtest2.

I managed to get the Finder option working for adding mp3's to the classic iPod and Videos to the first generation iPad after restarting the computer after the first few fails attempts yesterday.

I found that dropping files into the pop-up that are triggered by the 'Manage Storage' button; while the files don't show as added - they were in fact in the devices.

As you say, there seems no way to classify in folders like early Catalina, but glad at least I can add the files when running Big Sur.

Thank you for the useful and accurate help turingtest2. I will give what you suggest a try. Great that I can now add and delete from the iPod and iPad.