I am unable to update my ipod. It currently has 4.2 on it. When I try to download an app it either tells me that its not compatable or that I need to update to iOS 6. I'm guessing I have an older ipod there's not an updated software under general like on the newer versions.Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I suspect you have a 2G iPod. Those can only go to iOS 4.2.1.
iPod touch (3rd generation)
iPod touch (3rd generation) features a 3.5-inch (diagonal) widescreen multi-touch display and 32 GB or 64 GB flash drive. You can browse the web with Safari and watch YouTube videos with Wi-Fi. You can also search, preview, and buy songs from the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store on iPod touch.
The iPod touch (3rd generation) can be distinguished from iPod touch (2nd generation) by looking at the back of the device. In the text below the engraving, look for the model number. iPod touch (2nd generation) is model A1288, and iPod touch (3rd generation) is model A1318.
To more easily find compatible apps:
iOSSearch - search the iTunes store for compatible apps.
Apple Club - filter apps by iOS version.
Starting when iOS 7 was released, Apple now allows downloading the last compatible version of some apps (iOS 4.2.1 and later only)
App Store: Downloading Older Versions of Apps on iOS - Apple Club
App Store: Install the latest compatible version of an app
You first have to download the non-compatible version on your computer. Then when you try to purchase the version on your iPod you will be offered a compatible version if one exists.
To update
The Settings>General>Software Update comes with iOS 5 and later.
Connect the iPod to your computer and update via iTunes as far as your iPod model allows
iOS: How to update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
A 1G iPod can go to iOS 2.2 via iTunes and iOS 3.1.3 via
Purchasing iOS 3.1 Software Update for iPod touch (1st generation)
https://buy.itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZFinance.woa/wa/touchLegacyLandingPage
- A 2G to 4.2.1. Requires iTunes version 10 or higher. If a Mac it requires OSX 10.5.8 or later.
- A 3G to 5.1.1 Requires iTunes version 10.5 or later
- A 4G to 6.1.6 Requires iTunes version 10.7 or later. For a Mac, that requires a Mac with OSX 10.6.8 or later
- A 5G to iOS 7.1.1 Requires iTunes 11.1 or later if you update via iTunes
iOS update
