why does iTunes keep canceling the sync?

Hello there, Steve.

The following Knowledge Base article offers some great steps for troubleshooting issues with syncing your iOS device:

iOS: Troubleshooting USB-related alerts when syncing

http://support.apple.com/kb/TS5254

Check connections

Try the following steps to check the connection between your device or computer. You might need to do only one of these steps to resolve the issue, so test your connection after each step.

1. See if the cable connection at the device or computer has come loose or unplugged.
   Unplug the cable you're using to connect your iOS device from the USB port on your computer, and then reconnect it. Then unplug it from your iOS device, and reconnect it.
2. Remove any third-party battery packs or cases from the device and ensure that the USB cable is connected directly to the port on the device.
3. If your Lightning or 30-pin cable is connected to a keyboard, display or USB hub, try plugging it directly into a USB port on the computer instead.
4. Close any virtualization apps (such as Parallels or VMWare).
   These apps may interfere with your computer's ability to communicate over USB if they aren't properly configured, or up to date. If this resolves the issue, contact the developer of the app to see if an update is available.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Restart your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch.
7. If you're using an accessory or third-party cable to connect your device, try using an Apple cable with the device instead.
8. Update to the latest version of iTunes if you have not already.
9. Disconnect other USB devices from your computer, except for your keyboard and mouse. Then, reconnect your iOS device. If the issue is resolved, reconnect the other USB devices one at a time. Make sure your iOS device is still recognized by the computer after adding back each device.

If one of these steps resolves the issue, but it comes back later, make sure you haven't changed how the device is connected. For example, check to see if you plugged the device into a specific accessory, or used a specific cable that reintroduced the issue.

Thanks for reaching out to Apple Support Communities.

Cheers,

Pedro.

I tried this and it didm't work. I also tried restoring my iPhone but that didn't work either. Any other ideas?

Inspect the charging port area for dirt/debris/fluff build-up that may be preventing a good connection and use a wooden toothpick, soft clean toothbrush, or a can of compressed air to clean it. Also look for bent or broken pins. Try another cable (be sure to always use a genuine Apple certified brand). Try another USB port. If you're using a hub, try a direct connection. If you're using a USB port in the front of a desktop computer, try one in the back. If all these fail, make an appointment at your nearest Genius Bar to have the device evaluated.

Thanks but the problem isn't with the connection. Apps seem to sync across just fine. It's only podcasts. I've tried restoring the phone a few times. It worked a few weeks ago when I tried it but hasn't worked again. Perhaps it's the iPhone but this feels like a software problem. Or is it that the iPhone 4 is finally giving up the ghost?

What would it hurt to try my suggestions?