Ipod shuffle won't charge but still works

Hi there NoDangName,

It sounds like your iPod shuffle isn't seen when you plug it into your computer but you can still listen to music through it. I would take a look at the information in either of the following articles about that kind of an issue depending on whether you have a Mac or a PC:

If you don't see your connected device in iTunes for Mac

iPhone, iPad, or iPod not recognized in iTunes for Windows

Thank you for using Apple Support Communities.

Which iPod shuffle model do you have? This document shows the 4 types of shuffles

Identify your iPod model - Apple Support

If it won't charge, how does it still work (since the battery will become drained)?

When you connect it, watch the shuffle's light. What (if anything) does the light do (blink, solid, color...)?

If this is a 2nd gen shuffle, are you using the USB cable that came with it (with mini-dock at iPod end)? Also, is your computer that runs iTunes a Mac or Windows PC?

You didn't answer the other questions... Also, are you using the short USB docking cable that came with your 4th gen shuffle? If the USB docking cable is from a third-party (an inexpensive replacement), it may be designed for the older 2nd gen shuffle. A cable for a 2nd gen shuffle will not work with a 4th gen shuffle.

The other question previously asked are:

If it won't charge, how does it still work (since the battery will become drained)?

When you connect it, watch the shuffle's light. What (if anything) does the light do (blink, solid, color...)?

Also, is your computer that runs iTunes a Mac or Windows PC?

Just to confirm, make sure the plug on the docking cable is FULLY inserted into the headphones jack on shuffle, as shown in this document

iPod shuffle (4th generation): Not seen in iTunes - Apple Support

Also, power off (shut down) your Mac. If you have a lot of other USB devices connected, (as a test) you should disconnect all devices (except for standard USB keyboard/mouse if used), including any hubs. Start up Mac, run iTunes, and connect shuffle by itself to a direct USB port on the Mac.

If that does not help, the other possibilities are (1) faulty USB docking cable, (2) a problem with the USB port on Mac, and (3) a problem on the shuffle.

To rule out (1) as the cause, you need to try a different USB docking cable. If that's not possible, and you have an Apple Store nearby, you can make an appointment at the Genius Bar (tech support at store). Take your shuffle there, along with the docking cable, and have them try it.

To rule out (2) as the cause, try more than one USB port on Mac. Connect something else to same port, such as a USB flash drive, to confirm it is working properly.

If you can rule out (1) and (2), the likely cause is (3). For example, the headphones jack on shuffle may be worn out and not making contact. NOTE: The standard warranty is for one year from date of purchase.