Basic question about synching photos from iOS to OS X

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Level 2

368 points

Basic question about synching photos from iOS to OS X

I don't seem to understand the concept of synching an iOS device to a OS X device. When I connect my iPod to my iMac, I use iTunes to sync them. My understanding of "sync" is that both devices place data on each other that the other lacks. That data is then accessible on both devices. But after synching, I cannot find the iPod data, photos in particular, anywhere on the iMac. I understand that one can IMPORT selected photos or other data into a designated app but that is a separate task from synching. Does synching from iOS to OS X mean that it's basically a backup for the iOS device, but that that data is not accessible on the OS X device?

iPod touch, iOS 9.2.1

Posted on May 9, 2016 12:47 AM

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Answer 1

lllaass

Level 10

210,519 points

May 9, 2016 1:37 AM in response to bookmanjb

Syncing is NOT make them the same. Yo have to select what to sync

To import photos/videos taken by the iPod to your Mac see:

Import photos and videos from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

To sync photos to your iPod

Keep your photos safely stored and up to date on all your devices - Apple Support

To sync media from your iTunes libray to your iPod see:

Sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iTunes using USB - Apple Support

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Answer 2

bookmanjb Author

Level 2

368 points

May 9, 2016 1:55 AM in response to lllaass

Thanks so much for your reply but I think you misunderstood the sense of my question. As I wrote, I understand how to import from the iPod to the iMac. And I understand that one can synch everything or select specific data. What I don't understand is why one has to import when one has already synched. This suggests to me that "synching" is actually just backing up and that the data from that backup is not available to the OS X user UNLESS it is ALSO imported.

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