HowTo: Get the Apple iPod Touch 3.1 update free

I was restoring an iPod of mine today, and I think that this method of updating your iPod actually works! If someone tries it and it also works, please let me know by commenting below. Here are the steps for updating your iPod Touch for free:

1. Back-up your iPod

This is extremely important. In iTunes, there is an option under the iPod tab to back-up your iPod. If this procedure goes wrong, which it shouldn't, you will atleast have a safe back-up to rely on.

2. Put your iPod in Recovery Mode

Here's how to do it. First, Connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Next, press and hold the home button. While you are still holding this, press and hold the Sleep button until you see the Apple logo, then immediately let go, but continue to hold to Home button. Then, when you see an iTunes logo and a plug, you can let go of the Home button. Your iPod is now in Recovery mode.

3. Restore your iPod

Once your iPod is in Recovery Mode, a dialog box will appear in iTunes saying that it has detected an iPod in Recovery Mode, and it will ask you if you want to restore and update this iPod. Click Yes.

4. Download and install the software update

Finally, iTunes will begin downloading the huge update file, and will restore your iPod with the latest software.

And there you have it! Your iPod should be completely up to date with Software 3.1.

Note: If you use a passcode, you will want to disable that before beginning this process. It messes up the iPod restoration process, and it will not work.

- Adam Sidiali