iPod Icons Explained
Apple removed their support forums for older iPods such as the Classic lineup. But here’s the groups of icons for preservation purposes. More will be added in the near future.
For iPod Classic (4th gen with monochrome display):
Apple Logo
This is the normal startup screen for monochrome iPod Classics.
Sad iPod
This means your HDD is broken. In some cases text saying ‘www.apple.com/support/ipod’ will be included below.
Folder Icon/Use iTunes to Restore
You will need to restore your iPod using iTunes. In some cases, ‘www.apple.com/support/ipod’ will be included below this icon.
Connect to Power
You need to connect your iPod to a charging plug.
Charging, Please Wait
You will need to wait until there’s enough charge for the iPod to boot.
For iPod Classic (5th generation, video):
Apple Logo
This is the normal Apple startup screen for this iPod.
Use iTunes to Restore
This screen means you need to restore your iPod video. It replaces the folder icon in previous models.
Sad iPod
The screen will be put to full brightness when this error shows up. It means your HDD is broken.
Please wait, very low battery.
This screen shows up when the iPod’s battery isn’t charged enough to boot, and is currently connected to power.
Critically Low Battery, Charging
This is when the iPod doesn’t have enough battery to show the animation in the picture above. It’s just a monochrome charging icon.
Connect to Power
This screen will show up if your iPod is on low battery and is unable to start.
Update Mode
This is when the iPod is being updated or restored.
For iPod Classic (6th and 7th gen):
Apple Logo
Normal Startup
Red X / Dead HDD
This replaces the ‘Sad iPod’ screen.
Connect to Power
Well, you’re supposed to connect the iPod to a charger, right?
Charging, Please Wait
Now that’s better. You just have to wait until the Apple logo appears.
Use iTunes to Restore
This usually happens when the internal HDD on your iPod classic requires a restoration via iTunes.
Software Update/Restore
This is the Apple logo that would appear when an iPod undergoes a software restore or update.
