[Perdogg]

try opening the player with realplayer or windows media.

[centurion316]

I agree, best solution is to get a legal copy of Windows XP. But, don’t pay that much. Copies are available for around $80, maybe cheaper. They may not have SP3, but once you have a legal copy, then you can download SP3.

[Incorrigible]

iPod only works with iTunes as far as I know.

And yes, it’s unfortunate that she got taken by some hucksters. Most local white-box shops are reputable but there are plenty that are not.

[rightwingextremist1776]

Nope...needs Itunes to update the Ipod...
Take a look at upgrading to Windows 7 instead. Might be cheaper in the long run because XP support will get left in the dust.

[Incorrigible]

There’s plenty of Windows XP available on eBay for around $80. As always, buyer beware.

[Navy Patriot]

If you don't have the OEM disc and sticker for the XP then I suggest Windows 7 Pro OEM full at Fry's for about $140, sometimes on sale.

Do a backup and fresh install, you need a DVD drive.

[tired1]

dl gom player, might work.

http://www.gomlab.com/eng/GMP_download.html

[smokingfrog]

Even if iTunes may not work, doesn’t the computer at least recognize it as an external drive so you can transfer music files to it using the file manager?

[smokingfrog]

Maybe you should try downloading an older version of iTunes that doesn’t require sp3 and see if it will work.

[concentric circles]

One alternative would be to return the ipod to a national retailer for store credit. Purchase a non-apple mp3 player and download music without apple’s restrictions.

[tfecw]

I’d try with an alternative to iTunes first (They exist just need to dig around for them). That should at least get you music on it.