fix sync issues in media Player

Try the following steps in order on Windows 10 to fix sync issues in Windows Media Player (WMP):

1. Check the device and connection
   • Make sure the phone/portable device is properly connected and recognized by Windows.
   • If it appears as a drive but not in WMP, disconnect and reconnect it, or try a different USB port/cable.
2. Use the legacy Windows Media Player sync list
   If using the legacy WMP and the Sync button is missing:
   • Open Windows Media Player (legacy version).
   • Select some tracks in the library.
   • Right‑click the selected tracks and choose Add to → Sync list.
   • The Sync list should appear on the right; from there, choose the device and start sync.
3. Fix codec or playback-related issues (if sync fails on specific files)
   If certain files won’t sync or play on the device:
   • Check if the files play correctly in WMP on the PC.
   • If WMP shows codec-related errors (0xC00D11xx range), follow these steps:
     • Right‑click the media file → Properties → Details to see format/codec.
     • Install or update the required codecs (for example, using a codec pack as described in the WMP error troubleshooting article).
   • If playback errors like 0xC00D0BC2, 0xC00D36FA, 0xC00D10B3, or 0xC00D1059 occur, follow the playback troubleshooting steps below, as they can also affect sync:
     • Install or update codecs.
     • Clear the WMP database:
       1. Close WMP.
       2. Press Windows + R, type %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Media Player\ and press Enter.
       3. Delete all files in that folder (do not delete the folder itself).
       4. Restart WMP to rebuild the library.
     • Update audio and graphics drivers (via Device Manager or manufacturer site).
     • Check for malware with antivirus software.
     • Run sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to repair system files if needed.
4. Run the Windows Media Player troubleshooter
   • Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters.
   • Select Windows Media Player and run the troubleshooter.
     This can automatically fix common WMP problems that may impact sync.
5. Repair or reset Windows Media Player
   • Select Start → Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
   • Find Windows Media Player, select the three dots → Advanced options.
   • Click Repair first. If issues persist, click Reset.
     Note: Reset removes custom WMP settings and preferences but not media files.
6. Reinstall Windows Media Player (if sync still does not work)
   • Open Control Panel → Programs.
   • Select Turn Windows features on or off.
   • Clear the check box for Media Features, click OK, and restart the PC.
   • Return to the same dialog, re‑check Media Features, click OK, and restart again.
   • Open WMP and reconfigure sync with the device.

If sync still fails after these steps, use the Windows Media Player support page or Windows forum referenced in the WMP troubleshooting article for more device‑specific guidance.

References:

• Troubleshoot Windows Media Player Errors
• How to sync music from WMP now the sync button has disappeared - Microsoft Q&A