Heh, I think I was unclear in my post. The iTunes thing was separate.
What I mean to say is, I don't think the ** feature works in Windows (or at least my version of it). I've actually been working on a really cool 100% javascript app that interfaces with the shuffle (windows only, sorry :( ).
I'll let you know when that's in a fully functional beta, in case you have one or two PC users. Haha.
Heh, I just commented on that last article, but here's where the playlists are, in case anyone wanted to tinker (and didn't already know):
H:iPod_ControliTunes
once you get in there, the files aren't hidden. This is for a PC, btw.
Hrm... for some reason, the asterisks don't work on my comp (I'm running WinXP).
Also, I didn't mention before, but I found that the directory iPod_ControliTunes has all of the playlists.
I put the little bit of info that I know at ipod.willschupp.com - I'm not sure if it's useful at all. I'm really surprised more shuffle-related stuff hasn't popped up yet.
And as another addon, the following can simply be typed into windows explorer to access the files:
H:iPod_ControlMusicF00
Replace F00 w/ F01 and F02 to get more files (it appears that the shuffle doesn't use F03 & up).
As far as updating the playlists, I think there is at least one iPod 3rd party program that is open source, maybe it would provide the insight into that format for you?
Just as an addon to the above, I've figured out how to get into the iPod Control in DOS:
cd /d h:iPod_Control
(This assumes that your computer assigns H: to the iPod, which you can check easily when it's plugged in)
I can't figure out how to copy the contents to the desktop. I think this would be a neat little script to have around.
A Look Inside the iPod Shuffle
How to Autofill your iPod Shuffle from your iPod Or iPod Mini
A Look Inside the iPod Shuffle
A Look Inside the iPod Shuffle
A Look Inside the iPod Shuffle
A Look Inside the iPod Shuffle