The iPod Nano
Owners of a first-generation iPod Nano may be offered a replacement iPod in exchange for their old devices. Due to overheating battery issues that increase as the devices get older, Apple has launched a global replacement programme.
In a support section of the iPod pages on the Apple site, the company explained: “Apple has determined that, in very rare cases, the battery in the iPod Nano (first generation) may overheat and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod Nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006.
“This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. While the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood increases as the battery ages.
“Apple recommends that you stop using your iPod Nano (first generation) and follow the process noted below (sic) to order a replacement unit, free of charge.”
Owners of first-generation iPod Nano devices can check the serial number on the backs of their devices to see if it is eligible to be replaced and, if so, they will receive a replacement unit six weeks after Apple receives the affected model.
Owners of personalised models will not receive the same details on the device, and users are being urged to use iTunes to back up all their content before sending their devices back to Apple.
It is still unclear as to whether the users will receive the latest generation iPod or will be issued with new versions of the first-generation iPod Nano.
It is interesting as to why Apple is only beginning a replacement programme now since the overheating issue has been public knowledge for at least three years.
In Japan, the government there ordered an investigation in 2008 after overheating cases were reported. In August, a commuter train in Tokyo was delayed at rush hour when passengers reported a burning smell from an overheated iPod Nano.
