Apple to replace iPads when battery charge fades
by Stevie Smith - Mar 15 2010, 08:45
It's nice, but where's the battery compartment? Image: DPA/ZUMAPress.com
The iPad may well become 2010’s standout consumer electronic device thanks to its generous 9.7-inch screen, multi-touch interface, wireless connectivity and the undisputed power of Apple’s iconic branding.
However, much like the iPhone and iPod before it, the iPad comes with the associated inconvenience of not carrying a removable (and therefore replaceable) battery, which means prospective buyers will need to send their ailing tablets into Apple whenever charge capacity begins to fade.
While the recently announced Battery Replacement Service for the iPad is similar to that offered for the iPhone and iPod, it differs significantly because Apple has said it will replace the entire tablet device rather than simply swap out the old battery for a fresh cell and return the original hardware.
“If your iPad requires service due to the battery’s diminished ability to hold an electrical charge, Apple will replace your iPad for a service fee,” the gadget titan offered in a support document posted to its official Web site.
“Before you submit your iPad for service, it is important to sync your iPad with iTunes to back up your contacts, calendars, email, account settings, bookmarks, apps, etc.,” the company added. “Apple is not responsible for the loss of information when servicing your iPad.”
Beyond the annoyance of having to back-up and any all important or personal data before sending your beloved iPad to Cupertino, the replacement service will strike pockets to the tune of $99 USD (plus $6.95 USD for shipping) – which we suspect is considerably more than if Apple simply made devices that accepted replacement cells.
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