There are still a few weeks to go before the official launch of the new Apple iPad but Apple has already posted information on a battery replacement programme should anyone find that the battery on their new iPad, which they haven’t even got yet, doesn’t work properly.
I can completely understand why Apple are doing that, you know, making the info clear now, Apple products have had battery problems before so the decision to launch the battery replacement programme well in advance of the iPad launch is Apple’s way of staying one step ahead of their customers and of course the watch dogs. Nice one!
So what does this battery replacement service involve? First of all, it isn’t really a battery replacement service it’s actually an iPad replacement service as Apple don’t just change the battery, they replace the whole thing.
Apple says that “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 service will cost you $99 plus $6.95 shipping which seems a pretty good deal for what amounts to a new iPad but conditions are attached so don’t think you can wangle yourself a new tablet for anything other than a faulty battery.
“Your iPad is not eligible for Battery Replacement Service if the product has been damaged, for example, as a result of an accident, liquid contact, disassembly, unauthorized service or unauthorized modifications, or if the product is not operating correctly as a result of a component failure” Apple adds.
If you do find you have to use the service, don’t expect your replacement iPad to come back with any of your personal information and settings intact, Apple has said the replacement one won’t contain any of your personal data and are warning people to back up what they don’t want to lose.
“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. Apple is not responsible for the loss of information when servicing your iPad” say Apple.
You can arrange the Battery Replacement Service by calling Apple Technical Support, by taking the iPad to your local Apple Retail Store, or to an authorised Apple Service provider. You should get your replacement iPad back within about a week.
