Apple to skip repair if iPad battery runs low

A discovery in Apple's iPad Battery Replacement Service has confirmed that the company will address iPad battery issues aggressively. Rather than attempt to replace the battery if it loses an adequate charge, as it does with iPhones, the company will charge $99 but replace the tablet altogether with a new model. Those who have to ship the iPad instead of visiting a store with stock on hand will also pay a $7 shipping fee and should expect it to be completed within a week.

As sometimes occurs with other Apple handhelds, existing data won't be preserved. The company tells customers to sync with iTunes, if possible, to backup their iPads' contents before they trade the devices in for replacements.

No reasons have been given as to why Apple needs a full replacement, though the largely sealed-in design makes it unlikely that a technician could simply replace the battery on the spot or send it into a regular depot without some risk to the hardware.

by MacNN Staff