Ongoing support for Japanese tragedy

Apple is continuing to offer free repairs for Mac and other Apple equipment damaged by the earthquake and tsunami that ravaged large parts of eastern Japan. A page on the company's Japanese web site offers "special servicing" for Macs, iPhones, iPod Touches and iPads that were damaged in the quake free of charge until June 30th, though a disclaimer warns that the offer could be withdrawn at any time.

The company advises customers in the affected areas to call local retail stores and schedule drop-off of the damaged equipment for repair, in preference to using the normal online service-scheduling page. Free pick-up and delivery can also be arranged if available. The affected areas include the Nagano prefecture and the Tohoku region. Non-Touch iPods are excluded from the offer. The page warns that some services may not be fully operational at all times, such as telephone support in English, and that hold times may vary depending on demand.

The Great East Japan Earthquake struck the region almost exactly two months ago in the early-morning hours about 44 miles off the Oshika peninsula. In addition to the damage caused by the earthquake itself, the resulting tsunami flooded many areas as far as six miles inland. So far, authorities have reported 15,000 dead, with many thousands still missing or injured.

The quake also severely damaged the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing a severe nuclear accident and radiation leakage that is ongoing. Worldwide relief efforts continue, including a donation page set up on iTunes. Apple had previously sent a memo offering support to Apple Japan employees and their families from CEO Steve Jobs and the executive team.

by MacNN Staff