Apple has announced that the company will begin replacing a “small percentage” of defective iPhone 5 batteries, according to CNET. Though the company has not publicly stated that the devices have any hardware malfunction that causes battery-related issues, the replacement will come free of charge if certain criteria are met to show that the battery is defective. In the past there have been user complaints regarding battery-life problems with the iPhone 5, but this is the first time Apple has offered free replacements of the battery for the older iPhone.
Who Qualifies
The affected iPhones were sold between September 2012 and January 2013, and Apple has a web form where customers can enter their phone’s serial number to determine whether it is eligible for a free replacement. While the program does not extend the phone’s warranty, it does cover defective batteries purchased within two years or through March 1, 2015, whichever provides more coverage. Those who already purchased a replacement battery after their original warranty expired can contact Apple for a refund.
This battery replacement program comes in the wake of the iPhone 5’s similar sleep/wake button issues reported earlier this year. According to 9to5Mac, repair services are available through Apple retail stores, AppleCare, and authorized providers, though it’s unclear how long replacing the battery will take. Prior to bringing in the phone, the company urges users to back up their information, turn off Find My Phone, and erase all settings.
The replacement program is currently available in the United States and China, and will open to other countries on August 29.
Will you be bringing in your iPhone 5 for a free battery replacement?
Image courtesy of Flickr
[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[/cf]