Battery dead? Here have a new iPad
Reports yesterday have revealed that Apple’s battery replacement service for the iPad will actually consist of them replacing the device with a new one (or a refurb at least) for a service fee rather than them replacing the battery.
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.
Why is this such news you ask? Well it differs from that of the iPhone whereby they state they will service your iPhone for a fee.
If your iPhone requires service only because the battery’s ability to hold an electrical charge has diminished, Apple will service your iPhone for a service fee.
The thing is, in New Zealand, out-of-warranty battery repairs can be a nightmare to deal with. We know from iPhone experience that we can’t just take our devices to an Authorised Service Provider [read: MagnumMac, Ubertec etc] and have them resolve the issue like they can in the States with the Apple Stores, it is a lot harder here and you generally get sent from pillar to post trying to get it sorted and we may have that same experience again.
As the iPad is considered a “mobile device” and the 3G version will have cellular connectivity it’ll be interesting to see who are authorised to service the iPad. The iPhone is only officially serviceable by MobileFoneRepair in New Zealand and if the iPad takes the same route then the prices could be high, but given that this is an out-of-warranty repair it may open the door for others to repair at a lower cost. One thing though, if it is tied down to MFR doing it officially then they more than likely they won’t be repairing it, they will replace it (probably with a refurb model) and at quite a hefty price tag, although it would be less than purchasing a new one .
On the other hand, the process for replacing iPad batteries is the same as that of the iPod range (incl. iPod touch), whereby they replace the unit, so will it follow that process exactly? The Wi-Fi version is after-all (in some people’s opinion) just a giant iPod touch and if it does follow this process it will allow Authorised Service Providers to replace the iPad for a service fee.
[Update] We have emailed MagnumMac to see if they know what the process will be yet. If/when we get a response we will let you know. OK, We have spoken with MagnumMac and as yet they still do not know anything. It is not surprising really, Apple keep their cards very very close to their chest. MagnumMac have said as soon as they know they will be in touch.
Below is the full FAQ’s for the battery replacement service in the U.S and as you can see it is very similar to that of the iPod range.
U.S Battery Replacement Service – iPad: Frequently Asked Questions
What is iPad Battery Replacement Service?
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.Note: Your iPad is not eligible for Battery Replacement Service if the product has been damaged, for example, as 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. Please review Apple’s Repair Terms and Conditions for further details.
How much does it cost?
The service costs $99, plus $6.95 shipping. The total cost is $105.95 per unit.
All fees are in U.S. dollars and are subject to local tax.How do I arrange iPad Battery Replacement Service?
Battery replacement service may be arranged via your local Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or you can contact Apple Technical Support. Please do not send any accessories with your iPad.Will the data on my iPad be preserved?
No. You will receive a replacement iPad that will not contain any of your personal data. 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.How long will it take to receive my replacement iPad?
If you arrange service by calling Apple Technical Support, you can expect service to be completed within approximately one week from the time you send your iPad to Apple.
Had to have your iPhone or iPod Battery replaced out-of-warranty? Let us know your experience in the comments below.
