Apple is replacing faulty Ipod Nano batteries

SELLER OF SHINY TOYS Apple is offering to replace batteries in its first generation Ipod Nano music players over fears that they might get too hot and possibly catch fire.

Affected Ipod Nano units were sold between September 2005 and December 2006 and are first generation models.

"Apple has determined that, in very rare cases, the battery in the iPod nano (1st generation) may overheat and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006," said the firm in an advisory. "This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. While the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood increases as the battery ages."

Users are advised to stop using their Ipod now, so rip it out of your pocket if you are doing so. Apple is offering to replace the unit free of charge and users can do that via Apple's web site.

It should take six weeks for Apple to send out a replacement gadget, and it warned that if you have a personalised Ipod you won't be getting one back in the post. The company warned that you should backup to Itunes before sending your Ipod Nano off. µ