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Brilliant_Rock
- Joined
- Sep 10, 2004
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I heard about this on the radio this morning and decided to do a little research to find out what its all about. If you purchased a 1st, 2nd or 3rd generation iPod before May 31, 2004 (not a mini or photo or U2), Apple has admitted fault to their poor battery life. I personally need to check out exactly when i purchased mine because my battery SUCKS!
Tentatively settling a lawsuit that had tarnished the golden image of its iPod music players, Apple Computer Inc. has agreed to give $50 vouchers and extended warranties to customers who have had problems with the lifespan of their batteries.
As many as 2 million people may be affected by poor battery life in some older iPods, which could translate to as much as $100 million worth of givebacks for Apple, Eric Gibbs, a San Francisco lawyer representing the consumers, said Thursday.
However, analysts said they believe the financial impact on Apple''s bottom line could be far less because a majority of iPod owners probably would not file claims. Also, scores of customers may not still have their older iPods because many routinely ditch their players for newer versions, said Gene Munster, an analyst at Piper Jaffray & Co.
Nevertheless, Gibbs, who filed the lawsuit in December 2003, said the settlement is a big win for consumers
"We think it''s an excellent settlement," he said. "Affected consumers ... are going to be entitled to a replacement battery, a new iPod or a $50 voucher. "
Apple declined comment about the settlement.
Since the Cupertino firm started selling its first iPods in the fall of 2001, the sleek music players have become a huge hit, dominating the portable digital music market and giving a big boost to Apple''s revenue.
But complaints about Apple''s promise of up to 10 hours of battery life also started circulating among consumers who claimed the juice in their iPods ran out much quicker before needing a recharge.
In December 2003, eight people filed a lawsuit claiming Apple had failed to live up to its claims.
Last month, a San Mateo County Superior Court judge approved a tentative settlement agreement that covers the first three generations of iPods. The third-generation iPod was discontinued last July.
According to the settlement, affected owners of third-generation iPods will be able to replace the battery or the player or to receive a $50 coupon that can be used for purchases at Apple''s retail or online stores.
Owners of first- and second-generation iPods have the option of receiving the $50 coupon or a $25 cash payment.
Anyone who files a claim must have a receipt to qualify.
A Web site has been established at www.girardgibbs.com, which contains information about the settlement and links to download claim forms.
Although the hearing for the final approval of the settlement agreement is scheduled for Aug. 25, Gibbs said affected iPod owners should send their claim forms as soon as possible.
Should you be a part of this lawsuit?
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