Apple has offered free replacements for eligible handsets, after finding a defect in some of its iPhone 5 batteries.
The tech giant issued a recall for some iPhone 5s that were shipped to retailers with batteries that drain quickly, and need to be charged more frequently. The Cupertino-based company will replace affected batteries at no additional cost.
The iPhones with faulty batteries were sold between September 2012 and January 2013, one of the earliest batches after the release of the handset. According to Apple's website, a "very small percentage" of devices were involved in the recall. The company has created a serial number checker to help customers identify defective pieces.
An eligible handset must be fully operational, and damages like cracked screens can make it difficult to replace the battery, even if the serial number falls on the replacement list. The company said other damages must be resolved before Apple changes the battery for free, which may bring on other costs, 9to5Mac notes.
Apple service centers or retail stores will carry out consumers' request for replacements. Before handing over the handset for a replacement, owners must be sure to backup the data via iTunes or iCloud, turn off Find My iPhone, and reset the phone by accessing Settings > General > Reset > Erase all Content and Settings.
The replacement program extends through March 1, 2015 and does not alter the iPhone 5's warranty. The recall began in the U.S. and China last week, and will allow iPhone 5 owners in other countries to get their replacements starting August 29.
If the consumers have already paid for the iPhone 5 defect, Apple says it will refund the cost of the repair associated with this recall.
This is not the first time Apple has addressed a fault with its flagship models. In June, the company recalled some of its old USB iPhone chargers due to overheating problems. Also, the company addressed a faulty power button issue on iPhone 5 units in April by repairing the fault for free and refunding to those who already paid for it.
