Continued iPod scratching problems

A few months after our extensive coverage of issues with excessive cosmetic scratching on iPod nanos (particularly black models), users continue to report high susceptibility to blemishes on various new iPod models, including the black fifth-generation iPod (with video).

MacFixit reader David Sens writes:

"I received my brand new black 30 GB iPod with video on Friday. On Sunday I went for my first outing with the new iPod. I placed in my pants pocket as I have with previous iPods being very careful not to place anything else in that pocket, and went about my business. When I returned home about 2 hours later, I was shocked to see that the acrylic faceplate had literally hundreds of tiny scratches. Most of the scratches were on the screen area. It is so badly scratched as to actually distort the video image on the screen.

"I read about similar problems with the black Nano but I never expected to have a problem with mine. It certainly seemed that this significant scratching after such a brief period was due to a faulty product, so I called Apple Tech support. I assumed that they would acknowledge the problem and send me a replacement. After explaining what happened to a tech support representative, he stated he couldn't help me and transfered me to another representative. After waiting on hold for nearly 40 minutes, I spoke to a representative by the name of "Kim" who stated that she was sorry that I had a problem but that Apple will not repair or replace an iPod with any cosmetic damage what so ever. She did ask me why I hadn't put it in the ill fitting case that Apple provided. This case renders the iPod virtually useless as it is incredibly difficult to remove the iPod. She did suggest that I purchase a third party screen repair kit, however she was not willing to help me further.

"Prior to this iPod, I've never had a piece of electronic equipment that scratched this easily. Not previous iPods, cell phones or Pocket PC's. I'm very unhappy with this situation."

If you are experiencing problems with excessive scratching on fifth-generation iPods (with video), please let us know.

You may also want to check out this section of our iPod nano special report, which includes several tips for avoiding and repairing scratches, including:

• Leave the clear film on
• Using another clear screen or fishing license holder
• Using scratch removers
• and more...

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