iPod scratching problems redux

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).

The bottom line appears to be that Apple is no longer offering assistance to users with scratched iPods, who should instead seek protective cases for their units or attempt use of a scratch remover -- both options are described in our iPod special report.

MacFixIt reader Edwin Sturman writes:

"I too have had a similar scratching experience. After less than a week I noticed scratching on my black iPod (5th Gen). What looked like smudge marks on the screen, were identified as scratches when I brought it into an apple store. I was given a phone number to call and was told that if I sent it back to Apple, it would be replaced. After a series of calls I was sent a box in which I returned it. In about a week or so it was returned to me just as I had sent it in, scratches and all. When I called to check on what I had to do to have it replaced, I was informed that they could do nothing to help me and that they do not replace iPods that had scratches, no matter how short a period I had it."

Keith Joyner adds:

"I have kept my black video iPod in the soft case provided by Apple since Christmas morning (it was a gift). I don't have any idea how it happened, but it now (1/11/06) has dozens of scratches over the entire face, including the screen. I have been very careful with it and can not explain how this happened, and it's only going to get worse."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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