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Apple willing to replace any smoking first-gen iPod Nanos

After the Japanese government opens an investigation into reports the 2005-era iPod Nano overheated in some cases, Apple says it will replace affected units.

Tom Krazit Former Staff writer, CNET News
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The first-generation iPod Nano, first released in September 2005. Apple

If you're still hanging on to your first-generation iPod Nano, and you've noticed it has a tendency to smoke too much, Apple is willing to replace the unit.

The company issued a statement Tuesday after reports out of Japan that some first-generation iPod Nanos, first released in 2005, have had battery problems that cause them to give off smoke or spark in rare cases. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry is investigating three instances of iPod overheating that resulted in minor burns.

Quoth the Apple: "Apple has determined that in very rare cases batteries in first generation iPod nanos sold between September 2005 and December 2006 can overheat causing failure and deformation of the iPod nano. Apple has received very few reports of such incidents (less than 0.001 percent of first generation iPod nano units), which have been traced back to a single battery supplier. There have been no reports of serious injuries or property damage, and no reports of incidents for any other iPod nano model.

Any first generation iPod nano customers who have experienced their battery overheating should contact AppleCare for a replacement. Any other customers who have concerns about their first generation iPod nano battery should also contact AppleCare."

The original slim iPod Nanos gave way to the third-generation fatties in September 2007. One rumor making the rounds is that Apple plans to bring back the long and sleek design from the first-generation during its usual September iPod event.