Apple admits iPhone 5 battery flaw and issues recall

Apple has admitted some iPhone 5 handsets were sold with damaged batteries which lost too early and has launched a free replacement scheme to resolve the issue.

Apple said in a statement that a “very small percentage” of iPhone 5 handsets had battery problems. The affected devices “may suddenly experience shorter battery life or need to be charged more frequently”, it said.

Customers in the US and China can have their batteries replaced now, while the program will commence in Europe on August 29.

Those taking their phone to an Apple shop to have their battery replaced are being advised by the company to backup their data to iTunes or iCloud first, turn off the Find my iPhone feature and erase all data.

Those handsets with cracked screens may need to be repaired before the battery can be replaced, says Apple, and the owner will be charged for that service. 

Source: The Telegraph