Apple Inc. has announced a worldwide replacement program for some of its iPhone 5 models, over a potential defect in the sleep/wake button. The replacement process will be available in the US and Canada from Friday, while it will come to other countries on 2 May.
The Cupertino giant said in a statement that the sleep/wake button of the iPhone 5 models manufactured through March 2013 may be faulty and had announced replacements free of charge. The program covers iPhone 5 models for two years, after the first retail sale of the unit.
However, only certain iPhone 5 models, with a qualifying serial number, can claim replacement for the button. One can check if your device qualifies for the free service on the company's support site. https://ssl.apple.com/support/iphone5-sleepwakebutton/
Qualified devices can be sent to Apple Repair Center in two ways - carry-in or mail-in. The replacement process will take approximately 4-6 days.
Carry-in
- Bring your iPhone 5 to a participating provider - Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.
- Your iPhone will be examined to verify eligibility, and then sent to the local Apple Repair Center.
- You will be notified when your iPhone is ready for pickup.
Note: If you require a loaner during the time that your iPhone is being serviced, participating Apple Retail Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers will have iPhone 5 models (16GB only) available.
Mail-in
- Call Apple and request a postage paid box to send your iPhone to the local Apple Repair Center.
- Your iPhone will be examined by the Repair Center to verify eligibility.
- After it is serviced, your iPhone will be returned to you by mail.
Things You Should do before Giving Your Smartphone for Servicing
- Back up your data to iTunes or iCloud
- Turn off Find my iPhone
- Erase data and settings in Settings > General > Reset > Erase all Content and Settings
- Remove any case or cover
- Upgrade to iOS 7 after the sleep/wake button mechanism is replaced.
(Ed: VP)
