Apple offers new iPad if battery dies

Apple has taken the surprise decision to offer new iPads to its customers if the battery needs replacing.

The company's other products such as the iPhone are renowned for making batteries inaccessible due to the flush plastic casing. This has stopped customers from changing batteries themselves and forced them to send the product back to Apple and pay a fee.

However, with the much anticipated tablet, Apple has made the unexpected move of offering its customers a completely new product instead of just a replacement battery.

"If your iPad requires service due to the battery's diminished ability to hold an electrical charge, Apple will replace your iPad for a service fee," said a posting on the support section of Apple's website.

"The service costs $99 (66), plus $6.95 shipping. The total cost is $105.95 per unit."

Although it may seem a bonus to get a completely new device, the support page also warns no personal data will be transferred over so customers would have to backup all their contacts, calendars and settings before sending it back.