Apple Launches Smart Battery Case Replacement Program For Some iPhone Models

Apple has launched a new program that will replace some smart battery cases with charging problems.

In a support page, Cupertino tech giant Apple has announced that it is launching a new smart battery case replacement program. With this, Apple will, for free, replace smart battery cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR based on a few conditions.

The tech giant found that some smart battery cases exhibit at least one of the two problematic behaviors. First, these battery cases will not charge, or charge intermittently, when plugged into a power source like a wall outlet. Second, the battery cases will not charge an iPhone, or at least charge it intermittently.

Apple explained that these behaviors, problematic as they might be, do not indicate a safety issue, and shouldn't be a cause for worry or concern. The smart battery cases that exhibit such problematic behavior were made between January and October last year. Those who own such a battery case are entitled to receive a smart battery case replacement free of charge.

Eligibility

Apple says it will only replace smart battery cases for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR if they were manufactured during the aforementioned dates and they are showing the above problems. Smart battery cases for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max are not eligible for the free replacement program. Non-Apple battery cases aren't eligible, too.

Those who own an impacted iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR smart battery case can have their accessories replaced either by contacting any Apple Authorized Service Provide (AASP) near them, or by making an appointment at the nearest Apple Retail Store.

Those who have impacted battery cases but don't have time to get them replaced, however, will not need to hurry. Apple said the replacement program covers impacted battery cases for 2 years after they were first sold.

Smart battery cases that are submitted for replacement will be examined prior to any service so that they can be verified for eligibility. Once verified, Apple will provide affected consumers with new battery cases. Affected battery cases will be disposed of in an “environmentally friendly way,” the company said.