I noticed Apple offers an extended 2 year warranty that I can upgrade to within the first year for $69. I was wondering if it would be worth it as I've heard so many complaints about the battery being worthless after the first year. Although all that it seems to cover is battery life and device defects, no drop insurance. I really need drop insurance too. But considering that sending it to Apple for a new battery is over $100, i figured i'd save money by going with the extended warranty instead.

What about do-it-yourself battery replacement kits for iPods? Anyone with any experience with them? I've seen them as cheap as $30.

thanks for input.
-nic

Well, you can get a 3 year plans from Best Buy for $50. I'm not sure $70 for 2 years is worth it if you are ONLY getting it for the battery. However, no one will deny, that if you just feel it will break (hdd, etc), then you can't beat Apple's customer service if you don't mind paying the extra cash.

unfortunetly, I didn't buy it from best buy... hmm...

this is what i'm also thinking: i bought the iPod slightly used from someone. So, I don't have any receipts from an official apple retailer (unless Amazon marketplace counts). However, upon receiving the unit I registered it with Apple and then they throw up this offer for the extended warranty. So I'm thinking that if the device gives out (like the hard drive, which really wouldn't surprise me), if I have the extended warranty they won't give me crap about proof-of-purchase, where as if I didn't they might give me crap (like so many other retailers).

What are people's experiences with apple? I've heard they offer good support service, but i'm kinda worried about the entire proof-of-purchase thing I guess.

Proof of purchase isnt a big deal for apple. 99% of the time a POP is recorded at the time of purchase (apple store, web, reseller, doesnt matter), but there are some that never are. So at that point, the POP is based off of original registration date. The APP from apple is a great plan, and is $59US, $47US EDU discount, (not $69). I would go for it, because you not only get extended hardware coverage, but phone support if you ever need it. Just remember that you cannot purchase the APP if you live in Florida, Wyoming, or Washington as they are not valid and the plan is up for review in each of those states.

cool, thanks for the info. I think i'm going to go for it.

ive recently ordered a 30gb ipod for my birthday, took the warranty out just in case.

Yes, I purchased the extended warranty as I think it is worth it if anything does happen within the two years.

dL