Apple Unveils New Exploding iPod
THERE are all manner of applications for your iPhone, and Ellie Stanborough, 11, tells of one that causes your Apple gadget to make a “hissing noise” and go “pop“.
But the allegation is that this is no official Apple app, and the firm did attempt to “silence a father and daughter with a gagging order after the child’s iPod music player exploded and the family sought a refund from the company.”
The story goes that Ellie and her family could have refund only if they signed a document promising never to disclose the story of their exploding iPod, presumably because then everyone would want one.
Ken Stanborough, 47, from Liverpool, tells us that when the iPod was dropped:
“It made a hissing noise. I could feel it getting hotter in my hand, and I thought I could see vapour… within 30 seconds there was a pop, a big puff of smoke and it went 10ft in the air.”
Who doesn’t want one? This is the shot in the arm Apple needed, right? Sales will soar higher than an iPod. Mr Stanborough alerted Apple, and received a reply:
Mr Stanborough should “agree that you will keep the terms and existence of this settlement agreement completely confidential”, and that any breach of confidentiality “may result in Apple seeking injunctive relief, damages and legal costs against the defaulting persons or parties”.
Far enough. But Mr Stanborough refused to sign the agreement. Indeed, dear reader, the rule is – as ever – do not sign anything.
As for iPods – well, an 11-year-old was never going to want it for very long and would soon cave the next verison of the iPod, then the next, then the next.
It might be that Ellie should thank Apple for saving her the shame of having an old gadget a year from now…
Posted: 3rd, August 2009 | In: Money Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
