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Apple promises to replace iPhone batteries after shutdown complaints

The China Consumers Association has asked Apple to look into complaints that a considerable number of iPhone 6 and 6s handsets shut down without warning. Apple is reportedly looking into the matter.
Written by Cyrus Lee, Contributor

Apple China is already in communication with its US headquarters over recent complaints that iPhone 6 and iPhone 6s phones spontaneously close down even if more than half of the battery life remains, according to a NetEase report on Wednesday.

Apple China has promised to replace batteries for consumers who have filed complaints over the matter, according to the report, which failed to specify whether the replacements are free of charge.

On Tuesday, the government-backed China Consumers Association said it questioned Apple Inc over complaints that the automatic shutdowns occur when the models still have about 50 to 60 percent of their battery life remaining, even after an operating system upgrade. This may take place at a low or moderate temperature, and the handsets could only be turned on again after being plugged in, according to a letter sent by the consumer rights watchdog, as reported by Sina news on Tuesday.

Given the considerable amount of iPhone 6 and 6s users in the country and the relatively large number of complaints, the association requested Apple to clarify the reasons behind the issues, explain what it will do to correct the issues, explain if there are any problems with the battery, and give feedback regarding how it will handle relevant complaints.

The association didn't detail the number of users affected by the problem. But shutdown complaints were widely seen on Chinese social networks, with many users saying they'd encountered similar problems but failed to receive necessary help from Apple.

The association gave Apple 10 working days to reply to the queries.

The incidents follow Samsung pulling the plug on its Galaxy Note 7 smartphone last month after recurrent battery issues.

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