iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 Battery Exchange Program
Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ is intended to provide more information about Apple's voluntary recall of certain lithium ion rechargeable batteries that are used with 12-inch iBook G4 and 12-inch PowerBook and 15-inch PowerBook G4 computers. Apple has initiated an exchange program and will provide customers with a replacement battery, free of charge.

Which batteries is Apple recalling?
The recalled batteries are only used in 12-inch iBook G4, 12-inch PowerBook G4, and 15-inch PowerBook G4 computers and have model numbers A1061, A1078, and A1079 and serial numbers that begin with HQ441 through HQ507 and 3X446 through 3X510. To view the model and serial numbers located on the bottom of the battery, you must remove the battery from the computer. The battery serial number is printed in black or dark grey lettering beneath a barcode. Please use the chart below to identify the battery model and serial numbers that apply to your iBook or PowerBook.

I have one of the recalled batteries. Should I stop using it?
Apple urges you to stop using your battery and order a replacement battery immediately. If you continue to use your battery, do not leave it unattended and check for signs of overheating.

Can I use my computer without the battery in it?
Yes, once you've removed the affected battery, just plug in the AC adapter to power the computer.

I have an iBook G3 and recently bought a replacement battery for it. Could I have one of the recalled batteries?
Since the currently shipping batteries are compatible with the 12-inch iBook G3, Apple recommends that you check your battery's model and serial number to see if you may have received one of the affected batteries. Please check the battery for model number A1061 and serial numbers that begin with HQ441 through HQ507.

If I received a replacement battery from the 15-inch PowerBook G4 Battery Exchange Program (2004), should I check to see if it is affected by this recall?
Apple recommends that you check your battery's model and serial number to see if you may have received one of the affected batteries. Please check for model number A1078 and serial numbers that begin with 3X446 through 3X509.

I have a 12-inch PowerBook G4 and the battery serial number begins with HQ instead of 3X. Do I need to replace this battery?
No, only batteries that begin with 3X446 through 3X510 should be replaced.

Will Apple contact me if I have one of the recalled batteries?
Apple will notify customers by posting a notice on our website, sending an email or a letter to iBook and PowerBook G4 owners who have registered their systems or purchased through our Apple on-line store, and providing a point-of-sale notice to our retail partners. We encourage all customers to check their battery serial number even if they do not hear directly from Apple.

How do I get a replacement battery?
To order your replacement battery, visit www.apple.com/support/batteryexchange. You will be asked for the serial number of your iBook or PowerBook G4, the serial number of your battery and a ship to address. After serial number verification, a new battery will be shipped to you free of charge. When you receive the replacement battery, please use the same shipping packaging and included prepaid shipping label to return the recalled battery to Apple. If you do not have access to the website listed above and you are in the United States, please call Apple at 800-275-2273 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central time, seven days a week, for further assistance. For other countries, please use our contact page to find the appropriate support number.

Where do I find the serial number of my iBook or PowerBook?
The PowerBook serial number is located on the side of the battery well in the top left corner. The iBook serial number is located underneath the keyboard. Or, you can use Apple System Profiler to confirm your serial number.

Where do I find the serial number of my battery?
The model and serial numbers are located on the label on the bottom of the battery, and can be viewed by removing the battery from the computer. The serial number is printed in black or dark grey lettering beneath a barcode.

What should I do if I have a battery that shows signs of overheating?
If your battery shows signs of overheating such as discoloration or deformity, stop using the battery immediately and contact Apple at 800-275-2273 for special instructions.

Can I go to an Apple Retail store to exchange my battery?
The battery exchange program is being conducted through the battery exchange website at www.apple.com/support/batteryexchange. If you do not have access to the website, please call Apple at 800-275-2273 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., central time, seven days a week, for further assistance.

Can I take my recalled battery to an Authorized Apple Service Provider (AASP) and exchange it for a new battery?
The iBook and PowerBook G4 Battery Exchange Program is being conducted through the battery exchange website at www.apple.com/support/batteryexchange. If your country is not listed on the website, please contact Apple via phone or see your local service provider, reseller or distributor for assistance in processing your battery replacement order.

How long will it take to receive a replacement battery from Apple?
It will take approximately 3 to 5 business days for your replacement battery to arrive. Shipping time may vary due to availability.

Do I have to send in my recalled battery before I can receive a replacement battery?
No, Apple will send you the replacement battery first and then you will send Apple the recalled battery.

What should I do with the recalled battery?
When you receive the replacement battery, please follow the enclosed instructions and use the same shipping packaging and included prepaid shipping label to return the recalled battery to Apple. You do not have to pay the postage to return the battery.

I've never had any problems with my battery. Should I have it replaced?
Yes. In the interest of safety, all recalled batteries should be replaced. Please check your battery to see if it qualifies for the battery exchange program.

I have more than one of the recalled batteries. Will Apple replace all my recalled batteries?
If your batteries have the designated serial numbers, Apple will provide you with replacement batteries, free of charge. You can order up to three batteries to replace your current ones. If you have more than three batteries, please contact Apple at 800-275-2273. Please have the serial number of your iBook or PowerBook and the serial numbers of your batteries ready to provide to the phone agent.

I represent a group with several of the recalled batteries. Is it necessary for each user to contact Apple separately?
Apple suggests that you call your Apple account manager to facilitate the battery replacements for a large group. Of course, individuals can use the Apple website to obtain the replacement batteries.