Apple waiting to probe exploding iPod claims

SOFTWARE giant Apple has said it is waiting to investigate claims that some of its iPods and iPhones have been exploding in the summer heat.

The European Commission’s consumer protection unit has already sent an information request to all member state contact points in the RAPEX system (Rapid Alert System) asking them for any information they have regarding any safety concerns involving iPods and iPhones.

The move came after reports in France, Holland, Britain and Sweden of problems with iPhones and iPods. In once case, reported in the La Provence paper in France last week, a teenager claimed his girlfriend’s iPhone exploded.

18-year-old Romain Kolega claimed his eye was injured in the incident.

The European Commission said it had invited Apple to share information regarding the recent press reports relating to Apple iPods and iPhones.

The commission stressed, however, that Apple “consider these are isolated incidents and there is not a general problem”.

“The commission takes safety issues very seriously,” the statement added.

Apple has sold 200 million iPods and 26 million iPhones so far, although it does not have figures for the amount of units sold here in Ireland.

There is also no information regarding any incidents of problems with iPhones or iPods here, and it is understood the company is awaiting receipt of the units involved in the alleged incidents in France and elsewhere.

Apple said: “We are aware of these reports and we are waiting to receive the iPhones from the customers. Until we have the full details, we don’t have anything further to add.”

Some doubt has been thrown on the alleged exploding iPhone incident in France amid claims the machine appears to still be working, albeit with a cracked screen.

It is understood Apple is still awaiting the device in this case, and in another alleged incident involving an 11-year-old schoolgirl in Liverpool, and her iPod Touch music player.