New Delhi: Apple has launched a replacement program for any users affected by a broken sleep/wake button on the iPhone 5. The fix-it program has gone live in the U.S. and Canada.
The problem is with what Apple calls a “a small percentage” of iPhone 5s made after March 2013 that have faulty mechanisms that can lead to a problems with the switch, thus preventing the device from being turned off and on or locked in the usual way.
To register for the problem, you need to enter your device's serial number at a website that Apple has specially set up for those dealing with this issue. And once you qualify then you'll be able to drop your phone off at your nearest Apple Repair Center to have it fixed.
Since the process takes anywhere from four to six days to fix it up, Apple suggests users to back up your data prior to starting the repair process, in addition to erasing all of the content and settings on your device.
"Note: If your iPhone 5 has any damage such as a cracked screen which impairs the replacement of the sleep/wake button, that issue will need to be resolved prior to the sleep/wake button replacement. In some cases, there may be a cost associated with the repair," reads Apple's site.
Also, if you don't want to carry your smartphone over to an Apple Repair Center then you can also choose the "mail it in" option. In this option users will be offered a postage-paid box from Apple directly. Drop in the smartphone, ship it off to the Apple Repair Center, and wait for it to be returned via mail.
“Apple will offer the service free of charge to iPhone 5 customers with models that exhibit this issue and have a qualifying serial number,” spokeswoman Teresa Brewer said in a statement on Friday.
Since iPhone glitches are rare, the company rarely initiates large-scale repair programs for its products.
