Of interest for anyone who still uses their 1st generation iPod Nano, Apple has launched a worldwide replacement program for models manufactured between September '05 and December '06 citing precautionary concerns over the batteries. It's not the first Apple product to see such a replacement program, but for anyone who qualifies it may be a welcome move by the Cupertino company.

Apple states the following:

"Dear iPod nano owner, 

Apple has determined that, in very rare cases, the battery in the iPod nano (1st generation) may overheat and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006. 

This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. While the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood increases as the battery ages. 

Apple recommends that you stop using your iPod nano (1st gen) and follow the process noted below to order a replacement unit, free of charge."