Apple Extends iMac Warranty To Handle Video, Power Problems

The warranty extension applies only to iMac G5s sold between September 2004, when the line debuted, and June, 2005, that have scrambled or distorted video, no video, or no power. The affected models feature 17- and 20-inch displays with 1.6GHz and 1.8GHz G5 processors.

iMacs come standard with a year's limited warranty, but the extension will cover repairs to eligible systems "for up to two years from the original date of purchase, even if your iMac G5 is out of warranty," Apple said in the announcement posted on its Web site.

Bad power capacitors have plagued many iMac G5 owners, who haven't hesitated to complain on Apple's support discussions sites. The news of the warranty extension was especially welcomed there.

"This means that Apple is now accepting/recognizing that there is a problem with the iMac G5," said one poster, while on another thread, a user identified as "David Barnes" wrote "Good for Apple."

This isn't the first power-related issue that's forced Apple to make good to its customers. In May, the Cupertino, Calif.-based computer maker recalled faulty batteries on many of its iBook and PowerBook laptops.