Apple's new notebook offers 8 full hours of work time on one charge

Jan 15, 2009 15:55 GMT  ·  By
Comparison between conventional laptop batteries and the 17-inch MacBook Pro's battery
   Comparison between conventional laptop batteries and the 17-inch MacBook Pro's battery

In a knowledge base article, Apple outlines the methods for users to replace the battery in the new 17-inch MacBook Pro  (Early 2009). The unibody notebook is advertised by Apple as sporting the longest lasting battery in its family. Nevertheless...

“The battery in your MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) is a consumable item, which means it will require replacement at the end of its useful life,” Apple points out. “A replacement battery can be purchased directly from Apple. The price of the replacement battery includes installation of your new battery and environmentally responsible disposal of your depleted battery,” the company says.

So, how much does battery replacement cost? Well, Apple says it depends on where you live, offering this little chart (below) to guide yourself with. Should you opt to use the Apple Mail-in service, you can expect your newly equipped Pro to arrive at your doorstep  3 - 4 business days after the shipment of the unit to the depot. If you wish to have the job done ASAP, Apple encourages customers to make an appointment at your local Apple retail store. One of the company's technicians will do it right there, on the spot.

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“In the course of a battery replacement, the data on your hard disk drive or solid state drive should not be affected,” the Mac maker assures customers. “However, please make sure you back up your data or other information stored on your system before submitting it for service,” Apple advises, claiming it is “not responsible for any damage to or loss of any applications, data, or other information stored on your MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009).” In fact, to rid itself of any potential lawsuit, Apple says “You should back up your data on a regular basis.” Before signing up for a battery replacement, customers are also advised to go through the Apple’s Repair Terms and Conditions.

“Apple warrants the replacement battery against manufacturing defects for one year from the date of service,” the same document shows. Users are also urged to note that a battery that has died from natural causes – by ending its life-cycle – is not covered under warranty.

Head over to Apple's Support section here for more information.