No - the authz service center does not reapir "no parts" - but for a whopping 6500 they will exchange my iPod that I have lovingly cared for with someone else's that has done god knows what with.

In all fairness - this seems to be Apple's policiy in states as well.

I have found a few internet sites in US that repair, my email has gone unanswered. Seems like they want me to send it in (from thailand, no way!) and they repair.

These gadgets are way too expensive - I like to have tons of music at my finger tips. Given the pricey fix and DRM - don't buy Apple.

These gadgets are way too expensive - I like to have tons of music at my finger tips. Given the pricey fix and DRM - don't buy Apple.

If you can't figure out to purchase AppleCare for your iPod for $40 (or less, if you look on eBay or other venues), then maybe you should not be using one - enjoy the plethora of hassles of generic, rip-off, and low-quality MP3 players, that barely are able to play music, if you can figure out the interface (or the software on the PC side - or good luck getting them to work on the Mac).

Anyway, acquiring an iPod is easy. Caring for it is just as easy, if you understand your options. Once busted, your repair options are a replacement (immediate) or repair (if you insist) in which case you have to wait. This is no different from the USA, as the regional and local Apple Stores operate the same way -- either replace your iPod with one from the store, or send it in for repair (in which case, depending on the repair), you would just get a reconditioned item back). This is standard WORLDWIDE policy, and results in the fastest turn-around for a customer.

I'd be interested to speculate what your repair options for a brand-X or Brand-Thai or Brand-China MP3 player in Thailand are? Have you considered that. before spouting off how bad Apple is?

Also, regarding DRM - do not spread any more misinformation - the iPod does not implement DRM. You can rip music from any source material (i.e. CDs) via iTunes to your iPod, and the music is free and unemcumbered by DRM. This is a common misconception by people that don't bother to research their 'arguments'. In fact, only *some* music from the iTunes Music Store is DRM protected, though you can always purchase a DRM free version for $1.29 (30 cents over regular prices). If you previously purchased protected tracks, iTunes will allow you to upgrade your library automatically to DRM-free content. So, in summary, it is not the iPod (or even iTunes) which gives you any DRM hassles.

Got any other 'issues' ?