Possible defect in iPod Nano model

After a Japanese man’s iPod nano caught fire while recharging (see here), officials are investigating a possible defect in the MA099J/A iPod nano model. Approximately 425,000 iPod nanos with identical model numbers have been shipped between September 2005 and September 2006. Fortunately, no one has been harmed due to the fire, although a possible defect in the iPod nano model is being investigated.

Apple has not denied any of the statements, although has refused to comment further. Japan is requesting that Apple look into the problem and report back to the Japanese government once an explanation was found.

Lithium-ion batteries, used in many electronics such as laptops, digital cameras, and iPod nanos, have been known to be the cause of many fires in electronics and recalls across the world for quite while. Many of the fires reported are due to overheating incidents, which is a possibility for this incident as well, although it is still under investigation.