How do I replace the battery in the iPod touch models?

If it is out of warranty, Apple once could replace the battery in your iPod touch for a cost of US$79 plus US$6.95 shipping.

However, a variety of less expensive third-party battery replacement services also are available. Some sell "longer runtime than stock" batteries for those brave souls willing to attempt self-installation as well.

Identification Help

If you are not sure which iPod touch you have, one way to externally identify these models is via a unique -- but very difficult to read -- model number engraved toward the bottom on the back of the device. Specifically, the original iPod touch is A1213, the 2nd Gen and 8 GB configuration of the 3rd Gen both are A1288, the 32 GB and 64 GB 3rd Gen is A1318, and the 4th Gen and "4.5" Gen both are A1367.

The iPod touch models also can be differentiated by serial number with Everyi.com's Ultimate iLookup. Like the model number, the serial number is engraved toward the bottom on the back of the device and also is available when plugged into a computer on the "Summary" tab in a modern version of iTunes (among other methods that are less likely to be useful if the battery is dead).

In addition to its serial number, Everyi.com's Ultimate iLookup feature can identify the iPod touch models by EMC number and order number (referred to as "Model" from within the iOS), as well.

Battery Replacement Video Instructions

Regardless of generation, the battery in each iPod touch is both glued and soldered to the logicboard and all are extremely challenging to replace. Professional installation is recommended.

Nevertheless, for very tech savvy individuals, there are a variety of videos available that cover battery replacement for the iPod touch line. Videos from PowerBookMedic [no longer online] and RepairsUniverse that address battery replacement for the original iPod touch as well as the iPod touch 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen follow for your convenience:

Original iPod touch (A1213)

iPod touch 2nd Gen and 8 GB 3rd Gen (A1288)

iPod touch 3rd Gen 32 GB & 64 GB (A1318)

Unofficial battery replacement instructions for the iPod touch 4th/4.5 Gen (A1367) are not yet available, but it is a safe bet that by the time battery replacement becomes an issue, directions will be available for those willing to tackle the challenge.

From watching the video for your particular iPod touch model you should be able to determine whether or not you feel comfortable replacing the battery yourself or if you would instead prefer to hire a professional.

Also see:

• How do I replace the battery in the full-size iPod models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod mini models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod nano models?
• How do I replace the battery in the iPod shuffle models?