Do people usually just buy a new iPod every x-years or so? <BR><BR>This issue is probably the major driving force of buying the iPod from Best Buy simple for their replacement plan.

I've got a 3rd gen 40GB ipod which is not covered by Apple's manufacturer warranty anymore as it is over a year old & I didn't buy extended warranty. The battery barely manages to last over 2-3 ...

Apple battery replacement can be performed at Apple retail locations through the Genius Bar, online using mail-in service, or at authorized resellers.