iPod Battery Boosted in Software Refresh

iPod owners received a long-awaited update this week that resolves the top complaint about Apple's popular audio player - erratic battery life.

The first update to be released since last October, software version 1.2.6 enables the iPod to better track its charge and use the entire battery capacity. As a result, the iPod now supports longer playback times and at least ten days of standby life.

According to Apple, "the iPod would sometimes mistake a temporary low voltage condition as an indication that the battery was discharged. This resulted in the iPod shutting down prematurely, even though the battery was still capable of powering the iPod."

iPod Software 1.2.6 can be downloaded for Mac OS X and Windows formatted iPods from Apple's Web site.

Apple has not refreshed its iPod hardware since July 2002 at Macworld New York, leading to recent speculation that the company is preparing higher capacity models. But sales of the iPod have remained strong and Apple has not hinted at any plans to change the lineup.