Apple's iPhone Battery Replacement Program...

Apple has posted details on its iPhone Battery Replacement Program, enabling iPhone owners with dead batteries to exchange the dead cells for a $79 service fee plus $6.95 shipping & handling. The service is designed for iPhone owners who only require service because the battery's ability to hold an electrical charge has diminished, according to Apple. The Cupertino-based company will replace the battery if the iPhone shows no sign of damage due to accident or abuse, but battery replacement clears all data from the cellular handset. Apple does not offer data transfer services, instead warning customers to sync their iPhone with iTunes just prior to sending the device to the company for a new battery. The repair process normally takes three business days, and Apple asks users not to send any accessories with the iPhone.

Griffin ships PowerJolt charger for iPhone

Griffin Technology today unveiled its PowerJolt Car Charger for Apple's iPhone, marking the accessory maker's first device for Apple's first cellular phone. Recently updated specifically for iPhone, the PowerJolt plugs into a vehicle's cigarette lighter or accessory power socket and connects to the iPhone to charge the device even while in use. The charge indicator glows green when it's powered up and ready for use, alternatively glowing amber while its charging. Griffin's PowerJolt also features built-in power management with an in-line 2 Amp automotive fuse to guard against power surges. The device works with iPod models that feature a full-size dock connector as well as first-generation iPod shuffles. PowerJolt is available for $20 from Apple and AT&T stores.

Over-the-air mobile contacts app for iPhone...

Mobile open-source software firm Funambol today will begin inviting consumers to join the new myFUNAMBOL portal to access free mobile email, contacts, and calendars on cellular phones -- including Apple's new iPhone. MyFUNAMBOL is available by invitation only, allowing users to get free mobile email on cellular phones from services such as Yahoo!, Gmail, and AOL as well as most standard email services that utilize POP or IMAP protocols. MyFUNAMBOL is available for free on an invitation basis (system requirements were unavailable).

Car charger, sync accessories for iPod debut

USB Fever has announced two new iPod accessories. The first is a USB car power adapter with 2 USB outlets, suitable for charging iPod, PDA, and various phones, as long as the devices use a USB Power cable. The power source is the car lighter. This adapter is priced at $14. The second is a sync and charging adapter for the iPod Shuffle that has no cord -- only a small USB connecter and the standard iPod Shuffle headphone jack connector. The adapter is available in five colors to match the five iPod Shuffle colors. The adapter is priced at $7.