CNET: iPod's 'dirty secret' wins Web fans

Damn, it's dead again

Apple Computer learned that viral marketing works both ways. After many iPod MP3 player owners were treated shabbily when their rechargeable batteries died, two brothers created a video and site about their own experience. Initially refused a battery replacement, they tried an after market product, which wound up killing the iPod. They even sent the iPod to Apple CEO Steve Jobs with a note. Apple did eventually change its tune, allowing for less expensive battery replacement, but the damage is done. The site has already seen about 200,000 visitors.