France launches official investigation into exploding iPods

Apple still regards the exploding iPod incidents as 'isolated'

French authorities have launched an official investigation into the safety of Apple's iPhone and iPod lines after a number of cases of the devices overheating and breaking up.

The General Directorate for Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control confirmed to French news agency AFP that it is investigating the issue after reports of French users being injured by faulty devices.

"An investigation is under way. We have been alerted to the problem and we are looking into it closely," said a spokesman.

In the latest case Rolland Caufman, a Parisian pensioner, reported that his iPhone screen had broken up in July just a week after he bought it.

"I took it out of my pocket and held it to my ear and saw the screen crack up like a car windscreen," he said.

A French security guard reported a similar problem on 25 August, and said that he may sue after being caught in the eye with a shard of glass.

Apple has had a number of quality control issues in the past with lithium batteries, and has been accused of trying to hush up cases of exploding devices.

While this investigation will not halt iPhone sales in France, the company's reputation in the country could be tarnished.

Apple has said that it is investigating the reports, but regards the incidents as isolated.