Apple logs patent for abuse detection system

Apple is seeking to reduce the number of devices it reissues to customers

Apple has developed new technology that will allow iPods, iPhones and Mac laptops to automatically store details about any damage inflicted by the owner, according to reports.

The company said in a patent application that the software will allow it to save costs by cutting down on the number of devices it reissues to customers because of reported faults.

Currently, when an Apple device is damaged by heat or water, an indicator changes colour to allow the firm to void the user's warranty.

However, news web site Apple Insider reported that Apple filed a patent called Consumer Abuse Detection System and Method that will allow it to analyse the in-memory records on a device to determine whether the damage was caused by the owner, when the event occurred and what type of damage was inflicted.

"A problem arises when a device has failed due to consumer abuse which may not be readily apparent upon a cursory inspection, but a consumer attempts to return the device for repair or replacement under the warranty," reads the Apple patent, cited in the Apple Insider report.

"By providing the capability to quickly and easily detect whether consumer abuse occurred in an electronic device, a vendor or manufacturer diagnosing a returned product may be able to better determine whether or not to initiate a product return under a warranty policy."