Japan investigates iPod Nano sparking

Japanese authorities are investigating a recent incident involving an iPod Nano shooting sparks while charging. The Trade and Economy Ministry suspects a defect in the Nano's rechargeable lithium-ion battery and has since ordered Apple Japan to conduct an investigation into the matter, according to the Associated Press.

The Nano sparking incident occurred in January in the Kanagawa prefecture, southwest of Tokyo. About 425,000 of the music players are estimated to have been shipped to Japan, though it is not clear if the specific model under investigation--the MA099J/A--is sold in other countries. The player was assembled in China, but the origin of the battery was unclear.

It has been discontinued since September 2006, according to the ministry. Apple Japan "did not contest the ministry statement," according to the AP, but did not provide further comment.

(Source: Crave Asia)