Apple: apply handcream to avoid iPod shocks

 

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By Barry Collins

Posted on 20 May 2009 at 08:41

The bizarre advice comes from a safety warning posted on the Apple website, which warns of the possibility of getting a static electricity shock from the earbuds of an iPod or iPhone.

"When using headphones in areas where the air is very dry, it is easy to build up static electricity and possible for your ear to receive a small electrostatic discharge from the headphones," Apple cautions.

"This condition is very similar to dragging your feet across a carpet and receiving a static shock by touching a door knob. However, instead of the static charge building up on your body, the charge builds up on the device that the earbuds are connected to."

The company says the static shocks are not unique to Apple hardware and don't constitute a fault with the device.

However, the company does provide some (literally) handy advice on how to prevent such shocks occurring.

These include using a humidifier to raise the moisture level in the air indoors, applying anti-static hand lotion if you have dry skin, and even changing your wardrobe. "Try clothes with natural fibres since synthetic fibres are more likely to hold a static charge," Apple suggests.

When outdoors, the company advises that you keep the device out of the wind, and refrain from "removing your device from your pockets frequently as rubbing the device on certain materials can cause a static build up".

In short, shell-suit wearing eczema sufferers from Chicago had better be on their guard.