AMAZEBALLS: Buy a doomed Apple TV, get a replacement free

Apple has admitted its third-generation Apple TV box is dicky and has offered to replace faulty units.

The fruity firm confessed that "small numbers" of the units suffered from dodgy Wi-Fi connections. Although the set-top box has a wired Ethernet port, the flaw is crippling for fanbois who are allergic to trailing cables and rely on wireless networking to stream video. The device is supposed to allow iThings and Mac computers to beam programmes and movies to tellies.

A memo distributed to Apple stores in the US, and subsequently leaked online, stated:

Apple has determined that a very small number of Apple TV (3rd generation) products might experience one of these Wi-Fi related connectivity issues: Cannot locate network, Unable to join network, Dropped or intermittent connection.

Anyone experiencing the telltale signs of Wi-Fi meltdown should take their device to an Apple store. The "geniuses" within will then check if you've updated the software, according to the leaked briefing note. After establishing you're not totally stupid, they will examine the unit and replace if necessary.

They will swap third-generation Apple TV models that are up to two years old and which contain one of the following pair of letters in the serial number: H9, HC, HD, HF, HG, HH, HJ, HK, HL, HM, HN, HP, HQ, HR, HT, HV, HW, HX, J1, J2, J3, J4, J5, J6, J7, J8, J9.

The Register tried to reach Apple's UK base for comment about how many British people were affected, but they did not respond. So why don't you tell us if you've experienced any problems with your Apple TV? ®