What’s up with my ipod battery?

QI have a current-generation ipod Touch that’s about 14 months old and running the latest version of the Apple IOS operating system. After fully charging the device and using it for less than an hour, the battery indicator goes into the red. However, if I then plug it into the mains the meter instantly jumps to 70 per cent charge. It feels like the operating system is misreading the battery level, or Apple has added something to make people buy new batteries or products. Is there anything that can be done to improve this? Vince Weeding

AIf your ipod Touch is indeed running the latest version of IOS (now 12.0), then you’ll have access to a feature Apple calls Battery Health. This provides an insight into the battery’s performance and ability to hold a charge, compared to its condition when new.

So, first, from your ipod’s home screen tap Settings, followed by Battery (see screenshot 1) and then Battery Health (2). Look at the figure next to Maximum Capacity (3). Given the relatively young age of your device we would expect this to be around 80 per cent, at least. If it’s lower, then that’s a strong hint that your battery is defective.

If not, or as well, it could be that the charger or cable has been shortcircuiting, perhaps damaging the battery in the process. Are both the cable and charger original Apple products? Cheap, no-brand replacements are renowned for dodgy, even dangerous construction. Your ipod might need a replacement battery, but this is a difficult job. We’d advise taking the whole caboodle into an Apple store to allow the company’s technicians to take an expert look.