Apple Korea offering new replacements of iPad, iPod to fit local rules

Korean newspaper The Chosunilbo reports (via The Next Web) that the country's Fair Trade Commission has convinced Apple to change its policy. According to the report, Apple previously replaced defective iPods and iPads with refurbished devices.

"Consumers will be protected under Korean warranty standards for all of Apple's small electronic gadgets sold here from now on," the publication noted the FTC as saying.

Apple's new policy for iPad and iPod purchases in Korea falls in line with its local warranty for the iPhone. Last September, the Cupertino, Calif., company adjusted its iPhone warranty to provide new replacements in response to pressure from Korea's FTC.

The iPad has gained sufficient traction in Korea as to have passed up Samsung's Galaxy Tab on its home turf. Apple's third-generation tablet went on sale in the region last month.