How Long Do iPod Batteries Last?

Question: How Long Do iPod Batteries Last?

Apple doesn't provide a project lifespan in months or years for the batteries in iPods. This is because the lifespan of a battery is influenced by how the battery is used and charged.

Answer: Apple says that iPod batteries will maintain up to 80% of their capacity through 400 charge/discharge cycles. A charge/discharge cycle is just what it sounds like - using the iPod until its battery is substantially run down and then recharging it. How long that translates to depends on how often you need to full recharge your iPod. Light users could get three or four years of use out of a battery, while heavy users might only get 18 months.
Apple recommends that you perform at least one charge/discharge cycle a month, as iPod batteries benefit from this and retain their ability hold juice longer that way.
If you've come to the end of your iPod's battery lifespan, you've got options, including replacing the battery or buying a new iPod.