An answer from Bose USA, but no result for me...
We are sorry to hear about the issue you are experiencing with your Bose® SoundDock® Portable Digital Music System.
It may be that there is an issue with the SoundDock Portable itself, or there may be some other issue. Consider the information below.
It is first necessary to ensure you are using a compatible iPod with the SoundDock Portable. The SoundDock Portable is compatible with iPod® models including the iPod touch and any iPod featuring a click wheel, including all nano, mini, photo, video and classic models. Non-click wheel models (3rd generation iPods and earlier) and iPod shuffle models are not compatible with the product.
If you are using a non-supported iPod with the product, then these iPods may not function properly with the unit. We are aware that non-click wheel models will not be charged by the SoundDock Portable
The current version of the SoundDock Portable is “Works with iPhone” certified and is compatible with all versions of the iPhone. Systems manufactured prior to January 26, 2009 are not “Works with iPhone” certified. However, our tests indicate that the system will play music and charge all versions of the iPhone. In the event of audio interference, set the iPhone to Airplane Mode. Please be sure to keep your iPhone software up to date through iTunes.
Now, there may be an issue with the iPod or iPhone itself. Please try another model iPod or iPhone, if available, to rule out the possibility that the iPod or iPhone is the issue.
If another iPod or iPhone is not available to try, and you are using a compatible iPod or iPhone, then it may be that the iPod’s or iPhone’s software needs to be updated. The SoundDock Portable may not work properly with all iPod or iPhone software versions. Check the current software using the iPod or iPhone menu to navigate to the software version heading. To upgrade the iPod or iPhone software, visit the Apple website and follow the instructions. The download is free. Below is the link to Apple's website:
http://www.apple.com/ipod/download
If upgrading the iPod’s or iPhone’s software did not resolve the issue, then let’s consider how the iPod or iPhone is being docked on the SoundDock Portable. The SoundDock Portable comes with two inserts (M and N). The N insert should only be used with the first and second generation iPod Nano. The M insert should be used with all other compatible model iPods or iPhones. Make sure you are using the correct insert and that the insert is secure on the base of the SoundDock before docking the iPod or iPhone. If you have a case or sleeve on the iPod or iPhone, this may cause the iPod or iPhone to not seat properly within the dock. Removing the case will allow the iPod or iPhone to fit into the dock using the supplied insert. Make sure the insert is secure on the base of the SoundDock Portable before docking the iPod or iPhone and that the iPod or iPhone is firmly seated in the insert on the SoundDock Portable system. To produce audio, receive power, recharge and maintain full functionality, the iPod or iPhone must be securely seated.
If the above solutions do not resolve the issue, then let’s try resetting the SoundDock Portable system. A reset may correct minor problems with the processor. Perform a system reset by following these steps:
If powered by AC outlet:
1. Remove the iPod or iPhone from the dock
2. Unplug the SoundDock power cord from the power outlet
3. Remove the power cord from the back of the SoundDock
4. Remove the Battery Pack
5. Wait 30 seconds
6. Reconnect the power cord
7. Reattach the Battery Pack (optional)
8. Retest the system
If powered by Battery:
1. Remove the iPod or iPhone from the dock
2. Remove the Battery Pack
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Reattach the Battery Pack
5. Retest the system
If the reset does not resolve the issue, then it may be that the iPod or iPhone itself needs to be reset. Below are links to Apple’s website with reset procedures for different model iPods and iPhones:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61705
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=305743 (iPhone and iTouch resets only)
If after resetting the iPod or iPhone, the issue is not resolved, then please let us know where/when the SoundDock Portable was purchased, which model iPod or iPhone you are using, which SoundDock Portable insert you are using, the serial number from the bottom of the SoundDock Portable, your daytime phone number and daytime UPS shipping address, so we can continue to assist.