The Apple product serial number you entered is not part of this program. 11/15/13

I'm having the same issue. I've also sent in many 1st gens without a problem and now I can't get any to go through. Spoke to applecare rep and was told if I'm getting the message saying it isn't part of the program there is nothing they can do. Didn't really give me a straight answer when I asked about the possible safety hazard if I continue using my 1st gen. He also said there is no glitch on the website and they do not have any bulletin saying anything has changed. I don't know, all seems very odd to me.

Looks like its back up guys..

Thanks a lot! Mine serial # worked now!

Yea, the tier 2 rep said this is going to be temporary reopen and they might looking to close the program soon.

Still wondering how you managed to amass so many of these, Candian_l3acon?Couldn't be eBay, since 1st gens mostly sell for $80 or above, and considering 6th gens go for around $100, that isn't much profit. Oh well, guess I'll never know, but it sounds like you've made quite the business out of this. Kudos!

If you are holding them I would worry. They don't have to keep the program forever for legal protection they just have to show a good faith effort. I would think any jury would see 2 years as good faith. So if you sold one of yours it would be your liability unless you changed the battery.

You hope they will continue because you have a business going that depends on it.

They have ended lots of exchange programs such as the Sony laptop battery program that could cause swollen batteries or possibly fires.

Apple is a target for litigation and they are obviously not afraid of being sued. Or suing. I would think strongly about doing all your exchanges soon.