A closer look at Apple’s service policy regarding replacement of the iPad’s battery reveals a big change in policy for the company.

According to Apple’s Web site, iPads that require service due to “a battery’s diminished ability to hold an electrical charge” will be replaced for a service fee of $99 plus $6.95.

An Apple spokesperson was not available for comment before press time.

Apple says user data will not be saved. Users will receive a replacement iPad that will not contain any of their original personal data. Before submitting an iPad for service, Apple requests that users sync their iPad with iTunes to back up contacts, calendars, e-mail account settings, bookmarks, apps and so forth.

Battery replacement service may be arranged via local Apple retail stores or any Apple authorized service provider. Apple says the service can be completed within approximately one week from the time a user sends an iPad to Apple for repair.

iPhone and iPod touch users have traditionally had to send their devices to Apple for battery replacement. That service costs the same for them as the iPad repair, but a user’s original device was returned to the customer.