Epson premature bulb failure syndrome

I was on the brink of buying an Epson 8xxx when they were suddenly no longer available (little Spanish isand).
After some more reading up to pass the waiting time I discovered in several sites that the users of the 8xxx series suffering from premature bulb failure syndrome.

Since a new bulb is a very expensive part that will be a big no no in the purchasing decision.

Here my question:
I read that Epson is very fast in sending a free replacement bulb and some new Epson 8xxx projectors now come with a free bulb deal (very suspicious).
Is there any indication that this problem is solved and the new bulbs are good for the claimed 4000 to 5000 hours?

Any input welcome

thank you, my search did not bring that up