Apple has announced a new USB Power Adapter takeback program following the recent events of electrocution controversy. Reports state that the chargers used in those incidents were counterfeit, and cause many problems. Due to this, Apple has announced this program for iPhone, iPad and iPod chargers.
The program is said to be available for all customers through Apple’s own retail stores, as well as Authorized retailers. The program is set to kickoff on August 16, 2013. Here is what Apple had to say:
Customer safety is a top priority at Apple. That’s why all of our products — including USB power adapters for iPhone, iPad, and iPod — undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability and are designed to meet government safety standards around the world.
Those that feel uncomfortable with their adapters can now get it exchanged with an official adapter at a discounted price of $10. Also, this program is set to expire on October 18, 2013. In order to get it exchanged, you must bring your device along with the adapter. Apple will of course properly recycle the trade-in adapters and give you a new genuine adapter.
Here’s the full announcement from Apple:
Recent reports have suggested that some counterfeit and third party adapters may not be designed properly and could result in safety issues. While not all third party adapters have an issue, we are announcing a USB Power Adapter Takeback Program to enable customers to acquire properly designed adapters.
Customer safety is a top priority at Apple. That’s why all of our products — including USB power adapters for iPhone, iPad, and iPod — undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability and are designed to meet government safety standards around the world.
Starting August 16, 2013, if you have concerns about any of your USB power adapters, you can drop them off at an Apple Retail Store or at an Apple Authorized Service Provider. We will ensure that these adapters are disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.
If you need a replacement adapter to charge your iPhone, iPad, or iPod, we recommend getting an Apple USB power adapter. For a limited time, you can purchase one Apple USB power adapter at a special price — $10 USD or approximate equivalent in local currency. To qualify, you must turn in at least one USB power adapter and bring your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to an Apple Retail Store or participating Apple Authorized Service Provider for serial number validation. The special pricing on Apple USB power adapters is limited to one adapter for each iPhone, iPad, and iPod you own and is valid until October 18, 2013.
Note: Due to the complexity of testing required to detect an unsafe or counterfeit adapter, Apple Retail and Apple Authorized Service Providers cannot advise you on the authenticity or safety of your adapter. We are offering this special takeback program for any USB power adapter made for use with iPhone, iPad, and iPod for which you have concerns.
