Apple Recalls iPhone 3G USB Chargers

Apple has announced an exchange program for ultra-compact USB chargers sold with the popular iPhone 3G in several countries.

Apple has announced an exchange program for the ultra-compact USB power adapters that have been sold with the popular iPhone 3G in several countries. Although Apple has received no reports of injuries from the adapters, the company says the power adapter’s metal prongs can break off and remain in a power outlet under certain conditions, creating a risk of electric shock.

The adapters have been sold with every iPhone 3G in the U.S., Japan, Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Peru; the adapters were also sold as a separate accessory in those countries, along with Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, and Argentina. The problem does not affect power adapters sold with the original iPhone, or to iPhone 3G units sold in other countries.

Apple is offering to replace the affected adapters free of charge. The company recommends customers stop using the adapters until they get a replacement, and charge their iPhone 3Gs using the USB cable that came with the phone, or a compatible accessory like a car charger.

Replacement adapters will be available beginning October 10. Customers can order a replacement via the Web or exchange their adapters at an Apple retail location beginning October 10. Customers will need to supply their iPhone 3G serial number(s) as part of the exchange process. Ordering a replacement via the Web also means supplying your name and address (Apple will ship a box to returning the recalled adapter); customers getting a replacement via an Apple store will need both the recalled adapter and their iPhone 3G.