Apple Replaces Fake Killer USB Chargers. Why Not Deadly Fakes For MacBooks?
Apple is offering $10 replacements for third-party chargers for iPhones, iPads and iPods after reports that, according to the LA Times, “a young woman in China died after using her iPhone while it was plugged in and charging through a third-party USB adapter.”
The Cupertino, Calif., tech giant will accept third-party USB adapters and in return sell customers official Apple USB adapters for $10, about half off the typical price. USB adapters are used to connect iPhone, iPad and iPod USB cables into wall outlets.
NO PROGRAM FOR POTENTIALLY DEADLIER FAKE MACBOOK ADAPTERS
A lot of writers — me included — use MacBooks, but the program does not include their adapters where fake chargers could be even more deadly because they tend to fall apart in such a way as to expose people to 110-volt AC wall current. See this previous post for personal experience with that (Fake MacBook Power Supply Self-Destructs).
Without mentioning the reported death in China, Apple said in this support post on their web site that:
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.
