Apple Launches USB Adapter Trade-in Program
Following recent reports that a young woman in China died after using her iPhone while it was plugged in and charging through a third-party USB adapter, Apple has announced a USB adapter trade-in program.
The company will accept third-party USB adapters and in return sell customers official Apple USB adapters for $10. USB adapters are used to Apple's devices into wall outlets.
"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," Apple said. "Customer safety is a top priority at Apple."
The program kicks off in the U.S. on Aug. 16. Users can head to any Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider to drop off their third-party USB adapter, which will be "disposed of in an environmentally friendly way."
Users also need to bring their iPhone, iPad or iPod device for serial number validation. The program ends on Oct. 18.
"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," Apple said. "Customer safety is a top priority at Apple."
The program kicks off in the U.S. on Aug. 16. Users can head to any Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider to drop off their third-party USB adapter, which will be "disposed of in an environmentally friendly way."
Users also need to bring their iPhone, iPad or iPod device for serial number validation. The program ends on Oct. 18.