Apple starts 'takeback' programme for power adaptors

Apple has started offering a takeback service for customers who are concerned about the safety of their iPhone, iPod and iPad power adapters.

With reports of malfunctioning counterfeit and third-party adapters causing injury and even death, the company has decided to give consumers the option of trading in their own adapter - no questions asked - and receive a genuine Apple product for a $10 fee.

The company is limiting the takeback programme to one adapter and customers must bring their iPhone, iPad, or iPod into a store for validation of its serial number and turn in the suspect adapter unit. The takeback offer is valid between August 16 and October 18.

Apple published guidance for consumers wanting to check the authenticity of their power adapters last week in the wake of two cases of electric shock - one fatal - linked to the use of counterfeit devices.

"Recent reports have suggested that some counterfeit and third party adapters may not be designed properly and could result in safety issues," said the company in a statement on its website.

"Customer safety is a top priority at Apple. That’s why all of our products … undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability and are designed to meet government safety standards around the world," it added.

Apple also said it would not be able to tell customers whether their trade-in was counterfeit "due to the complexity of testing required to detect an unsafe or counterfeit adapter."


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