Apple offers $10 trade-in program to curb use of third-party chargers

After reports that a woman’s fatal electrocution in China was caused by a faulty iPhone charger from a third-party vendor, Apple has launched a trade-in program designed to get official USB power adapters into the hands of customers. The company will dispose of any third-party chargers that a user suspects to be faulty, and, for a discounted price of $10 or local equivalent, will provide a new official adapter.

“Recent reports have suggested that some counterfeit and third party adapters may not be designed properly and could result in safety issues,” reads a statement on Apple’s website. “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.”

The promotion runs until October 18th, and follows a statement issued by Apple in China urging customers against unofficial chargers. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the pricing promotion will have to bring their iPhone, iPad, or iPod to an Apple Store so that the serial number can be verified.