Nothing like a good electric shock in the morning after you reach out for your iPhone when the alarm is ringing. Not that most of us have had that problem, but it is a common deal for those that buy counterfeit Apple power adapters, which are quite common, and very hard to detect on eBay. The same goes if you buy alternative power adapter solutions for third parties, which even though highly unlikely, can also pose the risk of not performing as the manufacturer intended.

As a result two separate reports from Chinese customers getting electrocuted by adapters that users can’t confirm are real or fake, Apple has decided to launch a new USB Power Adapter Takeback Program in order to provide a general solution to these complaints. According to Cupertino:

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.

The program begins this Friday, and you can replace any adapter that you have for a genuine Apple part for the price of $10. If you consider the fact that an iOS 5W or 12W power adapter costs $19, this is definitely a good deal. The program will be available in Apple Retail Stores, and they’ll take care of disposing your old adapter after the exchange. The program ends on October 18, 2013, so take your time.

Via: iMore

Source: Apple