Apple recalls three-prong AC wall plugs adapters in SG, HK and UK over risk of electrical shock

Apple users, pay attention. This announcement could (quite literally) shock you yet also save your life. Stop using your three-prong AC wall plug adapters, stat! Apple announced on Thursday (Apr 25) a recall of the adapters, which were designed for use in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Singapore, along with those included in the Apple World Travel Adapter Kit. According to Apple, users are at risk of electrical shock from the exposed metal parts of the adapters.

On Thursday, Apple put out a press release on the recall, along with details on the affected equipment and instructions for users on how to swap their faulty adapters for new, safe ones.

The recall affects three-prong AC wall plug adapters shipped from 2003 to 2010 with Mac and certain iOS devices. The same goes for the adapters included in the Apple World Travel Adapter Kit. Apple’s USB power adapters are not included in the recall.

Apple explained that users are at risk of possible electrical shock from touching the exposed metal parts of the adapters, which “in very rare cases” may break. In the statement, Apple noted that it is currently aware of six cases worldwide.

To take part in this Voluntary Recall and Exchange Program, customers can visit this Apple support page for details on how to exchange their affected adapters for new ones.

In order to properly identify an affected adapter, pay attention to the specifics. Firstly, affected adapters are white, with no letters on the inside slot which is attached to the main Apple power adapter. The new safe adapters are white with grey on the inside portion that attaches to the power adapter.

Apple said that the exchange is free of charge, assuring customers that their safety is the company’s top priority.

Here is the exchange process, taken verbatim from Apple’s announcement on its support page:

Please choose one of the following options below. We will need to verify your Mac, iPad, iPhone or iPod serial number as part of the exchange process. Sol please find your serial number in advance. Finding your device serial number is easy.

• Find an Authorized Apple Service Provider.
• Make an appointment at an Apple Retail Store.
• Contact Apple Support.

The electrical shock risk from these Apple adapters brings to mind other similar safety scares from technological failures in the last few years, most notably the controversy of the exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in late 2016, prompting a worldwide recall of the devices.