European iPhone users should be aware that Apple has issued a recall notice for 5W power adapters that were included with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S models shipped from October 2009 through September 2012. Also covered under the recall notice are 5W adapters that were sold as standalone accessories.
The adapter in question has the model number A1300 next to the prongs. If the model number is A1400, no replacement is needed.
Apple stated that in rare cases, the adapter may overheat and pose a safety risk. Apple is issuing the recall on a voluntary basis, and is encouraging customers to take advantage of a free exchange program. Customers will receive a new, redesigned power adapter.
To make the exchange, customers should bring their iPhones and the 5W Power Adapter to an Apple Retail Store or a participating Apple Authorized Service Provider. Bringing the iPhone to the exchange venue is necessary for cross-checking serial numbers. Apple intends to dispose of the turned-in power adapters in "an environmentally friendly way."
Adapters sold in the following countries are affected by the recall:
Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and Vietnam.
Apple responded to another power adapter issue when in August 2013 a Chinese woman was electrocuted while using her iPhone that was connected to a charger. An investigation revealed that the charger was not an Apple product, but a third-party adapter.
Apple then issued a statement that they would launch a charger replacement program in which they would offer a substantial discount on Apple-made power adapters to anyone who turned in a third-party adapter.
"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 Adapter Takeback Program to enable customers to acquire properly designed adapters. Customer safety is a top priority at Apple. That's why all of our products -- including USB power adapters for iPhone, iPad and iPod -- undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability and are designed to meet government safety standards around the world," according to the Apple statement.
The offer enabled customers to purchase Apple USB Power Adapters for $10 each. Apple's established retail price for these products is generally $29.99. The offer period was Aug. 13 through Oct. 18, 2013.
