Apple has had a string of bad luck lately. Today, the company announced that it is recalling the power adapters for all iPhone 3Gs sold in the United States, Canada, Japan, and all Latin American countries that use American style plugs. Apparently, the metal prongs on the adapters can break off and remain stuck in the power outlet, creating a serious risk of electric shock. Users can either exchange their adapters in an Apple store, or order a replacement online.
However, new adapters will only be available starting October 10. Until then, Apple recommends that users only charge their phones by connecting them to their computers.
This is not the first time that Apple had issues with its power adapters. In August, Apple announced that it was investigating issues with its MagSafe power adapters for the MacBook and MacBook Pro line. According to some users, these adapters tend to overheat, short out, and burn.
With millions of iPhone 3G phones sold in the last few months, this is a major undertaking for Apple. The only advantage for Apple is that these power adapters are relatively inexpensive. Currently, replacement adapters retail for $29, though Apple’s actual cost is surely a lot less. Apple will probably take a small financial hit from this, but the real question will be if the image of the iPhone will be tarnished by this recall – especially after so many users have already complained about other problems with the phone.
