Apple Recalls Some AC Power Plugs That Could 'Break and Create Risk of Electrical Shock'
Apple is recalling some of its two-prong AC wall plug adaptors designed for use in continental Europe, New Zealand, Australia, Korea, Argentina and Brazil.
These aren’t the power bricks themselves, but rather the adaptor plugs that fit into the iPad or Mac bricks. (They are frequently called “duckheads.”)
Apple says that “in very rare cases,” the adaptor plugs could “break and create a risk of electrical shock if touched.” These types of plugs have been available in various Mac and iOS products between 2003 and 2015.
Apple added that other wall plug adapters, including those designed for Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, United Kingdom and the United States — as well as Apple USB power adapters — are not affected.
The company created a graphic to let people know if their wall plug adaptor is affected. Newer plugs that presumably have a different type of seal include a three-letter region code inside the attachment slot.
If you own an impacted adaptor, you can exchange it at an Apple store or authorized retailer, or request a replacement online.
The recall comes a week after Microsoft voluntarily recalled overheating Surface Pro chargers. As is the case with Apple, Microsoft’s recall is for the cable that connects the power supply to the electrical socket; not the power supply itself.