Apple Launches Third-party iPhone Charger Takeback Program

Following the death of a woman in China who was electrocuted by a knockoff iPhone charger Apple is launching a voluntary takeback program for third-party chargers. From August 16 through October 18 Apple retail stores and authorized service providers will take and dispose of any third party iPhone charger customers are concerned about.

Worried about that third-party iPhone charger? Apple will take it off your hands.Worried about that third-party iPhone charger? Apple will take it off your hands.

As part of the takeback program Apple will also offer customers returning third-party chargers a US$9 discount on an Apple-branded charger. Apple's own iPhone charger is regularly priced at $19.

You'll need to bring your iPhone along for serial number verification because Apple is limiting the takeback and discount program to one per device. The offer applies to iPhones, iPads, and iPods.

A 23 year old woman was killed in China in July when a defective third-party iPhone charger sent a deadly shock through her body. Apple and local authorities looked into the incident, and the iPhone maker quickly added a page to its China website detailing how to identify official Apple-branded chargers and warning customers to avoid third-party products.

The chargers Apple takes back will be disposed of in an environmentally responsible way, so there don't need to be any concerns that a landfill will suddenly be overrun with third-party iPhone chargers.

[Some image elements courtesy Shutterstock]