Apple announced today that it is recalling the Apple ultracompact USB power adapter that ships with the Apple iPhone 3G as well as the one sold as a standalone accessory.
Apple has determined that under certain conditions the new ultracompact Apple USB power adapter’s metal prongs can break off and remain in a power outlet, creating a risk of electric shock. We have received reports of detached blades involving a very small percentage of the adapters sold, but no injuries have been reported.
Apple recommends that users immediately stop using the ultracompact power adapter and instead, charge their iPhone by connecting it to their computer using the provided USB cable or by using either the standard-sized Apple USB power adapter or a third party iPhone compatible one.
Customers in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Japan, and several Latin American countries are affected by the recall and should review the the Apple Ultracompact USB Power Adapter Exchange program to get your free replacement (available starting Friday, October 10, 2008). If you purchased your iPhone 3G in another country, you are not affected by the recall.