Apple has announced that, under certain conditions, the ultracompact Apple USB power adapter’s metal prongs can break off and remain in a power outlet, creating the risk of "electric shock". Therefore, the company has announced the “Ultracompact USB Power Adapter Exchange Program”. Apple will exchange every ultracompact power adapter for a new, redesigned adapter, free of charge, starting October 10.

Apple claims to have received reports of detached prongs involving a very small percentage of the adapters sold. While no injuries have been reported, Apple has determined that the new ultracompact Apple USB power adapters are faulty. Seemingly, the metal parts that go inside the outlet can break off, potentially spawning hazardous situations.

“We have received reports of detached blades involving a very small percentage of the adapters sold, but no injuries have been reported,” Apple states on the Support section of its web site. “Customer safety is always Apple’s top priority so [Apple] has voluntarily decided to exchange every ultracompact power adapter for a new redesigned adapter, free of charge,” says the company. According to Apple, the ultracompact USB power adapters were supplied with every iPhone 3G sold in the US, Japan, Canada, Mexico, and several other Latin-American countries.

If you purchased an iPhone 3G in any of these countries, Apple says you're likely to own a faulty ultracompact USB adapter. Even if you have purchased the adapter as a standalone accessory, you may (and should) also use the Adapter Exchange Program. However, if you purchased an Apple Ultracompact USB Power Adapter as a standalone accessory and do not have an iPhone 3G, you will have to contact Apple Support or an Apple Retail Store for a replacement. Replacement adapters have a single green dot on the bottom (pictured above).

The program kicks off Friday, October 10, 2008. To exchange your current ultracompact Apple USB power adapter for a new one, you can order your replacement unit here. Apple requires that you enter your iPhone 3G serial number. If you don't know where to get it, Apple will tell you how, on the same page. Alternately, you can visit your local Apple Retail Store with the adapter and iPhone 3G in hand to get the adapter replaced.