Exchange faulty phone chargers for free

THE Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (Aiti) wishes to inform the public that through Nokia Corporation's 'Nokia Charger Exchange Programme', consumers can exchange their Nokia chargers manufactured by a third party supplier for free.

The statement released by Aiti yesterday mentioned that Nokia identified a potential product quality issue with certain chargers manufactured by one of its third-party suppliers during a routine quality control process.

"The plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger's internal components and potentially posing an electrical shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket," the press release said.

Aiti's press statement said that there are a few models which were affected.

"They are the AC-3E and AC-3U models, manufactured between June 15 and August 9, 2009 and the AC-4U model manufactured between April 13 and October 25, 2009," the statement added.

On behalf of Nokia Corporation, Aiti wishes to inform consumers that the chargers which are referenced in the Nokia Charger Exchange Programme are the 2-pin chargers.

None of the specific models of chargers has been sold by Nokia for domestic use in Brunei where domestic electrical outlets require a 3-pin charger.

"However, the main concern is for consumers who bought their Nokia-branded chargers outside the country and not from local dealers."

"As a proactive precautionary measure, Nokia is advising these consumers to verify if their Nokia chargers are part of the exchange programme," the release said.

It is highly recommended that consumers with affected Nokia-branded chargers to stop using the charger and exchange it for a free replacement.

The press release is an initiative by Aiti to promote awareness on consumer safety.

For more information, including how consumers can check to see if their chargers are affected, Nokia has established a website at chargerexchange. nokia.com.The Brunei Times