Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) launched a free replacement program for the USB-C charging cable with MacBooks sold until June 2015, including those sold separately during that time frame as a result of a mysterious problem with the design.
Article posted on the official support page says that Apple doesn’t clearly mention the exact location of the fault. However, the company advised users that the affected cables may not charge correctly when connected to a MacBook. The cable either may not charge the device or only charge intermittently when it’s connected to a power adapter.
As a result of the replacement program, Apple will provide a new and redesigned USB-C charge cable free of charge to all eligible customers on production of the required documents. Moreover, if you had purchased the cable separately, you will be eligible for replacement as per the policy.
To identify the affected cable, customers only need to determine the text printed on them which should read as Designed by Apple in California. Assembled in China. However, the newly redesigned cables also have the same content but will have a serial number DDDXEERRRA printed on it after the text.
To be eligible for the replacement program, Apple will verify the serial number of the MacBook. While Apple recommends genius bar reservation available with a retail store, you can also contact your authorized service provider or directly contact the support team.
In a communication posted on the official support page, Apple revealed that new cable will be automatically shipped to all customers who have provided a valid shipping address during the registration process. The free replacement program also applies to online store purchases made during the period.
As a supplementary note, Apple has made it clear that the cable replacement program does not extend the warranty on the product. Moreover, in case, if you had paid to get the cable, you can contact Apple for an appropriate refund which will be initiated immediately.
Finally, the company disclosed that customers can request a free replacement for the affected USB-C charge cable till June 8, 2018.