Apple is replacing MacBook charging cables due to a ‘design issue’

Apple today announced that it will now offer free replacements for MacBook charging cables that use the USB Type-C specification because some of them have not been working correctly.

“A limited number of Apple USB-C charge cables that were included with MacBook computers through June 2015 may fail due to a design issue,” Apple says on a website for the replacement program. “As a result, your MacBook may not charge or only charge intermittently when it’s connected to a power adapter with an affected cable.”

Customers who gave Apple their mailing addresses when they registered their MacBooks will receive the new cables by the end of this month, if they’re eligible for the replacement. For those who didn’t provide a mailing address, once they’ve checked that their MacBooks qualify for the replacement — based on the serial number — they should visit an Apple Store (Apple suggests making a reservation at the Genius Bar) or contact an authorized service provider.

Apple has previously implemented replacement programs for a few other faulty products, including iSight cameras for iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 5 batteries.

Interestingly, Microsoft recently announced a replacement program for Surface charging cables that weren’t functioning properly.

This Apple replacement program is in effect until June 8, 2018.