Apple to exchange thousands, if not millions, of iPhone 3G power adapters due to defect that could cause the chargers to shock users.

Apple’s roll out of the iPhone 3G has not been smooth by company standards, , although they’ve set records for the number of smartphones sold. Security questions, instability and poor 3G performance, are just a few of the problems that have plagued what many are still - nonetheless - touting as the smartphone of the year.

The latest bit of bad news concerning the iPhone 3G regards the new compact charger Apple introduced with it. Turns out the batch of power adapters bundled with the first group of iPhone 3Gs were defective, requiring Apple to exchange them for new ones at the cost of millions of dollars.

According to Apple, "...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..."

Although no injuries have been reported, Apple's decided not to take any chances, hence the recall.

The defective chargers shipped with iPhone 3Gs sold in the U.S, Japan, Canada, Mexico and several Latin American countries. Some were sold separately, as an accessory, as well.

Apple recommends you stop using the adapters right away.

You can order a replacement on the Web. These adapters will ship within three weeks of your order, starting on October 10th. On that day, you'll also be able to exchange your defective adapter in person at your local Apple store.

See here for details.