Apple Watch: Apple warns against fake chargers


Apple has just released a support document warning owners about the inconveniences of using “counterfeit or uncertified” chargers.

In addition to the fact that the sale of these third-party chargers escapes Apple’s turnover, the brand assures that these non-Apple or non-Apple certified chargers can cause problems for users. This ranges from slow charging to premature battery wear to random, annoying ringtones.

But how do you know if a charger is made by Apple or MFi certified (Made For iPhone)?

One answer is that Apple provides information on the markings and model numbers of genuine chargers.


Example of testing and regulatory marking on an Apple Watch charging cable. Apple/ZDNET

In my experience, these markings can be tiny and difficult to read, and they also fade over time. This is why I prefer the second method proposed, which consists of reading the information integrated into the charging cable using a Mac:

  1. Plug the Apple Watch charging cable into an empty port on your Mac.

  2. On your Mac, click on the Apple menu and go to System Settingsthen click General in the sidebar.

  3. Click on Aboutthen on System reportand finally on USB.

  4. Select your Apple Watch charger from the list.

  5. Apple Watch chargers manufactured by Apple have Apple Inc. indicated as manufacturer.


Identifying a genuine Apple Watch charging pad using a Mac.


Identifying a real charging pad for Apple Watch using a Mac. Apple/ZDNET

But what about third-party wireless chargers certified by Apple under the MFI program?

This is where things get fuzzy. Apple encourages users to “carefully examine the charger packaging and the charger itself” for markings, and to look for one of the different logos, such as those below:


Logos to look for on Apple certified Apple Watch chargers.


Logos to look for on Apple Watch chargers certified by Apple. Apple/ZDNET

Users can also search Apple’s database of authorized accessories.

Are uncertified chargers really a problem?

I’ve received and tested dozens of uncertified Apple Watch chargers over the years. And I found that they ranged from poor quality to terrible, and suffered from a whole host of problems.

They are bad, and that is why I always recommend using the original Apple charger or a correct, and therefore certified, third-party charger.

Simply put, it’s not worth risking your Apple Watch using cheap options.


Source: “ZDNet.com”



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