Nokia partners with many component manufacturers in order to speed time to market and lower costs. One of these partners is BYD, a Chinese company that produces cars, rechargeable  batteries, and mobile phone components. One of these key components is the power charger, which due to economies of scale BYD is able to sell for around $1 per unit.

A safety issue has now arisen that has prompted a recall for up to 14 million of these chargers.

"We have determined that the plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger’s internal components and potentially posing an electric shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket," stated Nokia.

Chargers with the model AC-3U or AC-3E manufactured by BYD between June 15, 2009 and August 9, 2009 are affected, as well as AC-4U chargers made between April 13, 2009 and October 25, 2009.

While Nokia says it is unaware of any incidents or injuries related to the affected chargers, it will begin exchanging affected charger models free-of-charge as a precautionary measure. Customers with chargers matching these criteria are advised to immediately stop using it, and seek a free replacement charger by visiting the recall website.

BYD will be covering the entire cost of the recall.