Latest news with #PowerBank
CNET
2 days ago
- CNET
Anker Recalls 1.1 Million Power Banks for Fires and Explosions: What to Do if You're Affected
Electronics company Anker has announced an official recall of Anker PowerCore 10000 power banks with the model number A1263, following 19 reports of the portable chargers catching fire and exploding. The Consumer Products Safety Commission reports that more than 1.1 million of the products sold in the US are affected by the recall. The company plans to replace the charging devices, but customers must submit photo evidence of ownership and also prove that they've disposed of the PowerCore devices properly. The PowerCore, made in China, is now one of four current power bank recalls that have been issued by Anker. The others include the 334 MagGo 10K battery, the 321 Power Bank (5K) and the 535 Power Bank (20K). Other Anker models, including two of CNET's top picks for portable chargers -- Anker 523 PowerCore Slim 10K PD and Anker PowerCore III 10K -- aren't impacted by the recall. Airlines have taken note of portable battery hazards. Recently, Southwest Airlines changed its policy on charging devices inside of carry-on bags. Some international airlines have also begun limiting the types of lithium chargers fliers can bring on planes due to risks of overheating. How to check if your Anker PowerCore has been recalled Anker says the products affected are the A1263 model of the PowerCore 10000 power bank that were purchased between June 1, 2016 and Dec. 31, 2022. Customers can verify their serial number at a webpage provided by Anker. The serial number is on the bottom of the device. In entering the number, Anker advises, "Pay attention to the letters and numbers in the serial number: '1', 'L', 'I', '2' and 'Z'. Please note that characters such as '0 (zero)' and 'O' (o) may be entered incorrectly. Regarding the serial number of the target product, 'O' and 'I' are not used. What to do if your Anker PowerCore has been recalled In addition to instructing customers to stop using the chargers immediately, the CPSC and Anker posted requirements for receiving a replacement PowerCore device. They include: Submitting a photo of the recalled device that shows the model number, serial number, the consumer's name, date of the photo and the word "recalled" written in permanent marker on the device. The information not on the device can be on a piece of paper next to the device in the photo. Submitting a purchase receipt, though the CPSC says that's not a requirement for the recall. A confirmation of disposal of the device "in accordance with applicable laws and regulations." Anker advises not disposing of the device until receiving confirmation that it's eligible for the recall. From Anker: "If the serial number is worn off or not visible, please contact Anker for guidance." Anker recommends contacting a local hazardous waste collection center versus disposing of it in the trash or through standard recycling services. For additional questions Anker says customers can email support@ with "Anker A1263 Recall" in the subject line or call 800-988-7973. Why portable chargers can be a travel hazard The same reasons that portable charging banks are so easy to carry around are also part of why they can pose a problem. Most use lithium ion technology, which can be used to make battery-based products lighter and efficient, but is also susceptible to overheating or even fires if the batteries are damaged or have degraded. It's not unlike reports a decade ago of cheap batteries on hoverboards spontaneously combusting. Eventually, the products were banned on planes and in some cases, from being shipped. "These products are typically unassuming, and are not something that the average consumer thinks can be potentially dangerous," said Don Fountain, a civil trial attorney and the author of Defect Safety, a book about consumer safety and defective products. Fountain is currently representing a case involving portable batteries that does not involve Anker. "My firm has handled fires and explosions caused by lithium batteries in a variety of products, including power tools, e-bikes, phones, scooters, children's toys, battery packs and others," Fountain said. "I would caution consumers to not store or use these products in a confined or unventilated area that could cause overheating and to not leave these products plugged into home electrical systems for extended periods of periods of time, such as overnight or when on vacation." Fountain said combusting batteries are especially dangerous in cargo holds or in the cabins of airplanes where it may be difficult to put out a fire. The attorney said that in the case of Anker's recall, customers don't always keep their proof of purchase, though it's not required in this case. However, he said, "It is unusual that proof of disposal is required for a recall payment or reimbursement." "Most people that have had an overheating event or a small fire will simply throw the unit away before ever thinking about contacting the manufacturer for a recall reimbursement," Fountain said.
The Sun
13-06-2025
- The Sun
Urgent ‘fire risk' recall for popular gadget bought by 1.1MILLION customers that can melt and spark blazes
AN URGENT "fire risk" recall has been issued for a popular gadget bought by 1.1 million customers. The product may melt and spark blazes due to a manufacturing defect. 2 Anker Innovations have recalled the Anker 321 Power Bank (PowerCore 5K, Black) A1112. It has been discovered that some of the lithium-ion batteries used in their A1112 Anker 321 Power Banks (PowerCore 5K, Black) may pose a fire safety risk due to a manufacturing defect. The lithium-ion battery in the affected power banks can overheat, potentially causing melting of plastic components, smoke and fire hazards. The company have said: "Although only a small number of batteries may be affected by this issue. "Out of an abundance of caution, we are reaching out to all customers who purchased the product between March 1, 2023 and June 6, 2024 to begin a Recall program." Anker has reported this issue to CPSC and is presently working with the recall. If your power bank is verified (based on the SN) as having one of the affected battery cells, they will send you a new one as a replacement. How to check if you own the affected Power Bank Model You can verify the model of your power bank (Black) by looking at the bottom of it and confirm that it reads: Anker 321 Power Bank (PowerCore 5K, Black), Model: A1112. What to do if you own an Anker 321 Power Bank (PowerCore 5K, Black) Model: A1112 1. Store the device in a safe location. 2. Click here to verify your SN, and if it matches, please continue to fill out your product recall information. 3. Immediately stop using this product. DO NOT throw the power bank into the trash or recycling bin. Please dispose of your device at a facility that accepts lithium batteries. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact support@ Please include 'Anker 321 Power Bank Recall' in the subject line Your product recall rights Chief consumer reporter James Flanders reveals all you need to know. Product recalls are an important means of protecting consumers from dangerous goods. As a general rule, if a recall involves a branded product, the manufacturer would usually have lead responsibility for the recall action. But it's often left up to supermarkets to notify customers when products could put them at risk. If you are concerned about the safety of a product you own, always check the manufacturer's website to see if a safety notice has been issued. When it comes to appliances, rather than just food items, the onus is usually on you - the customer - to register the appliance with the manufacturer as if you don't there is no way of contacting you to tell you about a fault. If you become aware that an item you own has been recalled or has any safety noticed issued against it, make sure you follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. They should usually provide you with more information and a contact number on its safety notice. In some cases, the manufacturer might ask you to return the item for a full refund or arrange for the faulty product to be collected. You should not be charged for any recall work - such as a repair, replacement or collection of the recalled item The company also offers telephone support. Meanwhile, A home decoration product sold by Wayfair which is described as being 'warm and soothing' has been urgently recalled due to a 'high risk of electric shock'. And LIDL has issued an urgent recall over fears a popular breakfast item contains pieces of metal. Plus, an urgent warning was issued yesterday to UK shops selling a popular sweet product. The Food Standards Agency warned businesses to
Digital Trends
13-06-2025
- Digital Trends
Anker recalls a million power banks over fire risk — here's what to do
Anker is recalling more than a million of its PowerCore 10000 power banks due to a risk of overheating that could lead to fire and burns. The tech company has received 19 reports of fires and explosions linked to the power bank, which contains lithium-ion batteries. Two of the reports relate to minor burn injuries and required medical attention, while a further 11 reports cite property damage totaling more than $60,000, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Recommended Videos Affected units — about 1,158,000 in all — were sold online in the U.S. by Anker, Amazon, Newegg, and Ebay from June 2016 through December 2022 for about $27. Anyone who owns a recalled PowerCore 10000 power bank is urged to stop using it immediately and to take steps to receive a free replacement. What to do If you have Anker's PowerCore 10000 power bank, here's what you need to know: – First, check the model number. Only certain units are affected, specifically those with the model number A1263, which you'll find printed on the bottom of the device. – If you have a faulty unit, you can get a replacement. To receive it, you won't be asked to send the power bank to Anker. Instead, you'll need to submit a photo of the recalled unit that shows the model number, serial number, your name, the date the photo was taken, and the word 'recalled' written on the power bank in permanent marker. Anker has detailed instructions on its website explaining exactly how to apply. – A purchase receipt will be requested but will not be required to participate in the recall. – Whatever you do, don't throw your faulty power bank in the trash. Recalled lithium-ion batteries have to be carefully disposed of as they present a greater risk of fire. Your municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center may accept it — get in touch to find out. Consumers will be required to confirm safe disposal of the power bank before receiving a replacement. If you want to speak to someone at Anker for clarification on anything regarding the recall, you can call toll-free at 800-988-7973 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to support@
CNET
12-06-2025
- CNET
Anker Recalls PowerCore 10000 Power Banks Because of Fire Risks: What to Know
The electronics maker Anker recalled its PowerCore 10000 power banks with the model number A1263 after receiving 19 reports of fires and explosions. According to an alert posted Thursday by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, more than 1.1 million of the products sold in the US are affected by the recall. The company plans to replace the charging devices, but customers who have them must submit photo evidence of ownership and also prove that they've disposed of the PowerCore devices properly before receiving a replacement. It recommends contacting a local hazardous waste collection center versus disposing of it in the trash or through standard recycling services. In addition to instructing customers to stop using the chargers immediately, the CPSC says: To receive a replacement, consumers will be required to submit a photo of their recalled power bank showing the model number, serial number, their name, the date of the photograph, and the word "recalled" written on the power bank in permanent marker. A purchase receipt will be requested but will not be required to participate in the recall. Consumers will also be required to confirm disposal of the power bank in accordance with applicable laws and regulations before receiving a replacement. The PowerCore, made in China, is one of four current power bank recalls that have been issued by Anker. The others include the 334 MagGo 10K battery, the 321 Power Bank (5K) and the 535 Power Bank (20K). Airlines have taken note of portable battery hazards. Recently, Southwest Airlines changed its policy on charging devices inside of cary-on bags. Some international airlines have also begun limiting the types of lithium chargers fliers can bring on planes due to risks of overheating.
Gizmodo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
This 42,800mAh Solar Power Bank Is 40% Off, Amazon Is Selling Out Fast Before Month's End
Relying on a portable charger is a convenience many can appreciate, but that convenience goes even further when solar charging is included: not only will you save money on electricity, but you can also take a step toward living more sustainably. Currently, there's a great solar power bank on sale at Amazon with a charging capacity of 42,800mAh that supports both solar charging and USB charging. This solar power bank is available on Amazon right now for $24, down from its regular price of $39, meaning you're getting a great price with a 38% discount. The unit has over 9,000 sold in the past month and it is currently the #1 selling cell phone solar charger on Amazon. See at Amazon Massive (Solar) Battery The coolest thing about the charger is the size of the battery: It is a whopping 42,800mAh! This is well above the typical portable charger (usually between 10,000 and 20,000mAh) and will allow you to charge your smartphone, tablet (iPad) or AirPods several times before the power bank itself needs to be charged. This is a powerful portable solar charger that uses high-density batteries that are able to pack that high capacity and light weight. For charging capability, the power bank has two USB output ports with QC3.0 fast charging in qualified devices. Thus, you can charge two devices at the same time, and cut down charging times. This charger is also made of strong professional ABS with a chemical resistance, heat-resistant, high elasticity, and toughness. This product is also IP67 rated for waterproof, drop-proof and dust-proof. It has superior durable solar cell battery design for adverse outdoor conditions. It is also a great power bank for an adventurous person. The solar panel on the charger is quite efficient for an emergency power source. While solar charging speed depends on sunlight intensity and duration, the built-in solar panel can generate current to slowly recharge the battery when exposed to sunlight. However, because of the charger's large battery capacity, solar charging is best viewed as a backup option rather than the primary charging method. For everyday use, it's recommended to recharge the power bank via USB with a charger that provides at least 5V/2A to ensure faster and more efficient charging. See at Amazon
