Anker is recalling another five power banks over fire risks
Anker has issued its second product recall so far this month, warning customers that five additional power bank models should stop being used 'immediately due to the risk of overheating, melting, smoke, or fire.'
'While the likelihood of malfunction is considered minimal, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to initiate a voluntary global recall of several Anker power bank models,' Anker announced. The concerns mirror those that Anker mentioned in its earlier recall of model A1263 PowerCore 10000 power banks sold in the US, with the company announcing that it has identified a 'potential issue' with lithium-ion batteries provided by one of its suppliers.
The following products are affected by the recall and can be identified by locating the model number on the back or side of the device:
Anker is offering affected customers in the US the choice of a free replacement power bank or a gift card to use on the Anker website. You can claim these by submitting a recall claim form on Anker's website alongside a verified product serial number or proof of purchase.
While Anker flagged purchase dates between June 1st, 2016 and December 31st, 2022 for the model A1263 recall earlier this month, it hasn't detailed a similar timeline for the additional five power banks, which are mostly more recent models. Some were still available to buy prior to the company's latest announcement.
Anker says that any power banks affected by this recall need to be safely disposed of at a facility that accepts lithium-ion batteries. Due to the risk of fires, these should not be thrown away in general trash, recycling bins, or at the used battery boxes provided at various retail locations.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission said it has received 19 reports of fires and explosions related to the model A1263 recall earlier this month. It's currently unclear if similar reports have been made regarding the other power banks that Anker is recalling, but given the speedy recall and global escalation, the company appears to be taking the concerns seriously. Anker says global regulatory authorities have been formally notified to ensure the recall is compliant with local guidelines.
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