Anker makes some of the best power banks we’ve tested, but the company seems to be having more and more problems with manufacturing defects, with three more smartphone spare batteries recalled.
In June, Anker announced that it was recalling its popular 321 Power Bank, along with the Soundcore A3102 speaker and A3302 speakerphone, due to potential fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries. And now, as noted by Android Policethe company has announced a similar recall for three other battery packs.
Those models are the Anker 334 MagGo Battery (PowerCore 10K), Anker Power Bank, and Anker MagGo Power Bank. Anker says that while “only a small number of batteries may be affected by this issue” (a batch of products produced between January 3 and September 17), it is “contacting all customers to initiate a recall program.”
That’s because all three “may pose a fire hazard due to a manufacturing defect” that causes overheating. If you’re unsure whether you own one of these models, double-check the bottom of the battery for model numbers A1642, A1647, or A1652. If you’re unfortunate enough to own one, Anker has revealed what steps you should take.
First, you should stop using it and store it “in a safe place” and definitely do not throw the power bank in the trash or recycling. You can also fill out Anker’s recall form to start the process of getting a replacement.
Anker’s recall also includes region-specific advice on how to safely dispose of your defective power bank, depending on where you live.
Feeling the heat
If you own an Anker power bank other than the models listed above, this news may still be cause for concern. However, Anker says there’s no cause for concern for owners of other models.
For the three affected models (A1642, A1647, A1652), Anker says “the issues originated with our previous supplier” and that “we have changed suppliers and are now conducting a thorough review of our quality assurance processes to prevent this from happening again in the future.”
For owners of other batteries, Anker says you can “continue to use your device with confidence.” Another recall so soon after the company’s previous one in June is still alarming, though thankfully none of the models in our guide to the best power banks are affected.
We still recommend these models for now, but if this news concerns you, you might be better off opting for alternative brands like Baseus, Satechi, or Belkin.
