In a critical safety alert, Anker Innovations Limited announced a recall involving its popular A3102 Anker Soundcore and A3302 PowerConf S3 Bluetooth speakers due to a potential fire hazard stemming from overheating lithium-ion batteries. Approximately 69,000 units sold in the United States along with about 9,764 in Canada are included in this recall, which impacts speakers sold exclusively on Amazon during 2023.
The specific models affected are the A3102016, A3302011, and A3302031. Customers can identify their units through the serial number (SN Code) located on the underside of the speakers. Anker has provided an easy way for consumers to check if their products are recalled by visiting their official recall page at https://www.anker.com/product-recalls, where users can enter their SN Code for confirmation.
Reports indicate that Anker has received at least 33 complaints regarding incidents of the lithium-ion batteries overheating, with some reports involving smoking, small fires, and one case of a minor burn injury linked to an overheating unit. Given the nature of the hazard, Anker, along with Amazon, has reached out to all known purchasers to advise them on the recall process.
Consumers are strongly urged to stop using the affected speakers immediately, ensuring they are turned off and disconnected from any power sources or chargers. Anker has stated that those whose products are recalled will receive further information regarding the procedure to obtain a free replacement speaker.
It is crucial for consumers to dispose of the recalled speakers properly, following local and state regulations regarding damaged or defective lithium-ion batteries. These batteries necessitate special handling in order to mitigate any risk of injury or property damage. Anker requests that individuals do not throw the recalled items in the trash or place them in standard recycling bins available at retail stores. Instead, disposal instructions can be found at municipal recycling centers, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
This recall serves as a significant reminder of the safety concerns associated with lithium-ion battery-powered devices. As these batteries are ubiquitous in consumer electronics, their potential to overheat and cause fires warrants attention from manufacturers, consumers, and regulatory agencies alike.
For additional guidance and to validate the details of your speaker’s SN code, Anker has established a customer support contact page available at https://support.anker.com/s/emailcontactus. Safeguarding consumer safety remains a priority for Anker as they navigate this situation and work alongside Amazon to mitigate risks presented by these devices.
The urgency of this recall underscores the importance of consumer awareness regarding product safety and the need for proactive measures when dealing with electronic devices equipped with lithium-ion batteries.