Smartphone accessory brand Anker has recalled three wireless speakers: the Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker in black and two PowerConf S3 Bluetooth Speakers. The impacted devices sport model numbers A3102016, A3302011, and A3302031, respectively.
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the speakers have faulty lithium-ion batteries that “can overheat, posing a fire hazard.” The CPSC states it has “received 33 reports of incidents” involving the hardware emitting smoke, starting a small fire, and, in one instance, causing minor burns to an individual.
Also: This portable Bluetooth speaker might not be a Bose or JBL, but it still delivers the bass
These devices were sold exclusively on Amazon from March to October 2023. Prices ranged from $28 to $130. About 69,000 units were sold in the United States, and about 9,674 speakers were sold in Canada. The CPSC is asking people to stop using the recalled hardware immediately. Ensure the speakers are powered off and aren’t connected to a wall charger or external power source.
<!–>
A faulty device can be identified by its SN Code on the bottom of the Bluetooth speaker. Once you have the number, go to Anker’s support page, contact the company, and fill out the product recall information. Anker will then provide instructions on obtaining a replacement speaker for free.
Also: One of the most immersive speakers I’ve tested is not made by Sonos or JBL (and it’s on sale)
If your Soundcore unit isn’t one of the recalled models, you’re safe, but if you’re still worried, we suggest contacting Anker just to be sure. It never hurts to double-check.
The affected models.
Anker/ZDNET
Do not, under any circumstances, throw the recalled device into the trash or an electronic recycling box at retail stores. Again, these devices are fire hazards. To safely dispose of a defective speaker, the CPSC recommends going to a municipal recycling center for damaged and recalled lithium batteries. Head to the US Environmental Protection Agency’s website to “find a recycling location near you.”
Also: I’ve tested dozens of Bluetooth speakers, and the bass on this one nearly knocked me off my feet
If you’re feeling a sense of déjà vu, this is the third time in 2024 that Anker has issued a recall over faulty batteries. The first recall was for the 321 Power Bank (PowerCore 5K), the A3302 AnkerWork PowerConf S3 speakerphone, and the A3102 Soundcore Bluetooth speaker in early June. Then in September, the company recalled the 334 MagGo Battery (PowerCore 10K), the Power Bank pack, and the MagGo Power Bank.
Three recalls for a popular brand like this is shocking. Just what is going on at Anker? So far, the brand has yet to make an official statement although we did reach out for comment. We’ll update this story if we hear back at a later date.
Source: Robotics - zdnet.com
