Anker just announced another recall for five of its wildly popular portable power banks, and you need to check yours because there's a good chance you have one. This is Anker's second recall this month, but the company says it's only out of an "abundance of caution." Here's what to know and how to get yours replaced.
If you have specific models of the Anker MagGo or the wildly affordable Anker Zolo power bank, you need to check the model number on the back of the unit and stop using it "immediately due to the risk of overheating, melting, smoke, or fire." And while Anker then goes on to say that the risk is minimal and this is only a cautionary measure, it's still not good news.
The following power banks are affected by the recall. The product number can be found by checking the back or side of the device. For example, I have an Anker Zolo 20K, but thankfully, my product number isn't on the recall list, but yours could be.
- Anker Power Bank (10K) — Model A1257
- Anker Power Bank (20,000mAh, Built-In USB-C Cable) — Model A1647
- Anker MagGo Power Bank (10,000mAh) — Model A1652
- Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cable) — Model A1681
- Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, Built-In USB-C Cable) — Model A1689
"Earlier this year, Anker implemented a series of enhanced quality assurance protocols designed to detect manufacturing issues earlier in the production cycle. These safeguards—including expanded component-level audits and supplier testing—helped us identify a potential issue with common lithium-ion battery cells from a single vendor. 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."
If you have one of the above-mentioned Anker power banks you must stop using it immediately. Thankfully, Anker will provide a complete replacement or a gift card for Anker.com so customers can get something else to keep all their gadgets charged up. You can claim your free replacement by submitting a recall claim form and proof of purchase.
Additionally, it's worth noting that anyone with an affected unit needs to dispose of the battery pack safely. You can't just toss it in the garbage, as that's unsafe and could lead to fires or explosions. Interestingly enough, Anker also discourages using those battery drop-boxes, like you'll find at select big-box hardware stores. Instead, Anker recommends finding a nearby location that officially accepts lithium-ion batteries, especially one that can handle recalled products.
While I still love all my Anker products, this is starting to become a frustrating theme. In 2024, the company issued global recalls for three other power banks and faced a similar situation with its Bluetooth speaker batteries. So, dig out your portable battery and look at those product numbers to be safe.
Source: Anker
