power bank

Amprius (Wuxi) Co. Ltd. was penalized by the Wuxi Municipal Market Supervision and Administration Bureau with fines and confiscations of approximately 3.74 million yuan ($520,000 USD) for selling non-compliant power bank batteries. The investigation revealed the company sold improperly certified batteries, failed to re-certify products after material changes, and continued sales during certification suspensions. The crackdown follows recalls of power banks due to fire risks and raises concerns about Amprius’s quality control and its impact on brands like Anker, Romoss, Xiaomi, Ugreen, and Baseus.

Portable power bank company Roman has suspended operations and placed employees on indefinite leave, citing a massive product recall of over 490,000 units due to a defect causing potential overheating and fire hazards. Employees, some having worked extensive overtime, feel abandoned and unpaid. The company’s online store has removed all power banks, focusing only on accessories. Despite denying bankruptcy rumors, these actions signal significant challenges for the former market leader.

China’s new aviation directive bans uncertified power banks, increasing confiscations at airports. Passengers can surrender them, mail them out, or pay for temporary storage (up to seven days at some airports), after which they may be disposed of or sold for charity. Speculation exists regarding the resale of confiscated items online, with some potentially being faulty products.

Anker Innovations is recalling several power bank models (A1642, A1647, A1652, A1680, A1681, A1689, A1257) due to a potential fire hazard. Inspections revealed unauthorized material alterations in battery cells from an external vendor, potentially leading to overheating and combustion. The company has removed affected products from e-commerce platforms and ended its relationship with the supplier. This recall highlights the importance of product safety for the popular brand with a global presence.

Romoss Technology, a leading power bank maker, faces challenges. Numerous 3C certifications for its fast-charging power banks are suspended, with the official Douyin store removing power banks. A recall of over 490,000 power banks is underway due to potential overheating issues, leading to consumer concerns. The recall process, involving potentially problematic postal returns, has also raised further questions.