Chinese electronics giant Xiaomi has issued an urgent voluntary recall for nearly 150,000 of its popular power banks after discovering a defect that could cause the devices to overheat and catch fire under extreme conditions. The Xiaomi power bank recall affects a specific batch of the PB2030MI model and represents a significant safety concern for consumers who rely on these devices to power their gadgets.
The company has filed the recall with the Beijing Municipal Administration for Market Regulation and is urging customers to immediately stop using the affected units.
This article provides all the essential details: which specific model is affected, how to check if your unit is part of the recall, and the steps to get a full refund.
Recall Details: Which Power Banks Are Affected?
The recall is highly specific and does not affect all Xiaomi power banks. Here’s what you need to know, based on the report from TechNode:
- Model Name: Xiaomi PB2030MI Power Bank
- Total Units Recalled: 146,891
- Production Dates: The affected units were all produced between August 1, 2024, and September 22, 2024.
If you purchased a Xiaomi power bank around that time, it is crucial that you check if your device is part of this recall.
The Technical Problem: A Defective Battery Cell
The root cause of the fire risk has been traced back to a specific component. Xiaomi identified that certain units using a 126280-type 2.0 battery cell from one of its suppliers are defective. Under “extreme conditions” which could include high temperatures, physical impact, or overcharging—these specific cells have the potential to short-circuit internally, leading to overheating and, in the worst-case scenario, a fire.
This incident is a stark reminder of the complexities of modern supply chains and the inherent risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, a core component in nearly all modern gadgets. Even a small defect in a single batch of cells can lead to a massive and costly safety recall.
What to Do Now: How to Check Your Device and Get a Refund
Xiaomi has set up a clear process for customers to check their devices and claim a refund.
- Find Your Serial Number: Locate the serial number on your PB2030MI power bank. It is usually printed in small text on the bottom or side of the device.
- Check the Serial Number: You can verify if your device is affected in two ways:
- Open the Xiaomi Store app, navigate to the recall section, and enter the serial number.
- Call the customer service hotline provided on Xiaomi’s official website for your region.
- Claim Your Refund: If your device is confirmed to be part of the recall, Xiaomi will provide a full refund based on the retail price of RMB 159 ($22). Follow the instructions provided by customer service.
It is critical to stop using the device immediately if you suspect it might be one of the affected units.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the exact model of the recalled Xiaomi power bank?
The recall is for the Xiaomi PB2030MI Power Bank produced between August 1 and September 22, 2024.
2. What should I do if my power bank is affected?
You should immediately stop using it and unplug it from any devices. Then, follow the steps provided by Xiaomi to verify your serial number and claim a full refund.
3. Is it safe to continue using my power bank if it seems to be working fine?
No. The defect poses a fire risk under “extreme conditions,” which can happen unexpectedly. It is not safe to continue using a recalled product.
4. How do I find the official recall information from Xiaomi?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should visit the official Xiaomi website for your country or region and look for a link to “Product Recalls” or “Safety Notices.” You can also check the official reports from your country’s market regulation authority.