Apple recalls 1.1 million battery packs

CUPERTINO, Calif., Aug. 24 (UPI) -- California's Apple Computer Co. said Thursday it was recalling 1.1 million battery packs because the lithium-ion batteries may overheat.

Such overheating may pose a fire hazard to consumers, Apple said. Apple has received nine reports of batteries overheating, including two reports of minor burns from handling overheated computers and other reports of minor property damage. No serious injuries were reported.

The recalled batteries, made by Sony Energy Devices Corp., were used in 12-inch iBook G4, 12-inch PowerBook G4 and 15-inch PowerBook G4.

Consumers should remove the battery from the computer to view the model and serial numbers labeled on the bottom of the unit.

Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Apple to arrange for a replacement battery, free of charge. After removing the recalled battery from their iBook or PowerBook, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives.

Questions may be directed to Apple at 800-275-2273.