iPhone 14 Pro Max Bursts Into Flames While Charging; Burns Woman Severely
In a deeply unsettling incident in Shanxi, China, a woman suffered severe burns when her iPhone 14 Pro Max unexpectedly exploded while she was sleeping. The explosion occurred around 6:30 AM, as the woman lay in bed with her phone charging next to her. When she turned over in her sleep, her hand brushed against the flames, waking her up in shock and pain. The fire caused burns on her hand, and the scene around her was devastating, her bedding was scorched, the walls of her apartment were blackened by smoke, and the iPhone was completely charred. Early investigations point to a possible battery malfunction as the cause of the explosion, emphasizing the risks of charging devices while unattended, especially near combustible items like bedding.
iPhone 14 Pro Max apparently exploded while charging,
causing severe burns!#Apple pic.twitter.com/lQ8EG0vP2B— choqao (@choqao) November 4, 2024
The woman had purchased the iPhone 14 Pro Max in 2022, so it was no longer covered by the warranty at the time of the explosion. Nevertheless, she is determined to understand what went wrong, seeking answers and potentially compensation for the injuries she sustained and the extensive damage to her apartment. Her case raises important questions about the safety of smartphone batteries and the common practice of charging phones overnight.
Apple has responded with caution but concern. Upon learning about the incident, the company expressed sympathy and assured the woman that they would retrieve the phone for a detailed investigation into what caused the malfunction. While it remains unclear whether the iPhone’s battery was an original Apple component or a third-party replacement, Apple has committed to investigating all potential safety risks associated with their products. It’s also uncertain whether factors like prior repairs or the use of non-certified accessories might have contributed to the incident.
This alarming event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with charging electronic devices, particularly smartphones. Experts urge people not to charge their phones overnight or leave them near flammable materials like bedding. They also recommend using only certified chargers and avoiding third-party accessories to minimize the risk of malfunctioning batteries or faulty components.
Though incidents like smartphone battery explosions are rare, this case highlights the need for stricter safety regulations and better quality control in the production of these devices. As smartphones become more integrated into our daily lives, manufacturers must prioritize user safety and work to ensure that their products are built to prevent such dangerous failures.
As Apple continues to investigate the cause of the explosion, further updates about potential recalls or product adjustments may be announced. In the meantime, users are advised to be extra cautious when charging their devices, to look out for any signs of battery issues, and to avoid charging phones in places where they could pose a fire risk.
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