In a shocking incident, an iPhone 14 Pro Max exploded in Shanxi, China, while charging overnight. The incident left a woman with severe burns and caused significant damage to her room, raising concerns about the safety of electronic devices.
Details of the Incident
The explosion occurred at around 6:30 AM while the woman was asleep. The device, plugged in for charging overnight, caught fire unexpectedly. As the woman turned over in her sleep, her hand came into contact with the flames, causing painful burns and waking her up.
The fire spread quickly, burning her blanket and blackening the walls of her room. Firefighters were called to the scene and extinguished the flames, which had already caused significant damage.
Apple’s Response
The woman had purchased the iPhone 14 Pro Max in 2022, and it was out of warranty at the time of the incident. Despite this, Apple has expressed concern and is investigating the matter. The company has requested that the damaged device be sent back for analysis to determine the cause of the explosion.
Apple emphasized its commitment to safety and indicated that findings from the investigation would guide potential improvements in device safety standards.
Concerns About Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in smartphones, are known to carry risks of overheating and, in rare cases, explosion. Factors such as manufacturing defects, damage, or prolonged charging can contribute to such failures.
Preventive Measures Suggested
While the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation, experts recommend the following precautions for device users:
- Avoid charging devices overnight or unattended.
- Use certified chargers and accessories.
- Keep electronic devices in ventilated areas during charging.
Conclusion
This incident has reignited concerns about the safety of electronic devices, particularly those with lithium-ion batteries. While such occurrences are rare, the consequences can be severe, emphasizing the importance of robust safety standards and user awareness.
Apple’s investigation will be closely watched for insights into what caused the explosion and how such incidents can be prevented in the future.
