appledeviceCPSC officialMedium PriorityExpired

Apple iBook and PowerBook G4 Battery Recall

Apple is recalling lithium-ion batteries used in older iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 laptops because an internal defect can cause them to overheat and catch fire. If you own one of these computers, you should stop using the affected battery immediately to prevent a potential fire hazard. (Estimated repair/replacement value: $50-100 if not covered by recall program)

By RecallRadar Safety Desk

Sourced from CPSC. Last verified March 4, 2026.

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Key facts

Date announced
May 20, 2005
Source agency
CPSC

This recall affects device functionality. Consider taking action soon.

Plain-English Summary

Apple is recalling lithium-ion batteries used in older iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 laptops because an internal defect can cause them to overheat and catch fire. If you own one of these computers, you should stop using the affected battery immediately to prevent a potential fire hazard. (Estimated repair/replacement value: $50-100 if not covered by recall program)

Is This Recall Still Active?

Status: No - Expired

This recall is no longer active. You can still review details here for historical reference and confirmation.

Apple iBook and PowerBook G4 Battery Recall product image

What's Being Recalled

Quoted source excerpt from the official notice.

The recalled lithium-ion batteries are used with the following computers: 12-inch iBook G4, 12-inch PowerBook G4 and 15-inch PowerBook G4. The recalled batteries include those with model numbers A1061, A1078 and A1079 and serial numbers that begin with HQ441 through HQ507 or 3X446 through 3X510. Consumers should remove the battery from the computer to view the model and serial numbers labeled on the bottom of the unit. No other PowerBook or iBook batteries are involved in this recall. Computer model name Battery model number Battery serial number range 12-inch iBook G4 A1061 HQ441 - HQ507 12-inch PowerBook G4 A1079 3X446 - 3X510 15-inch PowerBook G4 A1078 3X446 - 3X509 Hazard: An internal short can cause the battery cells to overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers. Remedy: 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.

Quick Info

Key facts from the official notice, kept in the article flow for easy cross-checking.

Brand
Apple
Category
device
Source agency
CPSC
Announced
May 20, 2005
Country
US
Status
Expired

Who's Affected

Specific models and identifiers listed in the source notice:

Model #1

Apple iBook G4 Battery

Model #2

Apple PowerBook G4 Battery

Technical model codes are manufacturer identifiers. Match both the product name and model code from your device settings, label, or packaging.

What You Should Do

Follow the remedy path from the official notice using the exact model and serial details above.

  1. 1Check if your iBook G4 or PowerBook G4 has a recalled battery by removing it and checking the model number (A1061, A1078, or A1079) and serial number on the bottom
  2. 2Stop using the recalled battery immediately if your serial number falls within the affected ranges (HQ441-HQ507, 3X446-3X510, or 3X446-3X509)
  3. 3Power your computer using only the AC adapter until you receive a replacement
  4. 4Contact Apple to request a free replacement battery

This program has ended. The official source page may no longer be available.

Source & Verification

This page summarizes the official notice and keeps key facts easy to verify.

Official source
CPSC
Announced by source
May 20, 2005
Last reviewed by RecallRadar
March 4, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are urgent battery warning signs?

Swelling, heat, smoke, odor, or deformation require immediate shutdown.

Where should I place an affected battery?

On a non-flammable surface away from exits, bedrooms, and heat sources.

Can I throw it in household trash?

No. Use official disposal or return instructions from the recall notice.

When do I call emergency services?

Immediately for smoke, fire, or injury risk.

Keep browsing with these internal hubs: apple recall hub and Device recall hub.

Official Resources

Use these primary sources for final eligibility and claim instructions.

View official notice from CPSC

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