Apple recalls notebook batteries

Apple have issued a recall of batteries from its iBook G4 and PowerBook G4 notebook range due to a potential fire hazard.

The recall is of lithium ion rechargeable batteries sold worldwide from October 2004 to May 2005. The batteries were used with the company's 12-inch iBook G4, as well as both 12 and 15-inch models of the PowerBook G4.

According to the Apple website, the affected batteries could overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The company has advised owners not to use the recalled products and has set up a free exchange program via its website.

Apple has received six consumer reports of batteries overheating worldwide.

The recalled batteries were manufactured by LG Chem of South Korea and have the model numbers A1061, A1078, and A1079 and serial numbers that begin with HQ441 through HQ507 and 3X446 through 3X510.

Local Apple representatives declined to comment.