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PSA: Verizon is recalling millions of hotspots due to electrical fire hazards
- Today Verizon announced a large hotspot recall. The recall stems from potential fire hazards the devices present.
- The recall directly applies to Ellipsis Jetpack models MHS900L, MHS900LS, and MHS900LPP.
- Verizon is pushing a software patch that will mitigate potential issues but is also offering free replacements.
For years now, Verizon has offered standalone hotspot devices under its Jetpack branding. The “hockey puck” hotspots allow you to connect multiple non-LTE devices to the Verizon network.
Unfortunately, it appears a slew of those hotspots pose a fire hazard. Today, the company announced a recall for three of its most popular models. The Verizon hotspot recall applies to the following Ellipsis Jetpacks:
- MHS900L
- MHS900LS
- MHS900LPP
If you know you own one of these devices, you can head to any Verizon store and exchange it for a replacement. You can also visit this site for more information. Verizon did not say whether the replacement would be the same model or a different one.
What if you need to use your hotspot and don’t have time to exchange it at the moment? Not to worry: Verizon is pushing a software update to the affected devices that will mitigate potential fires. The update will prevent the hotspot from charging while in use. If you have it plugged in while it is connected to the network, it will only draw from battery power. To charge it, you’ll need to shut it down.
The update will also make it easy to see your device’s model number right on the display so your future exchange can go quickly.
According to the Verizon hotspot recall press release, the hazard stems from the lithium-ion batteries inside. They apparently can overheat, which can then cause a fire.