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Xiaomi initiates proactive recall for a popular 33W power bank
Xiaomi has announced a voluntary recall affecting almost 146,900 units of its PB2030MI power bank after identifying a potential battery stability issue. The affected model is a 20,000mAh portable charger capable of up to 33W output and includes an integrated cable — a best-seller among users who need fast, reliable mobile charging.
What’s affected and why it matters
According to Xiaomi, a limited subset of PB2030MI units manufactured during August–September 2024 contain a version 2.0 build of the 126280 battery cell. Under sustained heavy use, that specific cell variant has the potential to become unstable. No incidents or injuries have been reported to date, but Xiaomi is pulling the batch to eliminate risk and protect customers proactively.
Product features (PB2030MI)
- Capacity: 20,000mAh
- Maximum output: up to 33W fast charging
- Built-in charging cable for convenience
- Compact design aimed at travelers and power users
Comparisons with other Xiaomi power banks
Other Xiaomi power bank models remain unaffected because they use different battery cell types and suppliers. In contrast to the recalled PB2030MI batch, unaffected units deploy cells that passed Xiaomi’s standard validation and quality-control tests. For consumers deciding between models, capacity, maximum wattage, and cell supplier traceability are now more important purchase criteria.
Refunds, returns and how to check your unit
Xiaomi is offering a full refund of 159 yuan (about $22) for owners of qualifying PB2030MI units. There are two return options:
- In-store: Bring the power bank to an authorized Xiaomi Home store. Staff will verify the model and serial number and process the refund.
- Online: Complete the return online by fully discharging the power bank, providing photographic proof of safe battery disposal (if required), and submitting the product details through Xiaomi’s online portal.
To determine eligibility, users must check the model and serial number printed on the back of the device. Xiaomi also provides a digital lookup tool to verify recall status. Units with missing or unreadable serial numbers are not eligible for the refund.
Advantages of Xiaomi’s proactive approach
By recalling the batch before any reported failures, Xiaomi reduces customer risk and avoids escalation from isolated defects to larger safety incidents. This preemptive consumer-safety policy helps protect brand trust and mitigates potential regulatory and reputation costs.
Use cases and market relevance
The PB2030MI targets commuters, business travelers, and tech enthusiasts who need high-capacity, fast-charging portable power for smartphones, tablets, and USB-C laptops. Even with this recall, demand for high-capacity 33W power banks remains strong as mobile devices increasingly rely on higher-wattage charging standards. The incident also underscores the importance of battery supply-chain transparency and rigorous cell testing for any brand operating in the portable power market.
Final advice for owners
If you purchased a PB2030MI between August and September 2024, check the model and serial number against Xiaomi’s recall tool and follow the instructions for in-store or online return. Even though no incidents have been reported, taking advantage of the refund program is the safest option for affected users.
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