Some Anker USB-C Cables Are Getting Recalled For A Hardware-Frying Flaw

You’re probably going to have to start using USB-C cables for some gadgets in the near future, but you should probably be careful which ones you buy. Diligent engineers have found a flaw in some Anker USB cables that can destroy hardware.

As engineer Nathan K shows in the above video, Anker’s Powerline 3.1 Gen2 cable has a flaw that causes it to “remember” the charging voltage for a laptop that it’s plugged into, then accidentally provide that higher voltage to a phone unless it’s unplugged from the more powerful charging base. This can overload your phone and destroy it, if the phone isn’t equipped to handle more than 5 volts.

Anker has already replied with the following recall:

We are offering all of our PowerLine USB-C A8185011 users a full refund. In addition, we would like to offer a free Anker PowerLine USB-C cable to affected customers once we have improved Anker PowerLine USB-C A8185011.

This isn’t the first time that we’ve seen a problem with cables and quick chargers using the higher voltage capabilities of USB-C. Unfortunately, not all accessory manufacturers have tested everything as thoroughly as they should before they go out. USB-C cables are still relatively new compared to more established standards and hopefully manufacturers get their stuff in order before too long. Still, it’s worth reading reviews on USB-C cables before you buy, lest you lose some expensive hardware.

Anker issues recall and replacements after researcher demonstrates unsafe USB-C cables [Android Police]