Verizon, along with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), issued a withdrawal of about 2.5 million Ellipsis Jetpack hotspots, as they literally become too hot to be handled.
To date, Verizon has received 15 reports of device overheating, six of which have resulted in fire damage to bedding or floors, according to the CPSC. There were also two reports of minor burns. The problem seems to be related to the lithium-ion battery, which can overheat. On Verizon statement, the affected models are MHS900L, MHS900LS and MHS900LPP and were imported by Franklin Wireless Corp. The hot spots mentioned are made of dark brown plastic, have an oval shape and measure 3.5 inches wide and 2.25 inches high. The units were sold to Verizon stores nationwide for customers, as well as other stores and school districts, from April 2017 to March this year.
If you have one of these units, Verizon is offering free replacements for an Orbic Speed device. You can also visit Verizon’s reminder page to find more details on how to change the hotspot or call 855-205-2627.
Hot spots became a popular choice once it hit the pandemic. In particular, they served as a school tape trying to provide internet access for 17 million students who lack the internet at home for distance learning. If you have received one of the recalled Ellipsis Jetpack hotspots from a school, CPSC recommends that you contact the school for additional instructions and shipping packages to return your device safely.
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Meanwhile, Verizon has removed two over-the-air updates for affected devices. One allows you to more easily find the IMEI number of the device – which is needed to change the hotspot – while the other reduces the chances of overheating, preventing the device from charging while it is turned on and connected.
Obviously, the best course of action is to return the device as soon as possible. However, if it is your only source of internet connectivity, there are a few things you can do until a return is possible. After receiving updates, the CPSC recommends, leave the device is turned on while connected. When not in use, the device must be switched off, disconnected and stored in a safe area away from children. Verizon also recommends storing the device on “flat, solid, and durable” surfaces away from extreme temperatures. And while the problem is with the battery, consumers shouldn’t try to get rid of it themselves.