Recent reports about smartphone accidents involving injuries, electric shocks and explosions have been escalating in the internet. Consumers would like to think that such incidents are isolated cases but exploding smartphones aren't so rare today having more than 2 cases a month.
A reported incident of an iPhone 6 which caught fire in Gareth Clear's back pocket escalated in the internet last August 1, 2016. Similarly, a Reddit user by the name of 'kroopthesnoop' also showed pictures of a new iPhone 7 that caught fire even before it was delivered to its owner. This time, another case which happened October 1 concerns an iPhone 6 bursting in flames in Darin Hlavaty's back Pocket causing him leg injuries.
What is the Truth Behind iPhone Explosions?
Some may say that the recent iPhone explosions might be a gimmick to harm Apple's reputation. The issue among recent iPhone explosions has caused stir among the iPhone 6 and 7 users and are wondering if Apple is also heading towards a global recall. A report from 9to5Mac said that though numerous iPhone explosions were reported, still the company considers those events as isolated cases deeming that once in a while unfortunate set of events can happen to anyone.
According to CNET, one reason may be because of the lithium ion batteries in iPhones which can explode when they overheat, short circuit or take impact.
According to Dan Doughty of Battery Safety Consulting, "lithium-ion batteries fail at a rate of around one in 10 million. With a production rate of around 6 billion batteries per year, that works out to an average of 600 failures annually."
The first iPhone flare up last August 1 involving Gareth Clear happened after he fell on his bicycle. The explosion resulted in third degree burns to Clear's right thigh, which required skin grafts. The second case happened as the iPhone package was about to be delivered to its owner. Kroopthesnoop posted several photos of the burnt out iPhone 7 Plus upon receiving the package. The last reported incident is an iPhone 6 Plus which burst into flames during class while it was in the back pocket of Darin Hlavaty.
Although Apple hasn't provided a statement relating to the said cases, the company confirmed that they are investigating on the issue.
