This year has seen several powerbank manufacturers recall several models due to fire risks. Airline policies also require powerbanks to be removed from bags when in the cabin to prevent recurring fire issues.
Recently, China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will issue new guidelines that require powerbanks not only to be equipped with screens but also to have app support for safety purposes.
This new standard will bypass the 3C standard used (and printed on the back) of every powerbank produced by Chinese companies. With a built-in screen, the battery charge level can be seen more accurately than the LED system. Using the app will also allow users to check the charging life cycle and battery health.
Manufacturers will also have to print the recommended usage life of the powerbank with an expiration date. The standard will be published in February 2026 and is expected to come into effect as early as June 2026. The requirement of this standard will have a major impact on China's powerbank industry with an estimated 70% of manufacturers will not meet the set requirements.
Powerbanks with LCDs have started appearing in the Malaysian market since last year and Anker was among the first to offer an app for their powerbanks that shows the battery health level.
