EE Will Not Restart Free Smartphone Power Bar Offer

EE has confirmed reports it will not restart its free power bar programme after it was forced to recall more than 1.1 million chargers last December over safety concerns.

Any EE customer was eligible for the device, while non-subscribers could purchase one for £20. As part of the promotion, any power bar could be exchanged for an identical fully charged unit at an EE retail store.

Such power bars are common among smartphone users who find modern handsets cannot offer a full day’s charge through normal use, and fear battery drain.

EE power bar

The power bars were popular, but certain versions were recalled after one customer suffered severe burns after her unit caught fire in the middle of the night, prompting an “urgent investigation.”

Customers were urged to return their power bars to any EE store in exchange for a £20 voucher after EE said there was an issue with a “very small number” of devices that could cause overheating.

The offer of a free voucher has now expired and EE has told TechWeekEurope that it has no plans to launch a replacement offer.

“Our EE Power Bar promotion had a hugely positive response from our customers, however after careful consideration we’ve decided not to bring it back,” said an EE spokesperson. “We still sell a wide range of chargers and power packs to keep our customer connected.

“We’ll share news shortly about ways to stay connected at Glastonbury and the summer festival season, as well as some exciting new loyalty offers throughout the summer.”

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