Apple recalls MacBook batteries

Apple has launched a worldwide product exchange programme for the rechargeable batteries supplied with its 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops.

In a statement posted to Apple's Web site over the weekend, the company explained it had recently discovered that some 15-inch MacBook Pro batteries supplied to Apple did not meet its performance standards.

The batteries will be replaced free of charge, via Apple's Web site. They were sold between February and May 2006, and have model number A1175 and a 12-digit serial number that ends with U7SA, U7SB or U7SC.

Apple insists the batteries are not a safety risk, and that existing batteries can be used until a replacement arrives. The company also says that no other MacBook Pro or MacBook batteries are affected by the problem.

Safety concerns over laptop batteries heightened last month when images were posted online of a Dell laptop that burst into flames, apparently because of a battery fault.