Australia retailer divested Apple's search trackers due to child safety threat

The Australian stationery chain Officeworks has removed from sale a new device from Apple – AirTag search trackers. Users complained that the device could endanger the safety of children.

Officeworks told Mashable that customers will be temporarily unable to purchase AirTag trackers. The retailer also added that it will not store these gadgets in its warehouses until it receives further guidance from the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC).

At the same time, the regulator said that it knows about the concern of users that in Apple trackers you can easily remove the coin battery. Australian officials did not issue special notices and warnings in this regard.

The AirTag may not meet new Australian safety standards that require a button battery compartment to be well protected from children. The rules were adopted in December 2020. Although they will only come into effect in June 2022, the ACCC is already urging suppliers to comply with them.

Button batteries, or coin-cell batteries, are dangerous to small children. If swallowed, they can cause serious injury or even death. A battery lodged in the esophagus can cause suffocation or burns. In Australia, an average of one child per month is injured as a result of such incidents.

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Apple stressed that the AirTag meets all international safety standards, including Australian ones, as the battery is accessed by a pivot-push mechanism. The battery compartment can be opened by turning the silver side of the device counterclockwise and pressing lightly. Despite these assurances, Apple is going to update the AirTag packaging with special button battery warning symbols.

Earlier, “Secret” said that AirTag search trackers have tested their strength. They were machine washed, kept in the freezer, and dropped from different heights.

Photo: frame from video / YouTube-channel Wylsacom

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