May 10, 2018 Battery Warning: Mobile Beacon, supplier of the non-profit Sprint based plans available through organizations like Calyx and PCs for People is tracking an unusually high number of reports of swollen batteries and even fires caused by this device. No recall has been published yet. Given that this device does NOT have a user replaceable battery - we advise high caution with this device.  Keep an extra close eye on your unit for signs of battery swelling and discontinue use immediately if you notice any.

To reduce chances of battery swelling, we advise not keeping this unit plugged or charging 24/7 (unplug it for a few hours a day) - and be extra cautious of running consistent high loads on it, especially in weak signal areas which requires more power usage. For maximum safety, discontinue use entirely.

ZTE in the News:

ZTE is a Chinese company that produces a variety of electronics, including consumer cellular devices as well as network equipment which can potentially be used by cellular carriers and other internet service providers.

Beginning in 2018, the US government restricted the sale and support of ZTE products in the US due to security concerns and at one point, it seemed like ZTE could be forced out of business.

Currently, however, ZTE is still able to directly sell and support consumer devices in the US, but US telecommunications companies cannot use federal telecom subsidies for ZTE gear or services because the US government considers ZTE to be a security threat.

While unlikely at this point, ZTE could be subject to further US government actions that could further affect the availability of and support for ZTE consumer devices.

Members, our further analysis and detailed updates are in the Special Announcements forum:

ALERT: Future of ZTE In Doubt - Mobley, Warp, Velocity 2, other devices impacted