Dell is to recall 4.1 million notebook computer batteries because they could overheat and catch fire.
This is the biggest recall in the 22-year history of the computer maker.
Dell blamed the voluntary recall, issued with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, on the lithium-ion batteries made by Sony unit Sony Energy Devices, which Dell said could in rare cases produce smoke and catch fire.
The batteries are also used by other computer makers, including Apple Computer, which said it was looking into the issue. Hewlett-Packard said its notebooks were not affected by the recall.
No injuries have been tied to the defect involving the Dell-branded batteries, Dell said. The company has received six reports of batteries overheating, causing damage to furniture and personal belongings, the safety commission said.