14 DAY TRIAL // Apple launched the location-tracking AirTag with much fanfare only a few weeks ago, and while the device has already hit the shelves in some regions, it looks like the company is struggling with an unexpected problem in Australia.
Officeworks, a large chain of stores in Australia, has decided to stop selling the AirTag due to child safety concerns, as for some reason, they received complaints that the replaceable batteries can be removed too easily and then possibly swallowed by children.
“The product will not be stocked by Officeworks until further guidance is provided from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Officeworks continues to work with Apple to address any safety concerns,” representatives of the store chain have been quoted as saying.
Australia’s Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says it’s already aware of the child safety concerns, adding that retailers are the ones who can decide if a certain product can be pulled from stores if they discover that it poses safety risks.
Apple: All safety standards are met
“The ACCC is aware of reports raising concerns about the accessibility of button batteries in the Apple AirTag product,” the organization says. “If a supplier finds a product they supply is unsafe, the ACCC expects the supplier to conduct a voluntary recall to advise consumers of the risk, address the safety issue, or remove the product from the market.”
As you’d normally expect, Apple has already responded to the claims, explaining that the AirTag meets all international child safety standards and removing the batteries isn’t as easy as it sounds.
“AirTag is designed to meet international child safety standards, including those in Australia, by requiring a two step push-and-turn mechanism to access the user-replaceable battery,” an Australian spokesperson said.
At this point, no stores in other regions where the Apple AirTag is available for purchase pulled the device for safety concerns.