Microsoft to recall Surface Pro power cords over fire risks

Microsoft will voluntarily recall millions of power cords for older models of its Surface Pro tablets that pose fire risks for users. The company will recall the cables of three generations of the Surface Pro, Surface Pro 2 and Surface Pro 3 sold before July 15, 2015.

"We will be releasing details of how customers can obtain a free replacement cable shortly," said Microsoft to Channelnomics Europe.

The tech giant also mentioned that it will issue a statement on Friday to announce the intended worldwide voluntary recall of power supply cords for its Surface Pro, Surface Pro 2 and Surface Pro 3 models. Other necessary details will follow the announcement.

Microsoft anticipates a fire risk due to unnecessary heating of power cords of the mentioned devices. Repeated twisting, bending, winding or pinching of the power cables too tightly for long periods of time may lead to overheating.

The firm also mentioned that affected customers will be able to replace their defective cord for free and buy new cables via a specially designed website. More specific information about the recall will be announced soon, said a spokesperson.

Customers will also be advised to recycle or dispose their faulty cords to avoid the possibility of further hazards. Microsoft confirmed that a very small proportion of Surface Pro customers have already reported overheating problems regarding their power cables.

The first-generation of the 2-in-1 Surface Pro was released in early 2013 with Windows 8 Pro on board while the latest model came in the market in November last year. The most recent Surface Pro 4 launched in the fall 2015 will not be affected by the recall. A Microsoft spokesperson also confirmed the news to ZDNet via e-mail.