The announcement affects laptop computers - the iBook G4 and Powerbook G4 - sold between October 2003 and August 2006.

"We discovered that some Sony batteries in previous models of PowerPC-based iBooks and PowerBooks do not meet Apple's standards for safety and performance," Apple said in a statement.

Computer model nameBattery model numberBattery serial numbers
12-inch iBook G4A1061ZZ338 through ZZ427
3K429 through 3K611
6C510 through 6C626
12-inch PowerBook G4A1079ZZ411 through ZZ427
3K428 through 3K611
15-inch PowerBook G4A1078 and A11483K425 through 3K601
6N530 through 6N551
6N601

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled batteries immediately and contact Apple to arrange for a replacement battery, free of charge. After removing the recalled battery from their iBook or PowerBook, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives.

Consumer Contact: : Contact Apple at (800) 275-2273 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Sunday or log on to Apple’s Web site at http://support.apple.com/batteryprogram to check the battery’s serial number and request a replacement battery.