BenQ recalls GV31 portable projectors globally due to risk of fire and burns

Over three years ago, BenQ launched its GV31 portable projector worldwide. At the end of May of this year, the company issued a recall in both the UK and Australia/NZ due to a potentially defective battery, which "may overheat and pose a fire risk." Several days later, the company issued a similar recall in Singapore, followed two months later by a joint recall in Canada and the US on June 30. Owners are advised to stop using the affected devices immediately and disconnect them until they can be repaired.

Why the recall did not occur simultaneously is likely because each country has its own product safety authority and legal requirements, and companies typically work with the corresponding regulator to agree on the scope of the recall, the affected serial numbers and the resolution. Companies also need to ensure that repair centers, replacement parts, customer support and shipping arrangements are in place in each region before announcing the recall.

The recall affects approximately 1,249 units sold in the US, with smaller numbers distributed in other countries worldwide. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, BenQ has received three reports of projectors overheating, with one incident resulting in minor burn injuries.

The affected projectors were sold between July 2023 and May 2026 via retailers such as Amazon, BenQ's online store and other electronics sellers. BenQ is offering either a free battery service or a free upgrade for all recalled units. Customers can check whether their projector is affected by following the instructions outlined on BenQ's recall website for the US/Canada, Singapore, the UK and Australia/NZ.