Apple announced it is recalling 1.8 million Li-Ion batteries supplied by Sony, as these batteries pose a safety risk (may catch fire). Macs manufactured between October 2003 and August 2006 are concerned by this new major exchange program.

Apple has determined that certain lithium-ion batteries containing cells manufactured by Sony Corporation of Japan pose a safety risk that may result in overheating under rare circumstances.

The affected batteries were sold worldwide from October 2003 through August 2006 for use with the following notebook computers: 12-inch iBook G4, 12-inch PowerBook G4 and 15-inch PowerBook G4.

Apple is voluntarily recalling the affected batteries and has initiated a worldwide exchange program to provide eligible customers with a new replacement battery, free of charge. This program is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other international safety authorities.

You will find more information on how to determine if your battery needs to be replaced in this dedicated support page.

The company had announced a similar battery exchange program in 2004 but fewer units were involved. Dell announced earlier this week, the largest battery recall of 4.1 million batteries also manufactured by Sony.