January 7, 2026 – A consumer has reported a serious fire incident involving a Nebula Capsule 3 Laser portable projector, manufactured by Anker Innovations Limited. The device reportedly overheated, smoked, and combusted while idle but plugged into power, raising concerns about potential fire risks with the product.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On October 2nd, 2025, a consumer reported a fire incident involving their Nebula Capsule 3 Laser portable projector. The device was in their apartment, plugged into power, and idle at the time, which is consistent with normal consumer use for such a device. Around 1 PM PST, the projector suddenly overheated, began to emit smoke, and then actively combusted. The consumer, present during the incident, promptly removed the burning projector from their apartment, preventing further damage or potential injury.
Following the incident, the consumer contacted Nebula/Anker Innovations, providing comprehensive documentation including proof of purchase, the product serial number, photographs of the damaged device, and a detailed account of the event. Despite this information, the manufacturer reportedly declined to initiate a safety investigation, repeatedly requiring a fire department incident report or written confirmation from a fire station. The consumer noted that no emergency response occurred because the fire was contained immediately and did not necessitate a fire department dispatch. As a result, the manufacturer has, over an extended period, continued to request documentation that does not exist, and a substantive safety review has not been initiated.
Safety Concerns
This incident highlights significant safety concerns, particularly the risk of fire and related hazards, even when the Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector is not actively in use but connected to power.
- Immediate Dangers: The primary immediate danger is a fire hazard. A device combusting spontaneously poses a direct threat of burns to anyone nearby and can quickly spread, engulfing surrounding furniture, curtains, or other flammable materials.
- Long-Term Risks: If such an incident occurs when a consumer is not present, or if they are unable to react quickly, the fire could escalate, leading to extensive property damage, smoke inhalation injuries, or even loss of life. The fact that the device was idle suggests a potential internal defect that could manifest at any time while the unit is plugged in.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone owning or using a Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector could potentially be affected. This includes individuals, families, and even businesses using these devices in various indoor settings. Children or individuals with mobility impairments might be at higher risk if they are unable to quickly respond to a sudden fire.
- Property Damage Potential: A device fire can cause severe property damage, ranging from localized scorch marks and smoke damage to complete destruction of rooms or entire dwellings. The reported incident indicates active combustion, which has the potential for significant damage.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who own a Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector should take the following precautions:
- Immediate Steps: If your projector shows any signs of overheating, smoking, or unusual odors, immediately and safely disconnect it from power if possible without risking injury. Do not attempt to use the device again. If combustion occurs, prioritize your safety and evacuate, calling emergency services if the fire cannot be contained immediately and safely.
- Check Your Product: Verify if you own a Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector. Check the product label or original packaging for the model number and manufacturer information.
- Prevention Measures:
* Avoid leaving the projector plugged in and unattended for extended periods, especially when not in use.
* Ensure proper ventilation around the projector to prevent heat buildup.
* Place the projector on a hard, non-flammable surface, away from combustible materials.
* Do not block ventilation openings.
* Inspect the power cord and plug regularly for any signs of damage.
- Reporting Procedures: If you experience a similar incident or have concerns about your Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector, report it immediately to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.SaferProducts.gov. You should also contact Anker Innovations Limited (Nebula’s parent company) to report your experience. Document everything, including photos, videos, and detailed descriptions of the event.
Manufacturer’s Response
According to the consumer’s report, the manufacturer, Anker Innovations Limited (Nebula), did respond to the incident report. However, they reportedly declined to proceed with a substantive safety investigation unless the consumer provided a fire department incident report or written confirmation from a fire station. This requirement was maintained despite the consumer providing proof of purchase, the product serial number, photographs of the damaged device, and a detailed description of the event, and explaining that no emergency response occurred as the fire was contained immediately.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.