Motorola G-Series Phone Blast Raises Safety Alarm

A Motorola G-series smartphone reportedly exploded in a man’s pocket in Uttar Pradesh, India, burning a large hole through his jeans and triggering renewed concerns over lithium-ion battery safety in mobile devices. The owner fortunately sustained only minor injuries, avoiding what could have been a far more serious outcome.

According to accounts shared online, the phone was idle at the time of the incident—neither in use nor charging—when it suddenly overheated and caught fire inside the man’s pocket. Social media users identified the device as a possible Moto G54, part of Motorola’s popular mid-range G-series lineup. Widely circulated video footage shows extensive damage to the handset, including melted plastic on the rear panel and a cracked, blackened display. The man’s jeans bore a jagged burn hole around the pocket area, underscoring the intensity of the fire.

In an initial response, Motorola said it had reviewed the case but could not independently verify the claim because the customer was unable to provide sufficient supporting details. As a result, the original social media post related to the incident was reportedly taken down. The company has not yet issued a detailed public explanation addressing the possible technical cause.

The episode has reignited broader debate around lithium-ion battery safety, which remains a critical issue across the smartphone industry. Experts note that such explosions, though rare, are typically linked to internal battery defects, physical damage, overheating in tight pockets, battery ageing, or the use of non-certified chargers and accessories.

This is not an isolated concern for the brand. In February 2025, a woman in Brazil reportedly suffered second- and third-degree burns after a Moto E32 caught fire in her back pocket. Together, these incidents highlight the need for stronger safety checks, clearer consumer guidance, and continued scrutiny of battery reliability as smartphones become more powerful and compact.