The story
Anker was founded in 2011 by Steven Yang in Shenzhen, China. Initially, the company focused on replacement laptop batteries, but it quickly recognized the burgeoning market for portable charging solutions.
In 2011, Anker strategically expanded its product line to include smartphone battery chargers, wall adapters, and portable power banks. This shift proved to be a critical early breakthrough, establishing Anker as a key player in the personal electronics accessory market by addressing the growing need for on-the-go power for modern devices. The brand built its reputation on reliable and affordable charging solutions, gaining significant traction through online marketplaces.
Challenges along the way
Anker has faced significant challenges, particularly related to product safety and data privacy. The eufy sub-brand faced a major controversy when security researchers discovered that, despite claims of local-only storage, images and videos were being uploaded to eufy's cloud servers, including user-tagged data. This led to a loss of trust and withdrawal of key sponsorships. The company has also had to recall multiple power bank models due to fire hazards since 2023, with one recall in 2025 affecting nearly half a million units. Furthermore, Anker came under U.S. scrutiny in 2025 for alleged tariff evasion and potential security risks.
Major milestones
- 2011Anker founded by Steven Yang and expanded focus to smartphone battery chargers and power banks.
- 2011United States PatentFig. 17Charging and power-bank filingsAssignee searchRead filing ↗
- 2014Anker Innovations hired Zhao Dongping, Google's then-head of sales in China.
- 2016eufy smart home product sub-brand was launched.
- 2018soundcore, an audio sub-brand, was established following success in wireless audio.
- 2023Anker launched the Anker SOLIX brand for residential and portable energy products.
- 2025Anker discontinued its 3D printer line under AnkerMake and recalled power banks due to fire hazards.
- 2026Anker SOLIX launched the E10 modular whole-home backup power system for the U.S. market.
Prototypes & people
Currently stocked
