The decision by Dell to recall and replace up to 4.1m notebook computer batteries is firing up the blogosphere. Demonstrated so vividly by images caught on tape of an exploding Japanese laptop, web reports claim Dell had been aware of the overheating problems for at least two years.

The internet has added a new layer of visibility, speed and culpability to mass product failures and ensuing product recalls. This year alone there have been hundreds of product recalls, including those by big names such as Cadbury Schweppes, Ikea and Reebok.