Speculation is raging around whether the US is set to unveil an expansion of the controversial laptop ban announced in March and whether it could cover Europe.

Reuters has reported that the move is likely but that the possibility of lithium batteries exploding while stored in luggage is keeping the administration from making the announcement as it looks for a solution.

The current laptop ban, which lasts until October, covers flights out of 10 airports in the Middle East and North Africa, preventing them from allowing passengers to keep any electronic devices larger than smartphones onboard in inflight cabins. Expansion of the ban into Europe also carries the possibility of extending to US carriers which fly out of the continent.

The US department of State has said that no decisions have been made, but confirms reviews are under consideration.