Fitbit is recalling more than 1.7 million Ionic smartwatches that have been sold globally because the lithium-ion batteries tend to overheat.
These have caused hundreds of people to report that they have suffered third-degree burns, whilst there have been reports of house fires, with the fitness devices still proving dangerous in some cases, even when not being worn.
About 1 million off the popular smartwatches were sold in the US through major retailers like Target, Kohl’s, and Best buy as well as online through Amazon and Fitbit’s own site, selling for anywhere between US $220 and US $330 each.
Although Fitbit discontinued the production of Ionic in 2029, they continued to be sold worldwide.
Consumers have been urged to stop using the Ionic smartwatches immediately and to contact the company who will send them pre=paid packaging to return their devices. They will receive a refund of US $299, plus a discount code of 40% off other Fitbit devices.
Activity trackers like Fitbit have become increasingly popular in recent years, with consumers using them to monitor personal; metrics like heart rate, quality of sleep, steps covered, and stairs climbed.
That is an addition to the other features they offer such as the ability to read emails, monitor news headlines, and other web activity, and track incoming phone calls.
Such wearable technology has helped revolutionize mobile technology in recent years, meaning that people no longer are just reliant on mobile phones or their laptops for connectivity.
For example, those who enjoy playing South African online casinos can use their Fitbits or other smartwatches to keep in touch with the latest promotions and offers, although they may prefer to use their mobile phones to play the games themselves.
This is by no means the first time that Fitbit has ordered a product recall. In 2014 it collaborated with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission after some users experienced an allergic reaction to the products used in the Fitbit Force product.
And, in April 2017, one customer claimed that a malfunction in her Flex 2 device had caused second-degree burns on her arm.
After a detailed investigation, they concluded that external factors were to blame for the exploding tracker, and assured their customers they could wear the devices without concern for the consequences.
This time, however, it seems like customer concerns cannot be ignored.
Recalls are costly for any company, not only because they must absorb the cost of replacing and fixing faulty products, and, where necessary, reimbursing consumers, but also because of the associated costs. These include reputational damage and the heavy marketing campaigns which will be needed to try and restore the good name of the organization in the eyes of the public.
And, that is not the least of Fitbit’s concerns. Public confidence has a major impact on consumer behavior and, if they do not trust the companies they buy from, they will not buy their products in the future.
Fitbit faces now an uphill struggle to convince people that their remaining products are safe to wear.
