Fitbit announced, on Wednesday (2), the voluntary recall of models of its first smart wearable, Ionic, launched in 2017. The company halted production of the device in 2020, shortly before it was purchased by Google, but there are reports that its battery may overheat and generate burns.
Fitbit Ionic would have caused third degree burns
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says Fitbit has received 174 customer complaints —115 from the U.S. and 59 from other countries. All report overheating of Ionic’s lithium-ion battery.
There were 78 complaints of burns caused by Ionic in the USA. Among the complaints, two are third-degree burns —capable of crossing the skin and reaching the bones—and one of second-degree. In the rest of the world, Fitbit received 40 more reports of burns caused by Ionic.
The model was pioneering in the sale smartwatches of Fitbit. The company acquired smart watch maker Pebble in 2017 after shelling out $23 million; Ionic, launched in the same year, was one of the first wearables to come with SpO2 sensors, used to measure oxygen in the bloodstream.
But Ionic disappointed in terms of sales for its flashy design and low amount of smart features. Ironically, the drums were praised in most reviews.
In the US, CPSC claims that Fitbit sold 1 million Ionic units, while internationally, 639,000 units were purchased.
Google asks users not to use Ionic anymore
Fitbit’s note asking for the recall of its handsets warns that users of the model should stop using it immediately. The company says:
“The health and safety of Fitbit customers is our highest priority. We are taking steps starting from plenty of care with our users. We will offer a refund to fitbit ionic owners […] The voluntary recall is specific to this device, and does not impact other watches or smart bracelets of the brand”
Fitbit Ionic orange on a user’s wrist
Fitbit Ionic color Burnt Orange on a user’s wrist (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
To Mashable, a Fitbit spokesperson said the company received a “limited” number of accident complaints. He says the total advertised by the CPSC “represents 0.001% of the units sold” and that these incidents are “very rare.”
The company’s official website for the recall accepts reports from Brazilian users. If your Fitbit Ionic model number starts with FB503, it is eligible in the campaign. You can find this code on the back of the device, near where the bracelet is installed.
