Google’s Fitbit recalls 1.7 million of its Ionic smartwatches over burn hazard caused by lithium-ion battery overheat

According to CPSC, the lithium-ion batteries in the smartwatches can overheat, which could cause burns. The agency told consumers to stop immediately using the Ionic watches and contact Fitbit to start the return of the device. After returning the device, consumers will be issued a refund of $299 and a discount code for 40% off select Fitbit devices.

The agency also added that Fitbit has received at least 115 reports in the U.S. of the battery in the watch overheating, with 78 reports of burn injuries, two reports of third-degree burns, and four reports of second-degree burns in recent months. Fitbit has only received 59 reports of overheating, with 40 reports of burn injuries from international users.

CPSC wrote:

“This recall only involves the Fitbit Ionic Smartwatch. It was sold with a polyurethane band and has a 1.4-inch color LCD screen. The watches were sold in slate blue/burnt orange, charcoal/smoke gray, blue gray/silver gray, and a special edition co-branded with Adidas in ink blue/silver gray. The smartwatch tracks activity, heart rate, and sleep. Only the following models and colors are included in this recall. For the Ionic device, the model number (FB503) is on the back of the device near where the band attaches. Fitbit is printed on the front of the Ionic Smartwatch.”

A Fitbit spokesperson said the burns are rare. The recall doesn’t expand to the company’s other smartwatches or fitness trackers.

As we reported back in 2019, Google acquired the wearable fitness tracker startup for $2.1 billion to help boost Google’s presence in the wearables market. The deal was closed last year. Below is a screenshot of the CPSC report. You can read more here.