Smartwatch Manufacturer Pays Out $12 MILLION To BURNED Users

Fitbit agrees to pay $12.25 million in a settlement over burn injuries caused by its Ionic smartwatches, raising questions about product safety and corporate responsibility.

If you use a smartwatch, this story might make you think twice.

At a Glance

  • Fitbit to pay $12.25 million civil penalty for delayed reporting of defects
  • Ionic smartwatches caused burn injuries due to overheating batteries
  • 1.7 million units recalled globally after numerous injury reports
  • Fitbit required to implement new compliance procedures and reporting
  • Settlement aims to enhance product safety and consumer trust

Fitbit’s Costly Settlement over Defective Smartwatches

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reached a $12.25 million settlement with Fitbit, following allegations that the company failed to promptly report defects in its Ionic smartwatches. The settlement comes after multiple users suffered burn injuries due to overheating batteries, leading to a recall of 1.7 million units worldwide.

The lawsuit claimed that Fitbit had evidence of the defect but delayed reporting it to the CPSC. Despite a software update in 2020 aimed at addressing the issue, burn incidents continued to occur, including several cases of second- and third-degree burns. The severity of these injuries and the company’s alleged inaction prompted the CPSC to take decisive action.

The recall, announced in 2022, affected approximately 1.7 million Ionic smartwatches globally. In the United States alone, there were 115 reports of overheating, resulting in burn injuries to 78 individuals. Internationally, an additional 59 reports of overheating led to 40 people suffering burn injuries. These numbers underscore the widespread nature of the problem and the potential risks posed to consumers.

Fitbit ceased production of the Ionic smartwatches in 2020, but the damage had already been done. The company’s failure to immediately address and report the known defect has now resulted in significant financial and reputational consequences.

Compliance and Future Safeguards

As part of the settlement, Fitbit is required to implement internal controls and procedures to ensure compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Act. This includes conducting internal audits and submitting annual reports on its compliance efforts to the CPSC. These measures aim to prevent similar incidents in the future and restore consumer confidence in Fitbit’s products.

The settlement reflects a growing trend of regulatory bodies holding tech companies accountable for product safety and transparency. It serves as a reminder to all manufacturers of the importance of prompt reporting and addressing of potential hazards in consumer products.

For consumers who own or have owned a Fitbit Ionic smartwatch, this settlement highlights the importance of staying informed about product recalls and safety notices. It also underscores the need for vigilance when using electronic devices, particularly those worn on the body.

Maybe we don’t need a million devices in our pockets, bags, and on our wrists after all?