Over 1.7 million smartwatches recalled by Google due to burn risk

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced on Wednesday that Fitbit, a company owned by Google, is recalling its Ionic smartwatches due to a potential burn hazard.
• Nearly 1.7 million Ionic watches have been sold worldwide, the agency stated.
• At least 115 reports of Fitbit watch battery overheating have been received in the U.S., resulting in 78 burn injuries, two third-degree burns, and four second-degree burns, according to the agency.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced on Wednesday that Fitbit is recalling its Ionic smartwatches due to a burn hazard.

Nearly 1.7 million Ionic watches have been sold worldwide, the agency stated.

The CPSC advised consumers to stop using Ionic smartwatches immediately and contact Fitbit for a refund of $299 and a 40% discount code on select Fitbit devices, as the lithium-ion batteries in these watches can overheat and cause burns.

In the U.S., Fitbit received 115 reports of the watch's battery overheating, resulting in 78 burn injuries, two third-degree burns, and four second-degree burns. Internationally, the company received 59 reports of overheating, with 40 burn injuries.

The Fitbit spokesperson stated that the burns are infrequent and the recall does not encompass the company's other smartwatches or fitness trackers.

In 2019, Google announced it was acquiring Fitbit for approximately $2.1 billion at a fully diluted equity value. The deal, which was completed last year, aimed to enhance Google's presence in the wearables market.