Fitbit recalls nearly 1.7 million Fitbit Ionic smartwatches because of burns risk

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall of all Fitbit Ionic smartwatches, which you can still buy in numerous markets. The CPSC writes that 174 people have experienced their Ionic batteries overheating. Apparently, 78 of those have suffered burns in the US, including two with third-degree burns and four with second-degree burns. Additionally, there have been 40 cases of burns outside the US.

Fitbit emphasises that these numbers represent less than 0.01% of Ionics sold in the last four and a half years. However, it is worth noting that these numbers only consist of those who contacted Fitbit directly, not those who resolved the matter with their retailer. While the CPSC only has jurisdiction over the US, Fitbit has recalled European variants as well. The model numbers that Fitbit has recalled are as follows; you can find the model number of your Fitbit Ionic on the back of your smartwatch.

• Ionic FB503CPBU (Slate Blue/Burnt Orange)
• Ionic FB503GYBK (Charcoal/Smoke Gray)
• Ionic FB503WTGY (Blue Gray/Silver Gray)
• Ionic FB503WTNV (Adidas edition)

According to the CPSC, people should immediately stop using the Ionic and contact Fitbit to obtain pre-paid packaging to return the device. Once you Ionic returns to Fitbit, the company will issue a US$299 refund, or an amount applicable to your country. Fitbit will also provide everyone with a 40% discount code on select Fitbit devices.

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