Fitbit Fined $12M Over Ionic Smartwatch Burn Injuries

Fitbit Reaches Settlement with CPSC Over Ionic Smartwatch Burns

Fitbit has reached a settlement with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regarding a defect that resulted in burns for some users. The agreement involves a $12.25 million penalty levied against the Google-owned fitness technology company, stemming from problems with its Ionic smartwatch.

Timeline of the Issue

Reports of the defect began surfacing in 2018 and persisted through 2020. A recall of the device was initiated by Fitbit in March 2022, following the CPSC’s determination that the smartwatch presented “an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death to consumers.”

An attempt to rectify the problem through a firmware update released in early 2020 proved insufficient, as the underlying issue remained unresolved according to the CPSC.

Failure to Report

The CPSC stated that Fitbit did not promptly report the defect to the Commission, despite having information indicating a substantial product hazard and an unreasonable risk of serious injury. Regulatory requirements mandate immediate reporting of such issues.

Burn Injuries Reported

A total of 115 consumers in the U.S. reported incidents involving the smartwatch’s overheating battery. Among these reports, 78 individuals sustained burns. The severity of these burns varied, with two cases classified as third-degree and four as second-degree.

Terms of the Agreement

Beyond the financial penalty, the agreement stipulates that Fitbit must submit an annual report to the commission. This report will include an internal audit focused on safety operations.

Furthermore, Fitbit is obligated to “maintain internal controls and procedures designed to ensure compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA),” as outlined in the settlement. This includes improvements to their existing compliance program.

Ongoing Safety Measures

• Annual safety operation audits are now required.
• Fitbit must enhance its compliance program.
• Internal controls and procedures will be maintained to ensure adherence to the CPSA.