A defective battery in the Samsung Galaxy Ring has led to alarming consequences for one user. The wearable device reportedly swelled to such an extent during a trip that it became painfully tight around the owner’s finger, and they were ultimately prohibited from boarding their flight, necessitating a hospital visit instead.
British content creator Daniel Rotar, known for his YouTube channel ZoneofTech, experienced this unsettling situation firsthand. Just before boarding a flight from Hawaii, he observed that his Galaxy Ring’s battery had become swollen, making the ring excruciatingly tight. Due to the potential safety hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries in this condition, the airline denied him entry to the aircraft.
His titanium ring could only be removed at the hospital using a combination of ice and medical lubricant, thankfully avoiding the need to cut the ring, which could have resulted in a fire or explosion due to the compromised battery.
This incident represents a troubling chapter for Samsung, which has a history of battery-related issues, most notably the infamous Galaxy Note 7 that was recalled after multiple incidents of overheating and fires.
Signs of a Potentially Damaged Battery
Prior to the incident, Rotar had reported significantly shortened battery life with his Galaxy Ring. Instead of lasting the expected week, the battery only ran for about a day and a half. Such warning signs can indicate that the battery is experiencing damage.
Rotar speculated that the high temperatures in Hawaii, exposure to saltwater, or a pre-existing battery defect could be the reasons behind the swelling. Despite having IP68 and 10ATM ratings, the Galaxy Ring is not explicitly shielded against saltwater corrosion.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Reports of similar battery issues have emerged on online platforms such as Reddit, with numerous users complaining not only of reduced battery life but also of physical deformation of their smart rings due to swollen batteries.
Samsung has stated that such occurrences are extremely rare. They are in ongoing communication with affected individuals and have provided general advice on how to handle stuck rings, such as using soap and water or applying cold water. However, the company has yet to offer insights into potential causes for these defects or whether a firmware update can resolve the issue.
What Users Should Monitor
This situation serves as a crucial reminder for owners of all smart rings: a significant decrease in battery life may signal defects. If you observe such battery issues, it is advisable to discontinue use immediately, especially if the device fits tightly around your finger.
The current incident highlights the difficulty of removing smart rings in emergencies, underscoring the need for a safety mechanism that allows for quick removal of these wearable devices.
This article was originally published on our sister site PC-WELT and has been translated and adapted from German.
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