Considering buying a smart ring? You might want to pause. A bizarre and alarming incident involving the Samsung Galaxy Ring has raised immediate safety concerns for the burgeoning wearable tech category.
A user reported that the battery inside their Galaxy Ring swelled up dramatically while still on their finger.
The incident had immediate, real-world consequences: the user was reportedly barred from boarding an airplane because the swollen device was deemed a fire hazard (hazardous material).
The situation escalated quickly, forcing the individual to seek medical attention.
The ring was so swollen that it had to be removed by doctors in a hospital. Accompanying photos clearly show the lithium-ion battery distending the ring’s casing from the inside.
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A Unique Removal Hazard
This event highlights a specific danger unique to smart rings. Unlike traditional metal rings, which doctors can often cut or saw off a swollen finger, a smart ring cannot be simply dismantled.
Puncturing the casing of a swollen device risks damaging the internal lithium-ion battery, which could lead to a thermal event, potentially causing a significant burn right on the user's hand.
While the incident is unlikely to be severe enough to cause amputation, the danger of a serious burn from a ruptured, short-circuiting battery is very real.
The event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks when complex battery technology is miniaturized and worn directly against the skin, particularly with a product that cannot be easily removed in an emergency.
