Battery Swelling Incident Highlights Hidden Dangers of Wearable Tech Safety

YouTuber's Battery Swelling Incident Highlights Rare but Real Risk of Smart Devices A Samsung Galaxy Ring owner's harrowing experience with a swelling battery has sparked concern about the safety of wearable technology. Daniel Rotar, who runs the popular YouTube channel ZONEofTECH, posted on X that his smart ring had become stuck due to battery swelling while he was wearing it. Rotar, who initially struggled to remove the device, eventually sought medical help and received assistance from a hospital team to safely remove the Galaxy Ring. Photos shared by Rotar show the swollen interior surface of the device. "I cannot take it off and this thing hurts," he wrote in his initial post. In response to the incident, Samsung issued a statement assuring customers that their safety is a top priority. A spokesperson for the company said, "We are in direct contact with this user to learn more about their concerns." The statement also provided guidance on how to attempt removing a stuck ring, including using soap and water or submerging the hand in cold water. Battery swelling is a known risk associated with lithium-ion batteries used in many portable devices. When a battery fails, trapped gases and heat can cause it to swell. While such incidents are rare, they highlight the need for manufacturers to prioritize safety and design devices that minimize this risk. The incident has also sparked discussion among experts and users about the importance of proper device maintenance and responsible use. "It's essential for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with wearable technology," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading expert on consumer electronics safety. "Manufacturers must take proactive steps to ensure their devices are designed with safety in mind." Rotar's experience has also raised questions about the role of social media in amplifying concerns about device safety. By sharing his ordeal online, he was able to raise awareness and prompt Samsung to respond quickly. As for Rotar, he is now recovering from the incident and has expressed gratitude for the support he received from his community. "I'm just glad it's over," he said in a follow-up post. "I hope this serves as a reminder to always prioritize safety when using wearable technology." The incident serves as a reminder that even with advancements in technology, devices are not immune to failure. As consumers increasingly rely on smart devices for daily life, manufacturers must continue to prioritize safety and design devices that minimize the risk of battery swelling. Background: Samsung's Galaxy Ring is a popular wearable device designed for fitness tracking and notification management. While rare, incidents of battery swelling have been reported in various portable devices, including smartphones and laptops. Additional Perspectives: A Reddit community dedicated to discussing battery-related issues has weighed in on the incident, offering advice and support to Rotar. Samsung's customer support page provides guidance on how to handle stuck or swollen batteries, including attempting removal with soap and water or submerging the hand in cold water. Current Status: The incident is currently under investigation by Samsung, which is working closely with Rotar to understand the cause of the battery swelling. *Reporting by Engadget.*