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SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- Fitbit announced Thursday it's voluntarily recalling its Force wristband activities trackers after some users complained of skin rashes while wearing the devices. A letter to customers from Fitbit CEO James Park said about 1.7 percent of Force users have reported skin irritation.
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He said the experts found no issues with the device's battery or electrical systems, and expect the users are likely experience allergic contact dermatitis."We care about every one of our customers. On behalf of the entire Fitbit team, I want to apologize to anyone affected," he wrote. "From the beginning, we have taken this matter very seriously. We hired independent labs and medical experts to conduct a thorough investigation."
Park said Fitbit is offering a full refund to consumers who wish to return the device, which they can do by requesting a return kit at the company's website or by calling 888-656-6381."All Force materials are commonly used in consumer products. However, some users may be reacting to the nickel present in the surgical grade stainless steel used in the device. Other users are likely experiencing an allergic reaction to the materials used in the strap or the adhesives used to assemble the product," the letter said.
"Rest assured we're working on our next-generation tracker and will announce news about it soon," Park said.
