Intel recalls fitness watch, ends support due to overheating
Out of concern for skin burns, the company urges users to immediately discontinue use.
Intel on Wednesday issued a recall of its Basis Peak fitness watch, urging owners to immediately discontinue use of the device out of concern that overheating could cause burns.
The company first shared its concerns of overheating in June, pinning its hopes for a solution on a software update. That plan did not pan out as hoped, Intel said in a statement that urged customers to return the devices immediately for a full refund.
"We had hoped to update the software on your watch to address the problem," the company said in a statement. "Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we aren't able to develop such a solution without completely compromising the user experience. As a result, we are asking that you return your Basis Peak watch and authorized accessories for a full refund."
Intel bought Basis Science, maker of the Peak fitness watch, in 2014 for an undisclosed sum, though reports put the price tag at about $100 million.
Intel said it has ended support for the Peak, adding that users will have until the end of the year to retrieve their data. To return a device and obtain a refund, customers worldwide can visit https://support.mybasis.com.