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In response to the reports of skin irritation from wearing Fitbit Force, a wristband that tracks distance, steps, stairs climbed, calories burned and sleep, the company has issued an apology. It's just to the "very limited number of Fitbit Force users" that developed a rash, and they're looking into the issue. Best guess so far? "An allergy to nickel, an element of surgical-grade stainless steel used in the device." (If you're into gross skin pictures, the Consumerist has you covered.)
Fitbit is offering a refund for wounded customers, or they can swap out for another, non-epidermis-contacting tracker. Check out the full statement, as published on the Huffington Post below.
We are looking into reports from a very limited number of Fitbit Force users who have been experiencing skin irritation, possibly as a result of an allergy to nickel, an element of surgical-grade stainless steel used in the device.We suggest that consumers experiencing any irritation discontinue using the product and contact Fitbit at force@fitbit.com if they have additional questions. Customers may also contact Fitbit for an immediate refund or replacement with a different Fitbit product.
We are sorry that even a few consumers have experienced these problems and assure you that we are looking at ways to modify the product so that anyone can wear the Fitbit Force comfortably. We will continue to update our customers with the latest information.
· Fitbit Apologizes To Customers Who've Experienced Skin Reactions [HuffPo]
· 5 Gizmos That Forecast the Stylish Future of Wearable Tech [Racked]