A Sudden Surge of Smart Device Woes: The Hidden Risks of Wearable Technology

Reddit user u/MaybeNotThrowing recently shared a post about the swelling of the battery in their Samsung Galaxy Ring, a smart ring that has quickly become a cautionary tale for tech enthusiasts. The user described the gadget as a “ticking time bomb” on their finger. They purchased the device during the initial launch of the Galaxy Ring in July 2024. Approximately nine months into use (around April 2025), the device’s battery completely failed and stopped charging. Photo by u/MaybeNotThrowing

Remarkably, despite the device becoming unusable without repair or inspection, the user continued wearing it for nearly a year. It was only this week, in February 2026, when they attempted to charge it, that they discovered the battery had physically swollen due to prolonged malfunction. Observing the ring’s bulging areas was enough to convince me to never put this ticking time bomb on my finger again, the user remarked.

Industry experts warn that lithium batteries left unattended for extended periods, especially when over-discharged or damaged, are highly susceptible to gas buildup that leads to swelling. This incident serves as a stark reminder to all users of smart wearable devices: if a device’s battery is faulty or entirely damaged, it should be immediately stopped from being worn and taken to service to prevent potential injuries.

Growing Concerns Over Device Safety

This incident comes at a time when safety concerns over wearable technologies are rising. Recent studies have highlighted that improper battery management in compact gadgets poses significant risks. Some manufacturers are now focusing on improving battery technologies to combat such issues, including exploring solid-state batteries, which are considered safer.

Additionally, there have been advancements aimed at increasing battery efficiency and safety, such as integrating AI monitoring systems that can predict and alert users ahead of potential failures.

What Consumers Should Be Aware Of

Consumers are advised to stay informed about the products they use, paying particular attention to manufacturer recalls or safety warnings. Being proactive in handling and maintenance can prevent dangerous situations. Companies have been urged to improve transparency regarding wearable device safety to maintain consumer trust.