Oura Rings Face User Complaints of Smoking and Overheating

Reports have surfaced from two users of the Oura Ring regarding alarming incidents of their devices overheating and emitting smoke. These incidents raise concerns about the safety of smart rings, which are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

One user shared on Reddit that their Oura Ring began smoking while they were on a morning walk, causing a burn to their finger and resulting in a blister upon removal. The user described the experience, stating, “My hand smells like electronic fire.” They had been using the ring for approximately four to five months before this incident occurred.

A second user, who has since deleted their account, claimed that their Oura Ring was defective from the moment of purchase.

Responding to these reports, a spokesperson for Oura stated, “We take any safety-related report seriously and are actively reviewing the recent posts on a case-by-case basis. While Reddit discussion threads can create the impression of scale, the two reported cases appear to be isolated incidents rather than a wider pattern, and we’re conducting thorough investigations — including third-party analysis — to understand exactly what happened and support the members involved.”

Since its launch, Oura has sold over 5.5 million rings, making these incidents particularly noteworthy within the context of consumer technology.

Understanding the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries, while common in smart devices, can be prone to overheating under certain conditions, such as damage or improper charging. This phenomenon, known as thermal runaway, can lead to battery fires if the battery is defective or misused. Despite the risks, advancements in battery technology and stringent safety standards have significantly reduced potential hazards for consumers, according to an analysis by Relion in a 2024 blog post.

Earlier this year, a similar incident was reported involving a Samsung Galaxy Ring. YouTuber Daniel Rotar posted on social media that the battery in his Galaxy Ring had expanded and swelled around his finger shortly before a flight. Rotar noted that the ring had been malfunctioning for months and had failed to hold a charge for more than a day.

Customer Concerns and Company Response

Amid these troubling reports, many Oura Ring users have also taken to forums to voice concerns about battery life. Customers who purchased the Oura Ring 4 less than a year ago have reported significant decreases in battery performance, despite the company advertising a battery life of up to eight days.

In response to these battery life issues, Oura has been proactive in addressing customer complaints. The spokesperson stated, “We are continuing to make improvements in our software and features to help reduce battery aging. Most members continue to experience between 5-8 days of battery life, as expected. We encourage members to contact customer support, where we handle issues on a case-by-case basis, troubleshooting and replacing rings as needed.”

Despite the concerning reports, experts, including ZDNET’s Adrian Kingsley-Hughes, emphasize that rechargeable batteries, including those in smart rings, are generally safe. Kingsley-Hughes advises users to remove any malfunctioning devices immediately to mitigate risks.

As Oura continues to investigate these isolated incidents, the company’s commitment to customer safety and product reliability remains paramount in maintaining consumer trust.