Watches with intelligence features are being withdrawn due to reports of them igniting and causing burns to users' hands.
The Altafit AF28 smartwatch, a budget-friendly wearable device with a 1.68-inch color touchscreen and two band options, has been recalled due to safety concerns[1][3][4]. The wireless charging pad of the Altafit AF28 has been found to overheat, posing risks of burn injuries and fire hazards.
The recall comes after reports of at least six consumers suffering hand burns and property damage due to the overheating charging pad[4]. A total of approximately 2,900 units of the smartwatch, which were sold on HSN.com between March and May 2025 for around $50[1][2][4], are affected by this issue.
Despite the appeal of the Altafit AF28's design and features, the safety concerns around the wireless charging pad have led to its recall. The smartwatch itself, however, performed adequately in terms of its functions like reading oxygen levels, sleep, heart rate, and offering various sports modes[1].
The Altafit AF28 was marketed as a versatile smartwatch, suitable for various occasions beyond sports[1]. It is worth noting that the Altafit AF25, a different model, is currently available on HSN and has not been recalled, with no reported safety issues[1].
Consumers who own an Altafit AF28 smartwatch are encouraged to share their experiences, especially if they didn't experience any overheating or ignition issues[1]. If you own an Altafit AF28, it is advised to unplug the smartwatch's charging pad and stop charging the recalled smartwatch immediately[1].
Deale International, the company that manufactured the watches in China and imported them into the U.S., is offering a free replacement for the recalled smartwatches[1]. To receive a replacement, consumers are asked to email a photo of the charging pad with the cut cable to [email protected].
The Altafit AF28 smartwatch is IP67 water resistant, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions[1]. The watch comes with two bands, one bejeweled and one mesh, offering versatility in style[1].
The Altafit AF28 smartwatch was not on Gizmodo's radar until the recall notice was issued. Despite the issues with the wireless charging pad, the smartwatch still offers standard features expected in a budget model[1].
[1] - Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) [2] - Source: Home Shopping Network (HSN) [3] - Source: Deale International LLC [4] - Source: Consumer Reports
- The recall of the Altafit AF28 smartwatch, despite its budget-friendly price and versatile features, has been initiated due to safety concerns regarding the wireless charging pad, which has been found to overheat and potentially cause burn injuries and fire hazards.
- In contrast to the Altafit AF28 model, the Altafit AF25 smartwatch, a different model, remains available on HSN.com without any reported safety issues.
- After the recall and safety concerns, the Altafit AF28 smartwatch has received attention from tech publications like Gizmodo, but still, offers standard features expected in a budget model.
