A Samsung Galaxy Ring owner experienced a terrifying malfunction when the device’s battery swelled, causing it to become painfully stuck on their finger and forcing an emergency hospital visit. Tech influencer Daniel Rotar, known as ZONEofTECH on YouTube and X, shared the ordeal on September 29, 2025, revealing how the swelling started during travel, denied him boarding a flight from Hawaii, and required medical intervention for removal. Samsung has responded by calling the incident “extremely rare” and initiating an investigation, but the event has ignited concerns about lithium-ion battery safety in wearables.
For smart ring users, fitness tech enthusiasts, and those monitoring wearable safety, this case highlights potential risks in compact devices like the Galaxy Ring, launched in July 2024 as a premium health tracker competing with Oura and Ultrahuman. With over 1 million units shipped, isolated incidents like this could impact consumer trust. Let’s examine the details, Samsung’s response, and broader implications for the $10 billion smart ring market.
The Incident: Swelling Traps Ring, Leads to Hospital Trip
Rotar, en route from Hawaii, noticed the Galaxy Ring’s battery expanding inward, warping the titanium casing and crushing his finger. He posted photos on X showing the bulge opposite the sensors, describing it as “not good” and increasingly painful. Airport security denied boarding due to lithium-ion fire risks—echoing the 2016 Note 7 ban—and directed him to a hospital.
Medical staff used ice to reduce swelling and medical lubricant to slide the ring off without cutting it, avoiding further injury. Rotar later shared images of the deformed inner casing and a healing finger with minor marks, noting the ring had shown odd behavior for months: one-day battery life and intermittent power issues despite full charges.
Rotar’s timeline:
- Pre-Flight: Swelling begins; attempts with soap/hand cream worsen it.
- Airport Denial: Safety protocol halts boarding; hotel stay overnight.
- Hospital Removal: Ice and lubricant succeed; no major damage reported.
- Post-Incident: Samsung collects device for analysis; travel costs reimbursed.
This isn’t Rotar’s first issue—earlier posts mentioned charging glitches—but the swelling escalated dramatically.
Samsung’s Response: “Extremely Rare” with User Support
Samsung UK quickly engaged on X, expressing concern and requesting a DM for escalation. A spokesperson told Android Authority: “The safety of our customers is a top priority and we are in direct contact with this user to learn more about their concerns. While experiences like this are extremely rare, there are a few ways to attempt removing a stuck ring, including soap and water—or submerging your hand in cold water.” They advised checking Samsung Support for guidance.
The company has collected the ring for investigation, with no formal recall announced. Samsung emphasized the Galaxy Ring’s IP68 rating and seven-day battery life, but battery swelling—common in lithium-ion cells from overcharge or age—poses unique risks in finger-worn devices.
Battery Swelling Explained: A Known Lithium-Ion Risk
Lithium-ion batteries can expand due to gas buildup from heat, overcharging, or degradation, “pillowing” in phones but constricting in rings. Samsung’s past issues—like the Note 7 recall—affect wearables too, where swelling traps the device, cutting circulation.
Risk factors for Galaxy Ring:
- Compact Design: Titanium body limits outward expansion, pressuring inward.
- Daily Wear: Constant use accelerates wear; Rotar’s multi-day travel may have exacerbated.
- Charging Habits: Intermittent power suggests underlying faults.
Experts recommend monitoring for warmth, unusual shape, or pain; immediate removal attempts with lubrication or cold water. No widespread reports exist, but Rotar flagged similar online complaints, including one swelling case.
Broader Implications: Safety Scrutiny for Smart Rings
This incident spotlights wearable battery risks in a market projected to hit $10 billion by 2028, with Galaxy Ring’s 1 million+ sales amplifying visibility. Competitors like Oura (battery swaps available) and Ultrahuman emphasize modularity, while Samsung’s sealed design prioritizes waterproofing but complicates emergencies.
Potential fallout:
- User Trust: Isolated but viral; could dent sales amid Oura’s lead.
- Regulatory Push: FCC/Consumer Product Safety Commission may review; echoes EU’s battery directives.
- Industry Response: Expect serviceability tweaks in Galaxy Ring 2 (rumored 2026).
Samsung’s investigation will clarify if it’s a defect or user error, but Rotar’s vow—”won’t be wearing a smart ring ever again”—resonates with safety-first users.
Conclusion: Galaxy Ring’s Swelling Scare – A Wake-Up for Wearable Safety
The Samsung Galaxy Ring’s battery swelling that hospitalized a user after trapping their finger is a rare but alarming reminder of lithium-ion risks in compact tech. While Samsung investigates and supports Rotar, the incident underscores the need for easy removal and monitoring in smart rings. As the $10 billion market grows, safety must evolve alongside innovation—lest a fitness tracker become a hazard. techspot
