Overview
A popular tech YouTuber alleges a Samsung Galaxy Ring battery swelled to the point where the wearable could not be removed from his finger, an incident that reportedly led to a hospital visit. The claims surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) from Daniel, who runs the ZONEofTECH channel. He posted photos showing a visibly enlarged ring and later said the situation occurred while boarding a plane, with him denied entry due to the swollen device. He then reportedly sought medical help and had the ring removed at a hospital. The location and specific hospital were not disclosed.
The episode adds to ongoing conversations about the safety of lithium‑ion batteries in wearables. Daniel bought the Galaxy Ring in January and suggested the battery life had already underperformed, lasting about 1.5 days instead of a full week. He said the ring had no charge when the swelling occurred.
What happened, and what the photos show
In Daniel’s photos, the inner portion of the ring appeared to swell inward, a result of the ring’s design that causes outward pressure to push into the finger differently than a typical band. The result, as described, was a ring that was physically stuck and painful to remove. While the exact chronology remains unclear, the sequence — a swollen battery inside a wearable, trouble removing it, then a hospital visit — is what has drawn attention from fans and tech observers alike. Mashable notes that the reporter reached out to both Daniel and Samsung for comment, and 9to5Google referenced prior reports of battery swelling with the Galaxy Ring, though without confirmed hospital visits in those cases.
Samsung’s response and what the company has said
Samsung UK addressed the incident directly with Daniel on X and provided a statement to 9to5Google. The company emphasized that customer safety is a top priority and that it is in direct contact with the user to understand concerns. The company characterized such incidents as rare and highlighted recommended steps to remove a stuck ring, including using soap and water or submerging the hand in cold water. If these methods fail, Samsung directs users to consult its Support page for additional guidance.
Industry outlets, including Mashable, have noted that while cases of swelling rings are uncommon, they are not unheard of with the Galaxy Ring. The evolving nature of wearable chemistry means manufacturers remain vigilant about battery safety in next‑gen devices. The ongoing dialogue between users, media, and the company will likely influence future guidance from Samsung on handling stuck rings and battery‑related incidents.
Why battery swelling happens in lithium‑ion wearables
Lithium‑ion batteries can swell when gas accumulates inside due to aging, internal short circuits, or manufacturing defects. In compact wearables like rings, the confined space can intensify the pressure as the electrolyte polymer heats or breaks down. Swelling not only risks damage to the device but can pose safety concerns for the wearer, including discomfort, restricted blood flow, or the need for medical intervention to safely remove the artifact. While such events are rare, they underscore the importance of proper charging, storage, and handling of battery‑powered wearables.
What to do if a wearable ring swells
Experts generally advise not forcing a swollen ring off the finger. If possible, gently try removal with soap and water or by soaking the hand in cool water to reduce swelling. If the ring remains stuck, seek professional assistance—either from a healthcare provider or a device‑support specialist. Samsung’s own guidance suggests contacting support for step‑by‑step instructions tailored to the device and situation. In a hospital setting, clinicians can use specialized tools to remove the ring safely and check for any underlying finger injury.
What this means for consumers and wearables safety
The incident, while singled out by a notable influencer, appears to be rare in the broader rollout of the Galaxy Ring. Still, it reinforces a few practical takeaways for wearables owners: monitor battery life and charging habits, avoid leaving devices in extreme heat, and know the safe removal steps if you ever contend with a stuck ring. Manufacturers may respond with enhanced patient guidance, quicker access to support pages, and clearer warnings about what to do if swelling occurs.
Bottom line
As the Galaxy Ring and similar wearables gain adoption, questions about battery safety will persist. The episode reported by Daniel—swollen ring, hospital visit, and a call for safer handling—serves as a reminder that battery health matters, even in fashionable, compact devices. Samsung’s response, stressing safety and providing removal guidance, reflects a measured approach to a rare but important issue. Consumers should stay informed and reach out to official support channels if a wearable shows any sign of swelling or other unusual behavior.
