02 February 2024
When the Snap Pixy Flying Camera debuted in 2022, we warned prospective buyers that the cute and clever selfie drone could "disappear in a flash."
Today, that phrase takes on a new—albeit disappointing—meaning as 71,000 Pixy drones are being recalled by Snap because of fire risks from the onboard lithium ion batteries. To put that already high number into perspective—71,000 is all of the mini drones Snap sold in 2022.
Currently, an extremely low number of customers have called to complain about the Pixy. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were four reports of batteries overheading and "bulging," one minor fire, and one personal injury. However, given that lithium ion batteries—which power everything from drones to e-bikes—have been causing a significant number of fires (500 in New York alone), Snap voluntarily issued the recall order out of public safety concerns.
Snap is promising full refunds to all Pixy owners (even if the drone was a gift). The company asks that the Pixy battery pack be removed—and that EPA guidelines for disposal are followed—before returning the drone via the recall website.
The original price for the Pixy was $229, but even using a discounted price of $185 for each drone, if all 71,000 owners take advantage of the recall (admittedly unlikely) that's a $13+ million hit to Snap.
