What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving the Altafit smartwatch, specifically manufactured by Deale International. This action was taken because the product presents a significant safety risk to consumers. If you own an Altafit af28 model, it is crucial to understand exactly which items are affected so you can take immediate steps to protect yourself and your home. The recall focuses on a specific variant of the Altafit smartwatch that was marketed with aesthetic features designed to appeal to style-conscious buyers, but this particular design contains a critical flaw in its power system.
The recalled devices are the Altafit af28 smartwatches. These watches were distinctively styled and came in two color options: gold and silver tones. Each unit featured a 1.68-inch color touchscreen display, which is standard for many modern wearable devices. To accommodate different user preferences, each watch was packaged with two separate bands: one bejeweled band for a more decorative look and one mesh band for a sportier or more casual appearance. The watch itself was housed in a golden case, giving it a premium visual appeal that likely contributed to its popularity among shoppers.
A key identifier for this recall is the packaging and charging accessories included with the watch. Each Altafit af28 smartwatch came with a wireless charging pad and a corresponding cable. It is important to note that the model number "ALTAFIT FCC ID 2BHG8-AF28" is printed on the back of the watch case. If you look at the rear of your device and see this specific FCC identification code, your watch falls under this recall notice. The presence of the wireless charging pad is the central component of concern, as it is the part that has been found to overheat.
These smartwatches were sold exclusively through HSN, a well-known home shopping network and retailer. They were available for purchase in both gold and silver finishes. Deale International, the manufacturer, initiated this recall on August 7, 2025, after identifying that the wireless charging technology used in these units was not meeting safety standards under certain conditions. While the exact total number of units sold is not specified in the current CPSC record, the company has already received dozens of reports indicating that the hazard is active and affecting consumers. If you purchased this specific combination of watch model, color, and charging accessory from HSN prior to the recall date, your device is likely included in this safety alert.
The hazard, explained
At the core of this recall is a specific failure in the wireless charging component of the Altafit af28 smartwatch. When you place your watch on the included golden case to charge, electricity flows through a coil inside that base to transfer power to the watch’s battery without physical metal contacts. In these recalled units, that wireless charging pad can overheat significantly beyond normal operating temperatures. Instead of just feeling warm, which is typical for fast-charging devices, the internal components can reach temperatures high enough to ignite surrounding materials.
This overheating does not happen randomly; it is a result of a defect in the charging circuitry or battery management system within the pad itself. When the electrical resistance becomes too high or the thermal regulation fails, the energy that should be safely stored in your watch’s battery instead converts into intense heat. According to reports from Deale International, this heat buildup has led to the plastic casing melting, the electronic components burning, and in severe cases, the device catching fire entirely. This is not a minor glitch—it is a thermal runaway event where the device essentially becomes a small, uncontrolled heat source.
The danger lies in what happens when that heat meets skin or flammable surfaces. Because you are often holding the watch or placing it on nightstands, desks, or bedsides while it charges, the risk of direct contact is high. Six reported incidents involved actual burns to consumers’ hands, illustrating how quickly this hazard can escalate. The melting plastic and burning electronics release hot debris and potentially toxic fumes, creating a dual threat: immediate thermal injury from the surface temperature and property damage from potential fires spreading to nearby fabrics or furniture.
It is important to understand that standard smartwatch chargers are designed with safety features to prevent this exact scenario. They usually include temperature sensors and automatic shut-off mechanisms when optimal charge levels are reached. In these defective Altafit units, those safeguards appear to have failed, allowing the device to continue drawing power and generating heat even as it becomes dangerously hot. This is why the hazard is classified as serious: it can occur during normal use, often while the user is sleeping or away from the immediate area, leaving little time to react before injury or damage occurs.
If you notice any unusual warmth, discoloration, or smell of burning plastic from your charger, do not ignore it. These are clear signs that the internal components are failing. The combination of a lithium-ion battery and a faulty charging pad creates a volatile situation. While most electronic devices have built-in protections, when those protections fail, the result can be unpredictable and dangerous. This is why immediate action is required to remove the hazard from your home.
Who is most at risk
The Altafit smartwatch recall highlights a specific intersection of technology and daily routine that places certain users in a uniquely precarious position. At its core, the primary group at immediate risk consists of individuals who own or regularly use the Altafit af28 smartwatch, particularly those who purchased it through HSN. However, the nature of this hazard—a wireless charging pad overheating to the point of ignition—creates a secondary layer of vulnerability that extends beyond mere ownership to include anyone in the immediate vicinity of the device while it is plugged in.
While the physical danger of fire and burns affects everyone equally in terms of potential injury severity, certain demographics face heightened risks due to physiological factors and typical usage patterns. Young children are particularly vulnerable for several reasons. First, their skin is thinner and more sensitive than that of adults, meaning that even brief contact with a hot surface can result in deeper, more severe burns. Second, children may not immediately recognize the signs of an overheating device or may lack the cognitive maturity to quickly react and move away from a burning object. If a child’s bed or play area is near where the watch is charging, the risk of accidental contact during sleep or rest increases significantly.
Elderly users also warrant special consideration in this context. As smartwatches become increasingly popular among older adults for health monitoring and connectivity, many may be less familiar with the specific quirks of wireless charging technology compared to traditional wired methods. This lack of familiarity can lead to a delayed recognition of warning signs, such as unusual heat or smoke. Furthermore, physiological changes associated with aging, such as reduced skin elasticity and slower nerve response times, can exacerbate burn injuries. An elderly person might experience a burn that is more difficult to heal or manage, leading to longer recovery periods and greater complications.
Additionally, individuals who charge their smartwatches overnight or while leaving the house are at elevated risk. The recall notes that incidents have occurred while charging, suggesting that unattended use is a critical factor. When a device is left unmonitored for extended periods, there is no one present to intervene if the charging pad begins to overheat. This is especially true for those who may have hearing impairments or sleep deeply, potentially missing auditory cues like popping sounds or alarms that might accompany an electrical failure. The combination of a flammable material (the plastic casing and bands) and an unmonitored heat source creates a perfect storm for fire hazards.
It is also important to consider those with mobility issues or disabilities who might have difficulty quickly unplugging a device in an emergency. If the charging pad becomes hot enough to ignite, the speed of response is crucial. Individuals who rely on assistance for daily tasks may find themselves dependent on caregivers to notice and act on the hazard, which introduces a potential delay in safety measures. Therefore, while the recall applies to all owners, those with thinner skin, slower reaction times, or limited ability to respond quickly are at the highest risk of serious harm.
Finally, the psychological impact on households should not be underestimated. The fear of fire and burns can cause significant stress and anxiety for families, especially when the hazard is hidden within a seemingly benign everyday object like a watch charger. This emotional burden falls disproportionately on parents and caregivers who are responsible for the safety of their loved ones, making prompt action not just a physical necessity but an emotional imperative.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before taking any action, it is essential to confirm exactly which smartwatch you own. Deale International has issued this recall specifically for the Altafit af28 model. Because counterfeit or similar-looking devices are common in the market, relying solely on the brand name "Altafit" is not enough. You must verify the specific model number and unique identifiers to ensure your device is part of this safety notice.
The most reliable way to identify a recalled unit is by examining the back of the watch face. Look closely at the rear casing for the FCC ID marking. The affected devices will clearly display "ALTAFIT FCC ID 2BHG8-AF28". If your watch does not bear this specific FCC ID code, it is likely not part of this recall, though you should always double-check with official sources if you are uncertain.
In addition to the FCC ID, you can identify the recalled smartwatches by their physical appearance and packaging details. These devices were sold in both gold and silver tones. They feature a 1.68-inch color touchscreen display. A distinctive characteristic of this model is that it comes with two separate bands: one bejeweled band and one mesh band. The watch itself was housed in a golden case and included a wireless charging pad along with its connecting cable. If your smartwatch matches these visual descriptions, particularly the combination of the specific screen size, the dual-band inclusion, and the golden case design, it may be one of the affected units.
You should also consider where and how you purchased the watch. These Altafit af28 smartwatches were sold by HSN. If you bought your device through HSN or their associated online platforms around the time this recall was announced, it is highly probable that your unit is included in this safety alert. Keep an eye out for the wireless charging pad as well; the hazard lies within this component, so ensuring you have the correct model with its specific charging accessory is key to determining if you need to act.
If you are unsure after checking these details, do not guess. Contact Deale International directly using the information provided in this notice. You can call their toll-free number at 877-880-6137 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit their website at www.thedeale.com/pages/altafit-safety-recall for further assistance. When in doubt, it is always safer to treat the device as if it were recalled until you receive confirmation otherwise.
What to do — step by step
If you own an Altafit smartwatch purchased through HSN, time is of the essence. The recall involves a specific fire and burn hazard linked to the device’s wireless charging mechanism. Deale International, the company behind this recall, has issued clear instructions to mitigate these serious risks. Please follow these steps carefully to protect yourself and your home. **Step 1: Stop Charging Immediately** The very first thing you must do is unplug the smartwatch’s charging pad from the electrical outlet. Do not leave it plugged in, even if the watch appears to be fully charged or if you plan to use it later. The hazard stems specifically from the wireless charging pad overheating and potentially igniting while connected to power. By unplugging the device, you remove the energy source that could cause a fire. This is not a suggestion; it is an immediate safety requirement. **Step 2: Cease All Use of the Device** Once the charger is disconnected, stop using the recalled Altafit af28 smartwatch entirely. While the primary risk is during charging, the report indicates that units have melted and caught fire. Continuing to use a device with a known internal defect in its power management system is dangerous. Put the watch aside in a safe, non-flammable area until you have contacted Deale International for further instructions. **Step 3: Contact Deale International for Replacement Instructions** You are entitled to a free replacement smartwatch. To obtain this remedy, you need to reach out to Deale International directly. You can call their toll-free number at 877-880-6137 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may email them at altafitrecall@thedeale.com or visit their dedicated recall page at www.thedeale.com/pages/altafit-safety-recall. When you contact them, they will guide you through the process of receiving your new device. **Step 3a: Prepare Your Recalled Item for Disposal** Before mailing back or discarding the old unit, Deale International requires specific actions to ensure safety. You must cut the power cable of the unplugged charging pad. This physical destruction ensures the defective component cannot be reused by anyone else and confirms that you have taken the device out of circulation. After cutting the cable, take a clear photo of the charging pad showing the severed wire. **Step 4: Submit Proof of Disposal** Send the photograph of the cut charging pad to altafitrecall@thedeale.com. This step is crucial for the recall process. It serves as verification that you have safely neutralized the hazard and are complying with the recall terms. Without this proof, your request for a replacement may be delayed or denied. Keep a copy of your email confirmation for your records. By following these steps, you are not only protecting your household from potential fire and burn injuries but also ensuring you receive your free replacement without unnecessary hassle. The risk is real—39 reports of melting and burning have already been documented—but Deale International has provided a straightforward path to resolution.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Altafit smartwatches, Deale International has established a clear and free remedy to ensure your safety. The primary solution offered is a complimentary replacement unit. Rather than attempting to repair the defective charging pad—which remains a potential fire risk—or issuing a partial refund, the company is providing a new device at no cost to you. This approach prioritizes your continued use of the product while completely eliminating the hazard associated with the original wireless charger. It is important to note that this is not an automatic process; you must take specific steps to initiate the replacement and verify your eligibility.
To begin the process, you first need to secure your current setup by immediately unplugging the smartwatch’s charging pad from any power source. Do not attempt to charge the device again using the recalled pad. Once the charger is disconnected, you will need to contact Deale International directly. You can reach their dedicated recall support team by calling their toll-free number at 877-880-6137. This line is operational from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to altafitrecall@thedeale.com for written instructions or further assistance.
A critical part of the remedy involves proof that you have disposed of the hazardous component. After unplugging the charger, you are required to cut the power cable of the charging pad. This physical destruction ensures the defective item cannot be used by anyone else and confirms your compliance with the safety instructions. Once the cable is cut, you must take a clear photo of the charging pad showing the severed cable. You will need to email this photograph to altafitrecall@thedeale.com as part of your request for the free replacement.
If you prefer not to use email or have questions about the process, you can visit www.thedeale.com/pages/altafit-safety-recall directly. Another convenient option is to go to the main website at www.thedeale.com and click on "RECALL INFORMATION" located at the top of the page. These online resources will provide detailed guidance and likely allow you to submit your request and photos securely. By following these steps precisely, you ensure that you receive your replacement quickly and that the fire hazard is permanently removed from your home.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to want to get your money’s worth out of a new gadget, especially one that looks as stylish as the Altafit smartwatch. You might think that if the charging pad hasn’t sparked yet, it will continue to work safely until you can get around to replacing it. However, with this specific hazard, waiting is not a neutral choice; it is an active risk multiplier. The core issue here is thermal runaway. When the internal components of the wireless charging pad fail or overheat, they do not simply stop working. They continue to generate heat, often rapidly and without warning. If you leave the device plugged in, that heat has nowhere to go. It builds up inside the plastic casing and the battery, turning a minor malfunction into a significant fire hazard.
The data from Deale International paints a sobering picture of what happens when this risk is ignored. They have already documented 39 separate incidents where these smartwatches melted, burned, or caught fire entirely while in use. This is not just about ruining a $100 watch; it is about the secondary damage that occurs when electronics ignite. We are talking about scorched nightstands, damaged charging cables, and potentially broken furniture. The reports of property damage indicate that these incidents have already caused tangible harm to people’s homes, going far beyond the product itself.
Even more concerning are the personal injuries reported. Six individuals have already suffered burns to their hands. Think about the mechanics of using a smartwatch: you are likely charging it on your nightstand or desk, often within arm's reach while you sleep or work. If the pad ignites, the heat is concentrated in the palm of your hand or the fingers holding the device. A burn from an overheating lithium-ion battery or electronic component can be severe, causing pain, scarring, and potentially requiring medical attention. Ignoring the recall means placing your physical safety at the mercy of a faulty piece of hardware that has already proven it cannot be trusted.
Furthermore, there is the element of unpredictability. Fire hazards from electronics do not always announce themselves with smoke before flames appear. In some cases, the plastic casing melts and drips, spreading flammable material to nearby surfaces. By continuing to use the recalled Altafit af28 smartwatch, you are essentially rolling the dice. You might get lucky and nothing happens for a week, or you might be the next person in the 39 reports of failure. The remedy is simple and free: a replacement watch from Deale International. There is no logical reason to gamble with your safety when a safe alternative is being offered right now.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in the Altafit smartwatch’s charging mechanism, it serves as an important reminder that electronic devices, particularly those that generate heat during charging, require consistent vigilance. The majority of home fires involving electronics are not caused by inherent design flaws but by improper usage or neglect of basic safety principles. By adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and injury in your own home, regardless of the brand of device you own.
First, always use the charging accessories that came with your device or those explicitly certified by the manufacturer. Third-party chargers often lack the necessary safety certifications and voltage regulation components, which can lead to overheating just like the defective pads in this recall. When you plug in any smartwatch, fitness tracker, or smartphone, ensure the charging surface is clean, dry, and heat-resistant. Never charge these devices under pillows, blankets, or on flammable surfaces like wood furniture without a protective mat. Heat needs to dissipate; if it is trapped against fabric or wood, the temperature can rise rapidly enough to ignite materials.
Secondly, establish a routine for inspecting your charging cables and adapters. Over time, wires can fray, connectors can loosen, and casings can crack, all of which create short-circuit risks that may not be immediately obvious. If you notice any discoloration on the charging port, a burning smell, or if the device becomes uncomfortably hot to the touch during normal use, unplug it immediately and stop using it. Do not attempt to repair damaged cables yourself; instead, replace them with manufacturer-approved parts. Regularly checking your devices for physical damage can catch potential hazards before they become emergencies.
Finally, stay informed about product safety through official channels. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regularly issue recalls for items ranging from cribs to car seats to electronics. You can sign up for email alerts on the CPSC website to receive notifications about new recalls relevant to your household. Additionally, ensure you have working smoke detectors in your home, testing them monthly and replacing batteries at least once a year. These simple, proactive steps create a layer of protection that goes far beyond any single product recall, keeping your family safer in the long run.