Snap Recalls Failed Pixy Drone Due to Risk its Battery May Ignite

Snap launched its miniature Pixy drone in 2022, though it ended production just four months later. Now, the company is recalling all of the drones it sold due to fire hazards from the batteries.

When the Snap Pixy Drone launched in 2022, it seemed promising. Snap was no stranger to hardware, having previously created the Snap Spectacles. The drone was long-rumored and offered Snapchat users a pocket-sized, easy-to-use drone option. It takes off from the palm of the hand with the tap of a button and features four preset flight paths. Videos from flights are transferred wirelessly and saved to Snapchat memories, where users can then access the app’s editing tools and share the content.

Unfortunately, things didn’t pan out well for Pixy. Snap ended production after only four months, without much of an explanation.

And now, both Snap and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) say users should “immediately stop using the Pixy Flying Camera, remove the battery, and stop charging it,” The Verge reports.

There have been four reports of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery bulging, one fire, and even one “minor injury.”The CPSC says that Snap sold roughly 71,000 units, though that includes extra batteries on top of drones, so it isn’t clear exactly how many drones were sold.

Those who purchased a Pixy Drone can receive a full refund for the drone and any purchased batteries. As long as it was purchased full-price, that should be $185 back to customers. Users don’t need a receipt for the refund, either. They can apply even if they received the drone as a gift.

To receive a refund, users will need to return the drone, minus the batteries. Those who need to return their drone can fill out a quick and simple form at this link with the drone’s serial number. From there, Snap will email a prepaid return label. Users will then need to find a safe way to dispose of the problematic lithium-ion batteries on their own. Luckily, hardware stores and big box stores such as Target typically offer a bin near the entrances to drop batteries. Users can find recycling locations at this link as well.

Image credits: Snap