Amazon warns headphones pose safety risk – issues urgent software update to prevent overheating
AMAZON has warned that its popular Echo Buds headphones pose a safety risk.
The retail giant has issued an urgent update that users should install immediately – to prevent overheating.
Customers were warned of the issue by an email sent out on July 15.
The issue relates specifically to the Echo Buds, a pair of £119/$129 wireless earbuds released last year.
They're a direct rival to the popular Apple AirPods, but now come with a stark warning.
"We recently determined that in very rare cases it is possible for Echo Buds to overheat while in the charging case," Amazon warned.
To fix the issue, Amazon is rolling out an immediate update.
You'll need to make sure your Echo Buds are connected to your phone and charged to receive the update.
The update should be automatic, so you won't need to manually do anything – other than make sure they're connected.
Amazon confirmed the issue in a statement sent to The Sun.
“The safety of our customers is our top priority," an Amazon spokesperson told us.
"Out of an abundance of caution, we have released a software update addressing this potential issue and have contacted affected customers."
What are the Amazon Echo Buds?
Here's what you need to know...
The Echo Buds are Amazon's first set of true wireless earphones.
They're powered by the Seattle firm's AI assistant Alexa, who's also loaded into Amazon's popular Echo smart speaker range.
On top of this, the Buds feature noise-reduction technology designed by audio giant Bose to help you block out noise from the outside world.
According to Amazon: "Designed for wherever your day leads you, Echo Buds are an easy way to access Alexa hands-free while on-the-go."
The Buds' noise-reduction "reduces ambient noise so Alexa can hear you whether you’re walking to class, on your lunch break, or commuting home on the train", the firm says.
To check if you've received the update, open the Alexa app on your phone.
Then go into Devices > Echo & Alexa > Echo Buds > About.
You'll be looking for software version 318119151 or higher, which means you've received the update.
If you haven't got the update, reconnect the Echo Buds to your phone via Bluetooth, and make sure the earbuds and case are both charged.
Keep the lid on the case closed and the update will begin shortly.
Wait between 30 minutes and an hour before using the Echo Buds again to ensure that the software update goes through.
It's unclear if there have been any incidents related to Amazon's Echo Buds overheating, or how Amazon came to be aware of the problem.
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In other news, check out our Amazon Echo Buds review.
Take a look at our review of the brand new iPhone 11.
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And if you've got more money to burn, you'll want to read about the iPhone 11 Pro instead.
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