If you’re a parent to a young child, chances are you’ve heard of or own a Yoto Mini. The beloved Bluetooth speaker, designed for kids, offers a fun way to enjoy stories, music, and podcasts with NFC-equipped cards. However, safety concerns surrounding certain batches of the device have led to a significant recall effort. Here’s a detailed look at the recall, why it happened, and what you need to do if you own a Yoto Mini.
Table of Contents
Why Was the Yoto Mini Recalled?
The recall first surfaced in April 2024 when Yoto identified an overheating issue linked to the lithium-ion batteries in certain Yoto Mini devices manufactured between 2021 and 2023.
Key Issues:
- Overheating incidents were reported in six cases in the U.S. and one in the U.K.
- The faulty batteries posed a burn and fire hazard, although no injuries were reported.
Approximately 340,000 units were sold worldwide, including 18,932 in Canada. The batteries in question came from a specific supplier, prompting Yoto to suspend production with the supplier and implement safety measures.
Steps Taken in the Initial Recall
In response to the issue, Yoto rolled out several corrective actions:
- Free Smart Cables: Customers received USB-C smart cables designed to mitigate risks.
- $30 Credit: A credit was provided to customers who registered proof of cable replacement.
- Software Updates: Firmware updates were introduced to improve device safety.
Why Is There a New Recall Announcement?
The December 2024 announcement is not a new recall but an expansion of the original recall efforts. Additional incidents have been reported, including:
- Five new cases of overheating, primarily in devices with drained batteries or non-approved charging cables.
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Affected Devices
If your Yoto Mini was manufactured between 2021 and 2023 and has a serial number starting with 1FE, 2FE, 3FE, 4FE, 5FE, 6FE, 7FE, or 8FE, it may be affected.
You can find the 14-digit serial number on the base of the device.
What Is Yoto Doing to Resolve the Issue?
Yoto is now offering free battery replacement kits for all affected devices. This includes customers who previously participated in the initial recall and received a smart cable.
Additional Benefits:
- A $30 CAD credit for customers who register their repaired device.
- Detailed video instructions to assist with battery replacement.
How to Order the Battery Replacement Kit
- Already Registered for Smart Cable?
You’ll receive an email with steps to order the replacement kit. - Haven’t Registered Yet?
Visit Yoto’s website, enter your device’s serial number, and place your order if eligible.
Timeline for Replacement Kits
- Canada & U.S. Customers: Kits will begin shipping on Dec. 12, 2024, through tracked courier service.
- Other Regions (Including the U.K.): Kits will be available for shipment in early 2025.
Common Questions About the Replacement
Do I Still Need to Cut the New Smart Cable?
No. You can continue using the smart cable as it provides an extra layer of safety.
Can I Use Any USB-C Cable After Battery Replacement?
While any USB-C cable can be used, Yoto recommends continuing with the smart cable for optimal protection.
When Will I Receive My $30 CAD Credit?
The credit will be emailed to you 45 days after you’ve registered your repaired device.
How to Replace the Battery
Yoto has provided a detailed video tutorial for replacing the battery using the replacement kit. You can access the video on their official website or through the email instructions provided.
Stay Safe and Informed
If you own a Yoto Mini, act promptly to ensure your device is safe for continued use. The recall effort highlights Yoto’s commitment to addressing the issue and keeping customers informed.
Don’t delay—order your free replacement kit today and take advantage of the $30 CAD credit. Stay updated on any further developments by checking Yoto’s official website or recall notices from Health Canada.
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