GoPro has today announced the recall of all Karma drones purchased since the hotly anticipated device went on sale a mere 16 days ago.
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Citing an “intermittent power failure during operation” as the reason for the recall, GoPro is asking all consumers to stop using the drone immediately. It estimates that around 2,500 units are being recalled. There's no word yet on whether any customers have already been affected by the issue, but we'll update with more details when we get them. No injuries or property damage have been reported.
Although the FAQ on the GoPro website applies primarily to US consumers, it appears that buyers will receive a full refund for their Karma and any additional accessories purchased with the drone if returned to the retailer they purchased it from. Replacement units are not being issued, but GoPro plans to to resume shipments of Karma “as soon as the issue is resolved”.
This announcement comes at a time when GoPro’s once dominant position in the action camera market is looking less certain, with viable competitors such as the Garmin Virb and falling stock prices putting pressure on the US brand.
We have reached out to GoPro for a comment and will update this article as we receive more information throughout the day.
Full statement from GoPro
Karma Recall and Return Information
Last updated November 08, 2016
GoPro is committed to providing our customers with great product experiences. To honor this commitment, we have recalled Karma until we resolve a performance issue related to a loss of power during operation. We plan to resume shipment of Karma once the issue is addressed.
