14 DAY TRIAL // The LG G Watch was launched into the wild not so long ago, but the company has already pushed out a few software updates for it.
Most recently, a few days ago, owners received a notification that bumped their software from version KMV78V to KMV78Y. Since the new build didn't come with a changelog, we’re yet to discover the full implications of what the update brings to the table.
However, Android Police reports that one of their readers got in touch with an LG representative and managed to get a statement regarding the new update. The explanation was also corroborated by a Google spokesperson.
According to LG, some customers who purchased the watch report that the devices have “developed discoloration and residue buildup on the terminal pins located on the back.”
While the company claims that this inconvenience won’t affect daily routines such as charging, LG wants to be on the safe side of things, so it will be rolling out a maintenance update over-the-air (OTA) for all G Watches.
For the past few weeks, owners of the LG G Watch have been complaining about bumping into these charging issues, brought about by the galvanic corrosion effect we mentioned above.
This happens when electrical current flows through two different materials and an electrolyte (which, in this case, is human sweat).
However, what seems more disturbing is that some users have been complaining of feeling uncomfortable while using the device, which is said to cause burns on the skin.
But LG’s software update apparently disables the current flowing through the metal contacts when the smartwatch isn't located in its charging cradle.
Hopefully, the new update will solve the skin irritation problems. If left unresolved, this might become a major turn-off for customers contemplating purchasing such a device.
What’s interesting is that, not so long ago, we told you a similar story about the Samsung Gear Live. The smartwatch was released alongside the LG G Watch at the Google I/O.
Like in the case of LG, some users have reported that the charging ports of the wearable have stopped working completely after a few recharges, leaving the devices utterly useless.
Samsung appears to be more sluggish in resolving the issue than LG, so kudos to the latter company for hurrying up to fix whatever is bothering users.
Skin irritations are a major problem with wearables and you might recall the already famous Fitbit Force story, which was pulled from the market due to a huge number of skin irritation complaints.
