The Jawbone Up was an interesting product from the Bluetooth headset maker, as it was a high-tech wristband which used an iPhone app to help you get in better shape. Unfortunately, many have been complaining of defective products, so Jawbone is suspending orders and offering all customers a full refund, even if you keep the product.
In a letter from the CEO, the company said:
Jawbone remains deeply committed to addressing all issues with UP, investing in the category and giving our customers the tools to live a healthier life. We’ve temporarily paused production of UP bands and will begin taking new orders once these issues have been sorted out. In the meantime, we’ll continue to release app updates for existing users.
We regret any disappointment we’ve created for our community of users and appreciate the trust you’ve put in us. The fact that you’ve taken the time to talk with us and help us make a better product is simply phenomenal. Our customers have always been part of our team and we’re incredibly grateful for that.
I’ve been using the Jawbone Up for about two and a half weeks and it’s a very interesting take on personal health. One thing that drives me insane is that you have to plug it in to the iPhone’s headphone jack to sync data – Jawbone built its company on Bluetooth technology, so why isn’t this wireless? My unit has been working fine and it really does help you pay more attention to your exercise routine and what you’re eating even if the app could use more work.
I wish this hadn’t happened but at least Jawbone is doing the right thing and refunding without any questions. I believe the personal health monitoring space with smartphones is going to explode over the next few years but not without a few bumps in the road.
[Get your refund here]