Premium-priced unit failed at 14 months with fire-hazard battery swelling - manufacturer reversed written replacement commitment
Purchased January 2025 for CAD$1,437.45. After approximately 14 months of light, non-commercial use, the internal LiPo battery swelled severely, deforming the device so the case no longer closes. YoloLiv's own user manual states the device should not be used when the battery is "severely swollen and deformed" - this is a recognized fire / thermal-runaway hazard. Contacted YoloLiv support directly. Their first written response acknowledged this is "a rare and serious battery swelling issue" and promised a free replacement. After receiving the device's serial number, they reversed that position and demanded $50 USD. After significant back-and-forth, they agreed in writing on May 19, 2026 to send a Pro battery free of charge. Since then: two tracking numbers issued (May 21 and May 25). Neither returns any data in any major multi-carrier tracking platform after seven days. My formal request for a dispatch receipt sent May 26 has gone unanswered for 72 hours. The device itself worked well during its short lifespan. The issues are: (1) premature catastrophic battery failure on a premium-priced unit, (2) manufacturer customer service that reverses written commitments, and (3) absence of verifiable shipping for a promised replacement. Buy at your own risk - particularly given the safety implications of an unmonitored LiPo cell in a device intended for portable use.