Overview
- A Reddit user reported that a metal smartwatch band contacted the Steam Controller’s magnetic charging puck and caused the band and puck to sizzle and show cosmetic burn marks, a problem first detailed in coverage on May 22.
- Journalists checked the puck with a multimeter and found a constant voltage across its exposed pogo pins, meaning the contacts remain electrically live whenever the puck is plugged in.
- Valve’s hardware team contacted the affected owner, offered a replacement puck and is recovering the damaged items to try to reproduce the short; the company has not issued a wider recall or replacement program.
- Valve’s user manual warns that magnetic parts can attract metal and risk sparks, and outlets advise users to unplug or store the puck away from metallic objects when not in use.
- The design mirrors a common low-cost approach used in other controller docks that trade a simple always-live contact for lower cost, and the incident has renewed calls for safer connector designs or clearer, more prominent warnings.