Segway recalls transporters over software problem

Update 8/5/08: The recall was actually from 2006 and described in this press release. Note to self: Apparently, Google Alerts sometimes sends old stuff so be more careful next time.

Segway, the "personal transporter" company launched to great fanfare in 2001, has issued a product recall due to software problems.

From the Segway website, here's a description of the issue:

A condition has been identified in which the Segway PT can unexpectedly apply reverse torque to the wheels, which can cause a rider to fall. We have received six incident reports with event logs that may be attributed to this issue. At Segway, the safety of our customers and our products is our top priority. Thus, we notified the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission about this matter and initiated a voluntary recall to upgrade Segway PTs with new software.

Proprietary tools are required to install the software, so the upgrade must be installed by an authorized dealer. Software and bugs are everywhere in our modern lives, sometimes leading to failure in unexpected places.

[Via ExtremeTech. Image copyright Segway and used by permission.]