Summary:
The FDA has issued a Class I recall of Mo-Vis R-net wheelchair joysticks due to a firmware flaw that can cause unintended movement, posing a risk of serious injury or death.

Key Takeaways:

  • The flaw affects firmware versions 2.3 and lower, with one reported injury and no deaths.
  • Impacted joysticks include Micro Joystick R-net, Multi Joystick R-net, and several IDM models.
  • Mo-Vis is correcting devices via a firmware update to version 2.6, not removing them from use.

Mo-Vis BVBA has announced a recall of its R-net joystick controllers after identifying a firmware error that can cause wheelchairs to move unexpectedly, posing a serious risk of injury or death.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the issue occurs when affected devices fail to recognize the joystick’s neutral setting, allowing the wheelchair to move on its own. The flaw has been corrected in firmware version 2.6 but remains present in versions 2.3 and earlier.

The FDA classified the action as a Class I recall, its most serious designation, warning that continued use of the uncorrected devices may result in severe health consequences. Potential outcomes include chronic pain, loss of mobility, post-concussive syndromes, worsening infections requiring surgery, prolonged hospitalization, or even death. One injury has been reported to date, with no associated deaths.

The recall does not involve removing products from use or sale, but rather correcting them through a firmware update. On July 10, 2025, Mo-Vis sent urgent notices to customers outlining steps to upgrade devices to version 2.6 during scheduled annual maintenance. Users are instructed to verify the update once completed and contact the company for assistance if needed.

Products affected include all Mo-Vis R-net joysticks running firmware version 2.3 or lower, sold under the following names:

  • Micro Joystick R-net
  • Multi Joystick R-net
  • IDM-MICRO-R
  • IDM-MULTI-R
  • All-round Joystick R-net Light
  • IDM-ARLITE-R

The R-net joysticks are proportional controllers used by power wheelchair users as an alternative to standard joystick controls, connecting directly into a wheelchair’s control box.

Customers in the U.S. with questions are encouraged to contact Mo-Vis BVBA at +32-9-335-28-60 or [email protected].

Featured image: Dreamstime