Numerous reports of failing straps cause Nintendo to issue free replacements.
It's been just shy of a month since Wii made its world-wide debut in North America, and the console seems to be doing quite well by standard measurements. However, the launch has not been without its hic-ups. A few software bugs in the form of an obscure Zelda show-stopper and slightly unstable firmware have manifested. But most notably, the standard wrist-strap is reportedly snapping from time to time, causing isolated injuries to property. Most reported incidents have occured during Wii Sports sessions, particularly tennis, baseball and bowling. Some personal injuries have been reported, but these are primarily due to limbs colliding with nearby objects rather than strapless remotes colliding with people.
In response to the failing strap problem, Nintendo is offering wrist-strap replacement to interested consumers. Among other things, the form requires that you provide the serial number that is printed on the back of your Wii, and allows you to request up to 4 replacement straps. The AP reports that the replacement program will cost Nintendo "several million dollars". Nintendo claims that consoles shipping since early December already contain the beefed up strap.