Samsung Galaxy Note7 Sales Are On Fire…Literally
In an announcement made last Friday, Samsung Electronics Co. and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urged consumers to turn off and turn in their Galaxy Note7 smartphones. The Korean-based tech company launched the latest version of its smartphone back in August, after which more than two dozen fires involving the device’s lithium-ion batteries were reported.
Samsung quickly responded with a voluntary global recall of the device, stating that, “The safety and satisfaction of our customers is Samsung’s top priority.” The company continues to encourage anyone with a Galaxy Note7 to participate in its U.S. Product Exchange Program, offering $25 gift cards to those who turn in their devices.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also issued a statement strongly advising passengers not to bring their Note7 devices on board any aircraft, including in any checked baggage.
The situation is reminiscent of Amazon’s hoverboard recall issued last December after more than 30 boards sold were reported to have caught on fire. The internet giant banned the sale of more than 40 different brands of hoverboards from a number of companies, while urging consumers who had already purchased the popular items to “dispose” of them in exchange for a full refund.
Pending CPSC approval, Samsung hopes to fully replace all 2.5 million Note7 smartphones sold. Until then, consumers can exchange their device for a “loaner phone” or for the Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge. For more information, click here.