Following the reports of battery explosion incidents, Samsung announced a global recall of its Galaxy 7 on Friday.
Samsung revealed that as of Sept.1, there have been 35 reported cases of the said incident globally. The company has conducted thorough investigation and learned that a battery cell issue is the culprit behind it. This has led to the company's decision to halt sales of the Galaxy Note 7. The company also pointed out that customers' safety is "an absolute priority" thus putting the sale on hold is deem fit.
WATCH: Why do batteries in devices explode? - https://t.co/w8J87TY9OY #Note7 #Samsung pic.twitter.com/GJfbm88YUB
— Khaleej Times (@khaleejtimes) September 2, 2016
The Aftermath Of The Recall
On Friday, Koh Dong-jin, President of Samsung's mobile business, expressed regret over the recall. The incidents have an unfortunate timing especially since the Galaxy Note 7 was just released last month.
The company puts its sale on hold in 10 markets including South Korea and the United States. However, China can push through with its sale since its models utilize a different battery.
Samsung plans to replace units sold to consumers as well as retailer inventories and those still in shipments. Koh refused to comment on the total damage cost.
"I can't comment on exactly how much the cost will be," Koh reiterated "but it pains my heart that it will be such a big number."
It was believed that Samsung already sold 2.5 million of the Galaxy Note 7.
What To Do With Your Galaxy Note 7?
Samsung has already offered to voluntarily replace affected device with a new one over the coming weeks. But for consumers who don't want to wait until next week, some US carriers are ready to help starting Friday.
Here are the instructions for each carrier.
Go to Samsung
Samsung will give the option to exchange recalled Galaxy Note 7 for a brand new and fixed unit. Users also have the option to exchnage the Galaxy Note 7 for a Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge with a refund for the price difference. Samsung advises users to return the device to where they originally bought it or call 1-800-SAMSUNG.
Customers are also entitled of a $25 gift card or bill credit for the inconvenience.
Sprint
Sprint has made an announcement via Twitter that customers can visit their local Sprint store to return the defective Galaxy Note 7 and will be given a "similar device" to use temporarily until the said issue is fixed.
Verizon Wireless
Verizon customers can return the Galaxy Note 7, with Verizon waiving the restocking fee through September 30
AT&T
The company has released a statement, "strongly encouraging" customers to exchange the device along with any accessories purchased with it.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile will issue full refunds for the Galaxy Note 7 and accessories. Visit your local T-Mobile store or call 1-800-937-8997. Replacement is expected "in the next two weeks".
Best Buy
Galaxy Note 7 bought in Best Buy can have a full refund as well.
