So you have gotten yourself a brand new Samsung Galaxy Note 7, but stories of exploding batteries and cars catching fire from the phablet itself has gotten you concerned. Rather than think twice before bringing the device on the plane with you, rest assured that Samsung’s US recall of the Galaxy Note 7 is in full swing, and here is what you need to know.
Both Samsung as well as the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have stepped forward to say that those who own the affected Galaxy Note 7 models should turn the device off, and return it to where you picked it up from. As for the FAA, there is an official advice for one to avoid using or charging the Galaxy Note 7 in a flight. With the CPSC’s recall, doing otherwise would be an illegal act.
Samsung claims that the battery cells in the Galaxy Note 7 are the main culprit, due to the low quality in the manufacturing process. Such low quality battery cells tend to be a whole lot more susceptible to overheating as well as failing when they are charged and used frequently. It could be an error in production that resulted in pressure on plates that held the battery cells, resulting in negative and positive poles coming into contact. From there, excessive heat is triggered.
Basically, if you purchased your Galaxy Note 7 before September 15, then your phablet would fall under the official recall category. Samsung has even ensured that they will mark boxes of the new "safe" Galaxy Note 7s, so that you can heave a breath of relief before you go on board your next flight. Should the Galaxy Note 7 box miss out on the "S" mark and/or black square on its label, then this would mean the device within is a potential time bomb waiting to go off.
In order to check the manufacturing date of your Galaxy Note 7, record the IMEI number before keying it in at Samsung's official recall website. If you are unfortunate enough to own a recalled Galaxy Note 7, then be prepared to give up your device. Samsung will replace it, and such a process is tipped to take a few weeks. In fact, Samsung claims that the new and safe Galaxy Note 7s will arrive in retail stores on September 21, latest.
Of course, if you prefer not to take your chances even with a replacement Galaxy Note 7 from Samsung, you can opt for a Galaxy S7/S7 edge and earn a refund for the difference. Those who have even gone further to pick up accessories will be able to exchange it for the Galaxy S7 equivalents.
Samsung, in a show of goodwill, will be offering a $25 phone bill credit or a $25 gift card as well. You are encouraged to call 1-800-SAMSUNG in order to arrange a mail exchange, although you can also head back to the unit to the retail store where you picked it up.
