Stop using Galaxy Note 7 right away: Samsung asks customers

NEW DELHI: Just over a week ago, Korean consumer electronics giant Samsung Electronics has announced a global replacement program for the Galaxy Note7 as a precautionary measure due to a battery cell issue.

Because of  battery cell issue, the company has recalled all Galaxy Note 7 smartphones equipped with batteries and halted their sales in 10 markets.

"Since then, we have been working hard to expedite product shipments in order to fulfill that exchange program and reduce any inconvenience for our customers. During the past week, we understand that there are concerns from our customers and we wish to emphasize the importance of exchanging the product," the company said in a statement.

“Our number one priority is the safety of our customers. We are asking users to power down their Galaxy Note7s and exchange them as soon as possible,” says DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics.

“We are expediting replacement devices so that they can be provided through the exchange program as conveniently as possible and in compliance with related regulations. We sincerely thank our customers for their understanding and patience," added Koh.

"Although there have been only a small number of reported incidents, Samsung is taking great care to provide customers with necessary support. Samsung has identified the affected inventory and stopped sales and shipments of those devices. We are also collaborating with national regulatory bodies," the statement said.

"Customers who have Galaxy Note7 devices can replace their current device with a new device based on local availability. We encourage Galaxy Note7 customers to contact their place of purchase or call the designated call center locally as soon as possible," it added.

The company had launched its latest premium device for Rs 59,900 in India on August 11.

Samsung had sold 2.5 million of the premium devices so far. The company plans to replace not only phones with faulty batteries sold to consumers, but also retailer inventories and units in transit. Nomura estimated that more than 1 million units have been sold to end consumers,” according to a report.