Samsung Now Working With CPSC In Galaxy Note 7 Recall

About a week ago, Samsung decided to recall every unit that has been sold of its latest phablet offering, the Galaxy Note 7, due to reported claims (at least 35 separate cases) of overheating and even exploding battery issues. Some however pointed out that the decision by the South Korean tech giant to voluntarily recall the Galaxy Note 7 may not be enough because apparently, some units are still being displayed in store shelves. In light of this, Consumer Reports has called the attention of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to do something.

Well, the CPSC has responded, issuing an official statement saying that it is now coordinating with Samsung with regards to the recall. Moreover, the federal agency is looking to review thoroughly whether a simple exchange program would suffice in satisfying affected mobile users, specifically those who have already bought a Galaxy Note 7 handset. On Samsung’s part, the South Korean phone maker has released its own separate statement, saying that it is indeed joining forces with the CPSC, and is reassuring everybody that it has halted all sales and shipments of all defective Galaxy Note 7 units.

Still, the fact that the CPSC is already involved with the recall and the exchange program may cause some changes. According to Samsung, new Galaxy Note 7 replacements will be provided to those who purchased defective units only after going through the CPSC. It is not made clear yet if any timelines will be affected, especially with regards to how soon users can get their new Galaxy Note 7 devices. Remember those exploding hoverboards? It took the CPSC half a year to recall those, so this development may be cause for worry for some.

In other related news, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory to all travelers not to charge or turn on any Galaxy Note 7 unit while aboard an airplane. At least it is not as bad here as in Australia, where three airline companies have already issued a proper ban on Galaxy Note 7 units being charged or used aboard flights.

It is safe to say that while Apple is enjoying all the attention because of the recent unveiling of its latest flagship devices (the iPhone 7 and the iPhone 7 Plus), Samsung could really use a vacation. No company ever wants a recall of its products, and for the South Korean mobile manufacturer, it had to happen to one of its most well received smartphones. 

As for  consumers who bought Galaxy Note 7 devices, they have no other choice but to get on with the program (this little guide might help).