Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Explosions Prompt Recall

Imagine bringing home a brand new smartphone, plugging it in to charge, and having it explode or catch on fire. That’s what happened to over 30 buyers of the new Samsung Galaxy Note 7. Now Samsung has halted sales and instituted an unofficial recall worldwide.


The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is the latest “phablet” to hit the market. This large phone (which doubles as a tablet) has all the latest bells and whistles, making it a hot commodity among tech crowds. Maybe too hot.

Issues with the phone’s battery have caused a number of the devices to catch fire while charging. There have even been a number of reports of explosions. All together about 36 consumers have been affected so far. In response to the reports, the Korean phone company has put a halt on sales and is promising to voluntarily replace any Note 7 devices purchased during the initial launch.

Is an Unofficial Recall Enough?

However, some say that isn’t enough to satisfy U.S. consumer protection laws. Consumer Reports is calling for an official recall through the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), saying anything less fails to provide clear next steps for both the company and consumers.

The CPSC responds to complaints of thousands of defective products every year. They ensure that consumers are protected from unnecessarily high risk of injury or defect. Without their oversight, it is possible that defective smartphones could slip through the recall process.

What to Do if You Own a Samsung Galaxy Note 7

Even without a formal recall, Samsung has provided a way for Note owners to get replacements for possibly defective products. The company will voluntarily replace every device. The LA Times reports that smartphone users will be allowed to swap their current Galaxy Note 7 for a new one once the new batteries become available.

If you want to make sure you are protected now, you may also swap your device for another Samsung phone – the Galaxy S7 or S7 edge – and Samsung will refund the difference in price. These phones have not had problems with their batteries. All 4 major cell phone carriers – AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile – have waived restocking and shipping fees for these exchanges. Anyone taking advantage of the voluntary recall will also receive a $25 gift card or bill credit for their trouble.

If you or someone you know jumped on the new Samsung Galaxy Note 7, you should take advantage of the recall. Fire and explosion risks are not to be downplayed. Ignoring a potentially defective battery could cost you a lot more than a new cell phone.

Dani K. Liblang is a consumer protection attorney at The Liblang Law Firm, PC, in Birmingham, Michigan. She helps consumers recover for injuries from defective products. If you have been injured by a defective cell phone, contact The Liblang Law Firm today for a free consultation.