The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has just issued an official recall of over one million Galaxy Note 7 smartphones amid more than 90 reports of handsets spontaneously exploding as a result of a faulty battery.
“I am urging all consumers to take advantage of this recall right away,” CPSC chairman Elliot Kaye said at a dedicated press conference. “Consumers [will be entitled to] either a replacement or a refund.”
The main difference between a government and manufacturer recall is the legal aspect. Prior to the CPSC's involvement, retailers could still sell faulty handsets. Now, however, they have no other choice than to return all unsold stock.
#GalaxyNote7 Safety Recall: Exchange at your carrier for a new Note7, Galaxy S7, S7 edge or to get a refund. https://t.co/u1kASMlLuZ
— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) September 15, 2016
If you own a Galaxy Note 7, you can determine if it's subject to the recall by looking at the code etched on the bottom of the back of the handset, then plugging the number into the box on this page of Samsung's website.
This announcement follows the CSPC's strong warning that consumers should stop using the device immediately because of the increasing high risk of a fire occurring. In the last month, 26 people have suffered from blistering and burns.
So there you have it, folks. You can finally exchange your Galaxy Note 7 for a replacement model or return it for a full refund.
