The End of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7: Device Explosions Trigger Full Recalls
December 13th, 2016 by admin
In a rare move, Samsung fully recalled and discontinued production on its previously well-reviewed Galaxy Note 7 model following several verified cases of the devices catching fire. This unexpected turn of events has left a vacuum in the large smartphone and phablet product space. Businesses often rely on these devices to increase productivity on the go, as they are much easier to haul around than a full-sized tablet or laptop.
What’s going on with Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7?
Samsung issued two recalls on the Galaxy Note 7, the second of which included phones that were sent out to replace the faulty ones in the first recall.
Essentially, the problem with the Galaxy Note 7 over other faulty device recalls is that Samsung is unable to figure out exactly why these devices are exploding. Samsung initially thought it was a problem with defective batteries from a supplier, but the fires continued with the new models.
This issue is confined to the Galaxy Note 7: Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge. Older Samsung smartphones are not affected. However, Samsung has made the news over defective product problems in the past, including washing machines and microwaves.
Consumer Confidence and Recall Fallout
Because of the safety problems with the devices and tarnished branding, Samsung has discontinued the Galaxy Note 7 product line. The FAA banned Galaxy Note 7 devices from airplanes, even when powered down. According to CNET, 40 percent of people surveyed claim they will not purchase another Samsung phone after this debacle. And while the publication notes that this survey may represent a higher share than reality, there's no question that the brand has been damaged by bad PR.
The same survey reports that around 30 percent of people will switch to iPhones, while the other 70 percent will switch to a different Android manufacturer. While Samsung’s reputation will certainly take a hit from the Note 7 recall, and Android’s market share will dip slightly, claiming it’s “doomsday for Android” is an exaggeration based on market data.
About Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Lithium-Ion batteries, which are found in just about every device with a rechargeable power source, are prone to catching fire in overheating, overcharging, and physical damage situations. Issues including swollen and punctured batteries can happen to any phone or device using these batteries. Such problems are, of course, a major safety issue, as the devices can burn people and/or start larger fires.
Galaxy Note 7 Alternatives
Even if your employees love their Galaxy Note 7 devices, they’re not safe to use and should be replaced. Several other viable large-form smartphones on the market can replace most, if not all, of the Note 7’s functionality. Android Community recommends the following devices:
- Samsung Galaxy Note 5 (there was no Galaxy Note 6 model)
- Samsung Galaxy 7 Edge
- LG V20
- Google Pixel XL
- Xiaomi Mi 5
- OnePlus 3
- Huawei P9 Plus
- ZTE Axon 7
Alternatively, your employees could look at switching to an iPhone 7 Plus or larger Windows Phone device.
For help improving your business IT productivity and guidance in finding the right technology solutions for your company’s specific needs, contact the experts at ATS today.
Posted in: Knowledge