Next Steps if You Own a Galaxy Note 7

You may have heard that the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was recently recalled. If you own one of these devices yourself, you likely have questions and concerns regarding the Galaxy Note 7 recall issued in conjunction by Samsung and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). That's understandable; with multiple reported fires and explosions of the Note 7, it's an issue that demands attention.

Below we've addressed some of the very questions you might have so that you can decide how best to proceed. Should you own a recalled device, you can choose either to exchange or replace your defective Note 7 smartphone. This is what you need to know:

Why is the Phone Being Recalled?

The affected devices are Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones sold prior to September 15, 2016. Other Samsung Galaxy phones, like the S7 and S7 Edge, are not part of the recall. The phones in question are being recalled because they can overheat and catch on fire or explode as a result of a manufacturing defect. This defect affects the barrier between the batteries, allowing the negative and positive poles of the phone's batteries to come into contact with each other.

What are My Options for Exchanging the Device?

If you purchased your Note 7 prior to September 15 of this year, you can either exchange it for the same device (or one similar to it) or return it for a full refund. Many companies, including carriers like T-Mobile and retailers like Best Buy, have exchange and refund programs for affected Note 7 recall customers to make the process as smooth and easy as possible. Contact your carrier or return to the retailer where the device was originally purchased, and they will help you exchange your Note 7. If you have your original purchase receipt, you are encouraged to bring it with you.

If returning your device for a full refund, you can also return any Note 7 accessories that you purchased along with the phone. You will receive a full refund on these items as well. If you decide to exchange your recalled Note 7 for a similar product, like the Samsung Galaxy S7, for example, you will be refunded the difference in price between the two devices. Exchanges started on September 21 of this year, so as of this writing, you can exchange your old Note 7 device at any time. In addition to the exchange options already listed, Samsung is also providing all Note 7 customers with a $25 gift card or bill credit for the inconvenience.

What If I Still Want My Galaxy Note 7 Phone?

A new version of the Galaxy Note 7 approved by the CPSC is already available. As of September 21, existing Note 7 customers have been able to exchange their affected devices for the new model at no cost. If you own a Galaxy Note 7 and would like to keep it, you can exchange it for an identical model. It's worth noting, however, that the retailer or carrier that you exchange your phone with will not be able to perform any data or file transfers, due to CPSC guidelines. But yes, if you like your Note 7, you can continue to use a Note 7 – just make sure to replace your old device!

Am I Able to bring it on an Airplane?

The FAA encourages extreme caution when bringing an affected Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on an airplane. If traveling with a recalled Note 7 device, you should not stow or pack it in your checked luggage, nor use it or charge it onboard the aircraft. If you travel frequently or have a tripped planned in the near future, and still own an affected Galaxy Note 7, you should exchange or return it as soon as possible with one that has been approved by the CPSC. It will make your life that much easier.

Exchange or Return Your Galaxy Note 7 Today

There's no need to wait, after all! You can return your Galaxy Note 7 for a full refund or exchange it for an all-new replacement today. Retailers and wireless carriers throughout the country are now offering replacement Note 7 devices. Visit your local store and swap out your phone not just for a new one, but for peace of mind as well.

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