Samsung advises: Switch off Galaxy Note 7

Users should turn off their Note 7. They should exchange the device as soon as possible, the leading South Korean technology company announced on its websites. Buyers are advised to use their previous smartphones - "if any." Customer safety is a top priority, said Koh Dong Jin, head of the company's mobile communications division. In the U.S., the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) had previously advised users of a Galaxy Note 7 to turn off the smartphone. The CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) also said on Saturday night that it was working with Samsung on an official recall via the authority. In addition, it is being examined whether the exchange for a device of the same model is in principle a sufficient measure. Samsung had previously initiated an exchange campaign, which can last for several months.

Warning against use in aircraft

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had warned against using the device on planes. Passengers are strongly advised not to turn on or charge the phone, as well as check it in their luggage, the agency said in an unusually strict tone. Authorities in South Korea also issued a recommendation that devices remain turned off during a flight. Samsung had launched the voluntary recall for its new flagship model just over a week ago. The company acknowledged that the phone could overheat when charging the battery. Samsung confirmed 35 cases of damage at the time. The "phablet," a hybrid of a smartphone and tablet computer, has been shipping in several countries for two weeks. It is said to be about 2.5 million devices that need to be exchanged. (SDA)