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Samsung has reportedly stopped production of its Galaxy Note 7 handset amidst reports that replacement phones are exploding, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap.
This move comes after Samsung was forced to issue a global recall of the smartphone, but several more replacement handsets have exploded due to faulty batteries.
AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have now stopped selling and supplying replacement devices. A Verizon spokesperson told The Verge: “Samsung is working with the Consumer Product Safety Commission to investigate the safety of replacement Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones. While the investigation is underway, Verizon is suspending the exchange of replacement Note 7 smartphones.
“Any Verizon customer concerned about the safety of their replacement Note 7 smartphone may take it back to the original point of purchase to exchange it for another smartphone. Verizon online customers may also exchange their replacement Note 7 smartphones at Verizon stores.”
Likewise,T-Mobile issued a statement saying: “While Samsung investigates multiple reports of issues, T-Mobile is temporarily suspending all sales of the new Note 7 and exchanges for replacement Note 7 devices.
“Customers can still bring their recalled Note 7 or the new replacement Note 7, along with accessories they purchased from T-Mobile, to a T-Mobile store for a full refund, and choose from any device in T-Mobile’s inventory. We’ll waive any restocking charges, and customers who purchased during pre-order can keep the free Netflix subscription and Gear Fit or SD card they received.”
No UK retailers have commented on the latest step of the controversy yet, but it surely won’t be long before major brands like Currys PC World and John Lewis make a statement on the issue.
Samsung has not released an official statement addressing the new controversy, but a spokesperson told the BBC that the company is “adjusting the production schedule to ensure quality and safety matters".
