Earlier this week I awarded the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 a nearly perfect rating. The Note 7 has been selling well since its release a couple weeks ago, with an estimated one million units sold in the ten countries it was launched in.
A few days later, the reports of exploding batteries prompted a Samsung internal investigation with an unprecedented recall of all Note 7 devices across the globe. While the timely couldn't be worse for Samsung with the upcoming iPhone 7 announcement, it's encouraging to see Samsung step up to the plate and address the issue in the best way possible for consumer protection.
If you are like me and have a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 that you purchased, here are a few likely questions and some answers:
How do I exchange it with Samsung?: The details on making an exchange with Samsung have not been fully worked out yet. Many people wonder what phone they will use during the exchange period. See the next question for US carrier guidance.
Can I return it to my wireless carrier?: Yes. If you don't want to wait for the directions on how to exchange your phone with Samsung, the four major US wireless carriers were quick to provide some guidance. T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, and Verizon will each allow you to return the device and accessories for a full refund with no restocking fee or shipping charges. Sprint is willing to offer you a similar device to use until the Note 7 issue has been resolved.
What about my free T-Mobile Netflix subscription?: T-Mobile stated that customers can keep the free Netflix promotional offer they received with the pre-order purchase.
What do I do with the free Gear Fit 2 or 256GB microSD card I received from Samsung?: Since this came from Samsung, do not return it to your carrier store. T-Mobile directed me to hold onto it and at this time we haven't been provided information on this offer from Samsung.