What carriers are doing about the exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 (and what you should do!)

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How is your carrier handling the whole exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 situation? Get all the answers you’re looking for below.

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If you yourself don’t own a Samsung Galaxy Note 7, you may not be aware that they are catching on fire under some circumstances. It’s true though.

In fact, not only are the devices randomly exploding, but the problem has become so pervasive that it could end up costing Samsung a billion dollars or more. Needless to say, it’s a real problem in need of a solution.

Of course, if you do own a new Note 7, you are probably quite alarmed and wondering what to do next. We don’t blame you as the idea that your cell phone could suddenly catch fire and burn your car to the ground is terrifying.

Thankfully, you do have options as a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 owner. Wireless carriers, along with Samsung, are taking steps to help resolve the issue. You can too. Here’s what you need to know about the Galaxy Note 7 recall.

What is T-Mobile doing?

Wireless provider T-Mobile urges its customers to power down their devices and turn it in for either a replacement Note 7, an alternative, or a full cash refund. Customers who are interested in replacing their existing Note 7 with a new Note 7 can do so immediately; the company started offering replacement Note 7 devices on Wednesday, September 21^st, 2016.

For Note 7 customers, there will be no restocking, shipping, or upgrade fees of any kind, and they are honoring any promotions you have already redeemed. If customers wish to turn in Note 7 accessories along with their phones, these will be refunded as well.

What is AT&T doing?

Wireless carrier AT&T is also recalling all Note 7 devices sold prior to September 15, 2016. As with T-Mobile, Sprint, and Verizon, this decision is made in conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). All new Note 7 devices feature an upgraded battery pack, and have been approved by the CPSC for sale to the general public.

New Note 7 smartphones are available to AT&T customers who have either a recalled device or a temporary replacement device for exchange. AT&T will also provide refunds for Note 7 accessories (that are returned).

What is Verizon doing?

As with other wireless carriers, Verizon is recalling all Note 7 devices sold prior to September 15^th of this year. When returning the device, Verizon is asking owners to bring the device itself, as well as the charger, any applicable accessories, packaging, and receipts in order to process the return. Devices can be returned to Verizon regardless of condition.

What about Samsung?

Samsung itself has recalled all Galaxy Note 7 and urging owners to return their devices sold prior to September 15^th, and updated the device with a new battery pack approved by the CPSC. Samsung will replace recalled models with the new model at no cost, or with a Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. Should users opt to replace the Note 7 with a Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge, Samsung will refund the difference in cost between the two models.

Samsung is also offering a $25 gift card or bill credit for the inconvenience, and encourages customers to return the phone to the retailer where it was originally purchased.

What should you do?

If you own a Samsung Galaxy Note 7 and you purchased it prior to September 15^th, power down the device immediately and bring it back to the retailer where it was originally purchased. You are eligible for an exchange (for a like device or new replacement) at no cost or a full refund, as well as a bill credit or $25 gift card. If this describes you, simply shut down your phone and return it at your earliest convenience.

Get your new phone today

Even if you haven’t experienced any issues with your Samsung Galaxy Note 7, you are strongly encouraged to exchange it for a new replacement or a like alternative. Not only has the CPSC issued a recall for older versions of the device, but the FAA has strongly advised that they not be used in flight. With an all-new battery, the new device is approved for sale and public use, and has been deemed safe and risk-free. Upgrade your phone today!