MANILA, Philippines-Following the global recall of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 due to fire-prone issues, the Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific are prohibiting the use of the unit in all its flights.
On Sunday, September 11, Cebu Pacific announced that it will be banning the usage and charging of the device onboard. It also reminded passengers not to stow the unit in checked in baggage but allowed it to be hand carried as long as the device is switched off at all times inside the aircraft.
PHOTO CREDIT: YouTube/JerryRigEverything
Similar to Cebu Pacific, PAL also allowed Note 7 units to be hand-carried as long as it is turned off at all times. The country’s flag carrier also barred its check in.
Last week, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd issued a recall for its latest flagship mobile device following reports of the phones’ faulty batteries. Based on reports, there were several cases of “explosions” or units catching fire during normal use or charging.
The world’s largest smartphone vendor urged Galaxy Note 7 users to turn in their devices as soon as possible in order to be replaced. Furthermore, it has stopped selling the units in the Philippines.
“We acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause in the market but this is to ensure that Samsung continues to deliver the highest quality products to our customers. We are working closely with our partners to ensure the replacement experience is as convenient and efficient as possible,” Samsung said in a statement.
Samsung has sold over 2.5 million of the devices so far.
Aside from PAL and Cebu Pacific, three Australian airlines have prohibited the use or charging of the said unit during flights.
What should you do if you own a Samsung Galaxy Note 7?
- Turn off your phone immediately.
- Contact local call centres or visit the retail location where the phone was purchased.
- You have the option to replace your phone with the Galaxy S7, the Galaxy S7 Edge or a different device and get reimbursement for the difference.
- If you wish to wait for a new model, you will receive a Samsung J Series loaner phone until the new model is launched.
- Samsung will be issuing a $25 gift card, in-store credit or bill credit to users as refund for Note 7 accessories.