Samsung President: We’re sorry

Even people who don’t follow the mobile industry – or the tech world in general – are well aware of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 recall. Nearly one hundred of these devices have exploded in the US alone. With millions of these devices already out in the market, and with the majority of Note 7 owners refusing to power down their devices, the possibility for future harm or property damage is enormous.

Today Tim Baxter, the President and COO of Samsung Electronics America, personally addressed the nation and Note 7 owners. His message: we apologize, and please turn off your Note 7.

“Here are the facts,” Baxter says, beseeching the camera with a look of dismay. “The CPSC has worked closely with us to develop, expedite, and execute a plan to protect American users. We notified them of a potential defect in the original Note 7 batteries, then issued a global directive to stop sales immediately. To date, we already have exchanged 130,000 units. A fast and meaningful start.”

Over one million Note 7 devices are currently active in the US.

“We will continue implementing corrective steps to exchange every single Note 7 on the market,” Baxter continued. He also reiterated that the exchange process is an adequate solution to the ongoing problem. “To be clear, the Note 7 with the new battery is safe… This finding has been affirmed by a recognized, independent, lithium battery expert.”

Baxter then turned to the remaining Note 7 owners, the vast majority of which are still using their devices regularly in spite of the explosions.

“To our Note 7 owners: if you have not yet replaced your original Note 7, please, please, power it down and return it.”

For those who are relying on their Note 7 as their primary means of connection to the world, Baxter says you won’t have to wait long. “New Note 7 phones will be available for exchange no later than next Wednesday.”

What do you think of Samsung’s response to the Note 7 debacle? Let us know in the comments below!