Samsung announced on Friday that it would release software update for its troubled Galaxy Note 7 in mid-December that would render them useless. The planned software update will prevent the devices from charging and functioning as mobile phones.
The Korea-based firm added that of all the devices that had been sold, 93 percent have been returned in a bid to comply with the exchange program.
The Galaxy Note 7 had barely taken root when it started to encounter troubles. Users from all over the world started to report explosion as the device was still charging. One user sued the Samsung for having placed his life in danger.
In order to ensure the safety of travelers, various transport companies banned the usage of the devices on their vehicles. The U.S. Transportation Department and other agencies released an order in October warning the Galaxy Note 7 users not to carry the smartphones or store them in luggage while on flights. The agencies explained that passengers faced the risk of having the planes catch fire.
This is a decision that Samsung says it made so as to ensure more users hand in their devices for the exchange program.
“To further increase participation, a software update will be released starting on December 19th and will be distributed within 30 days. This software update will prevent U.S. Galaxy Note7 devices from charging and will eliminate their ability to work as mobile devices. Together with our carrier partners, we will be notifying consumers through multiple touchpoints to encourage any remaining Galaxy Note7 owners to participate in the program and to take advantage of the financial incentives available.”
The company went on to advice users on what to incase they haven’t returned their smartphones.
“Anyone who has not yet returned their device should immediately power it down and contact their carrier to obtain a refund or exchange, or visit our website at Samsung.com/us/note7recall for more information.”
But not all service providers are ready to take part in the software update. For instance, Verizon Communications Inc has termed the move a risky one, particularly for Galaxy Note 7 users who lack a secondary device.
