[South Africa] Samsung Galaxy Note 7 to launch in November

Despite the number of reported incidents around the world related to battery cell issues in the new Galaxy Note7, Samsung SA has reported that South African customers will receive a Galaxy Note7 that offers full battery usage.

Globally, in markets which the device was available, Samsung immediately stopped the sale of these handsets and announced that customers who already have Galaxy Note7s, a voluntarily replacement of their current device with a new will be issued.

Availability of the Galaxy Note7 in South Africa

“Samsung cares for its loyal and supportive customers first and foremost. Our customers are very important to us and their safety is a key concern for Samsung. There is, after all, more to our relationship with consumers than simply sales and financial gain,” said Craige Fleischer, Director of Integrated Mobility at Samsung Electronics South Africa.

“As the Galaxy Note7 had not been officially launched in the South African market at the time the battery cell challenges were identified, Samsung took the decision not to release the handset into the South African market until these challenges are overcome. As such, the Galaxy Note 7 will be available in South Africa in November,” added Fleischer.

Software limiting battery charge

On Wednesday 14 September, Samsung announced it would be releasing a software update to help reduce the risk of incidents relating to the battery cell issues by limiting the maximum battery charge to 60%. Adoption of the software update could vary by each market depending on market situation and local requirements.

“As the Galaxy Note7 has not yet officially been launched in South Africa, this will not be applicable to the South African market. South African customers will receive Galaxy Note7’s that offers full battery usage,” said Fleischer.

Worth the wait

Fleischer believes that while the delay in the launch of the Galaxy Note7 in South Africa is disappointing, it will be worth the wait for consumers. “We would like to thank all our loyal customers and those who pre-ordered the Note7 for their continued support and trust in the Samsung brand,” Fleisher adds.

“The Galaxy Note7 will take the smart phone to the next level in terms of design, power and performance, providing users with a seamless transition between work and play. Moreover, the new phone offers additional features, such as water resistance and upgraded security features, including the latest iris scanning technology, the first of its kind to be available in South Africa.”

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