Warning Issued to Travellers over Exploding Smartphones

A warning has been issued to travellers with Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Smartphones, after Samsung have recalled the phones due to reports of explosions.

The new device, which was revealed on August 2nd, just ahead of the new iPhone 7, has received reports of the smartphone exploding, and catching fire, when the device is charging, or being used in general.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) “strongly advised” passengers travelling, to not have their device on, or charge it, throughout the duration of the flight.

Although customers are still allowed to take their devices on board flights, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas, have banned the use of the phones on their flights.

The FAA, said: “In light of recent incidents and concerns raised by Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices, the Federal Aviation Administration strongly advises passengers not to turn on or charge these devices on board aircraft and not to stow them in any checked baggage.”

The maker of the device, Korean brand Samsung, have globally recalled the smartphone, following the reports, and health and safety risks. Replacement phones have been issued to customers, however some have come forward with overheating issues with their replacements.

Dave Lee, BBC’s North American Technology Reporter said: “This is precautionary advice and not understood to be in reaction to any incident on a plane.

“But it does continue the headache for Samsung - even once the company goes through the motions of getting the device recalled, the Note 7 will forever be the exploding smartphone.”