Johannesburg - Inspections into the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 are continuing amid reports of exploding batteries, but the device is still available on pre-order in South Africa, a company executive has told Fin24.
“Samsung Electronics has not released the Note 7 in South Africa and is currently promoting pre-order sales via our network partners,” Craige Fleisher, Samsung Electronics South Africa's director for integrated mobility, told Fin24.
Last week the global electronics giant halted global sales of the device amid 35 cases of product faults.
READ: Samsung halts Note 7 sales as more batteries explode
The company also said that they would replace all Galaxy Note 7 devices for any customers who already have the handsets.
However, the announcement may not have any effect on South African customers as the device is currently available for pre-order only and scheduled for release on September 23.
“We are aware of the issues raised within the media and in this regard Samsung Electronics Head Quarters is conducting a thorough inspection with regards to the concerns,” he told Fin24.
“We will share the findings as soon as possible. Samsung is fully committed to providing the highest quality products to our consumers,” he added.
READ: Samsung Note 7 SA release date pushed back
Initial reports suggested that charging the device without the original charger led to the damages.
The highly anticipated 'phablet' smartphone was launched in South Africa in early-August, boasting a major upgrade and newer features when compared to its predecessor.
The Note 7 features a 5.7 inch display, a new iris scanner, a more powerful processor and a bigger battery than previous models.
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