Samsung has just announced a Product Exchange Programme for Galaxy Note 7 owners in the US, where the device went on sale on 19 August along with a few select markets across the globe. The programme was launched immediately after Samsung halted global sales of its new Note as reports emerged about the device exploding while charging.

According to the US Product Exchange Programme, Samsung will exchange the current Note 7 unit with a new one, which would be available next week. Alternatively, consumers can exchange the Note 7 for either Galaxy S7 or S7 Edge. The company will make a refund if you want to replace any Note 7 accessories.

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Samsung is also offering consumers a $25 (£19) gift card from select carrier retail outlets when buying Galaxy S7/S7 Edge or the Note 7, which is within the exchange programme. To initiate a product exchange, consumers can directly contact or visit the retail outlet from where they had purchased their device.

The announcement about the product exchange has been made by Tim Baxter, president of Samsung Electronics America, who in a statement said: "Samsung is taking a proactive approach to address customer needs around the Note 7. We are encouraging customers to exchange their Note 7 by taking advantage of our Product Exchange Program. The safety and satisfaction of our customers is Samsung's top priority."

After reports about device explosion, Samsung conducted a thorough investigation and found there was an issue with the battery cell. There have been 35 cases of explosions reported globally. The company is working with its suppliers to identify the devices using affected batteries.

Galaxy Note 7 Product Exchange Program
To initiate a product exchange, consumers can directly contact or visit the retail outlet from where they had purchased their device Reuters
Samsung