Samsung Begs Consumers To Return ‘Galaxy Note 7,’ Gives iPhone A Huge Opportunity

Samsung’s battery troubles could not have come at a worse time. With Apple having just released the “iPhone 7,” the South Korean company essentially gave its American counterpart the opportunity to catch up to sales numbers in a big way. The troubles for the largest smartphone maker in the world is just starting as well, as its reputation is getting shredded in the public eye, what with airlines discouraging passengers from using their “Galaxy Note 7” phablets.

According to a poll conducted by tech publisher CNET, 50 percent of the participants would switch to the “iPhone 7” due to the battery problems that Samsung is having with its “Note 7.” 40 percent said that they would stay, but losing more than half of its customers would be a significant blow to the South Korean company.

Granted, this is just one poll, but it is telling with regards to how people feel about the device now. This is why Samsung is so anxious for customers to return their handsets already, especially in the wake of reports about the gadget causing fires that have already consumed one Jeep Grand Cherokee and a garage.

Another report also involves a “Note 7” exploding in a 6-year-old’s hand, causing burns. For customers who are still thinking that statistics are on their side, it’s simply not worth it to risk damages, as Droid-Life notes.

Among the organizations that are just not taking chances anymore are U.S. airlines, some of which are instructing passengers who are carrying the device not to use it in the plane, Apple Insider reports. They may also not charge it or even turn it on as long as they are onboard. This is the kind of PR nightmare that is likely going to hurt Samsung’s reputation and stock prices, which are already plummeting steeply.