Samsung Announces Cause of Galaxy Note7 Incidents

Following several months of in-depth investigations, Samsung has announced the cause of the Note7 incidents and measures to prevent a recurrence during a press conference held in Seoul, Korea.

DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics, shared detailed results of the investigation and expressed his sincere apology and gratitude to Galaxy Note7 customers, mobile operators, retail and distribution partners and business partners for their patience and continued support.

Koh was joined by executives from UL, Exponent and TUV Rheinland, leading independent industry groups that conducted their own investigation into various aspects of the Galaxy Note7 incidents.

Speakers included:

  • Sajeev Jesudas, President, Consumer Business Unit, UL
  • Kevin White, Ph.D, Principal Scientist, Exponent
  • Holger Kunz, Executive Vice President Products, TUV Rheinland AG

Speakers discussed the findings of the investigations in depth and unveiled new measures Samsung has taken to respond to the incidents.

Based on what the company learned from the investigation, Samsung implemented a broad range of internal quality and safety processes to further enhance product safety including additional protocols such as the multi-layer safety measures and 8-Point Battery Safety Check. Samsung also formed a Battery Advisory Group of external advisers, academic and research experts to ensure it maintains a clear and objective perspective on battery safety and innovation.

Battery Advisory Group members include:

  • Clare Grey, Ph.D., Professor of Chemistry, University of Cambridge
  • Gerbrand Ceder, Ph.D., Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, UC Berkeley
  • Yi Cui, Ph.D., Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University
  • Toru Amazutsumi, Ph.D., CEO, Amaz Techno-consultant

Koh said,

“For the last several months, together with independent industry expert organisations, we conducted thorough investigation to find cause to the Galaxy Note7 incidents.”

“Today, more than ever, we are committed to earning the trust of our customers through innovation that redefines what is possible in safety, and as a gateway to unlimited possibilities and incredible new experiences.”

What Samsung Discovered

To find the cause of the Galaxy Note7 incidents, Samsung examined every aspect of the Galaxy Note7, including hardware, software and related processes over the past several months. Samsung’s investigation, as well as the investigations completed by three independent industry organisations, concluded that the batteries were the cause of the Galaxy Note7 incidents. The causative factors are further explained in the infographic below.