Samsung Confirms Batteries Caused Note 7 Fiasco

Korean electronics major, Samsung has for the first time, confirmed that it was indeed a major battery issue that caused Note 7 fires - one of the biggest disasters in global smartphone history.

Following several months of in-depth investigations, Samsung Electronics today 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 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

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

Enhanced Quality Assurance Measures to Improve Product Safety

Following the Note7 incidents, Samsung has developed strict quality assurance protocols across its entire development process in an effort to renew its commitment to safety. The new and enhanced safety measures are as follows:

•Samsung’s enhanced 8-Point Battery Safety Check addresses safety from the component level to the assembly and shipment of devices. Included in the check are enhanced tests (Durability Test, Visual Inspection, X-Ray Test, Disassembling Test and △OCT Test), as well as newly applied measures (Charge and Discharge Test, TVOC Test and Accelerated Usage Test).
•Samsung’s enhanced multi-layer safety measures protocol will implement strict safety standards on every element of the company’s devices including the overall design and materials used, device hardware strength and capabilities, and improved software algorithms for safer battery charging temperature, current and duration.
•Samsung formed a battery advisory group of external advisers made up of academic and research experts to ensure the company maintains a clear and objective perspective on battery safety and innovation. 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; and Toru Amazutsumi, Ph.D., CEO, Amaz Techno-consultant.

Samsung hopes that this case will serve as an opportunity to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries not only for the company but for the entire industry, and will actively share the lessons learned to contribute toward improved safety standards.