Verizon Updates: New Samsung Galaxy S7, S7 Edge Firmware Released, Galaxy Note 7 Recall Addressed
Verizon Wireless’ variants of Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are now receiving another firmware update. Moreover, the mobile network carrier has already provided a statement regarding the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 recall announced by the Seoul tech giant today.
The new software available for the Verizon model of the 2016 Samsung flagship devices comes with build number VRU2APG5, and it unlocks its FM Radio capabilities. The official support page of the carrier network noted the following.
“The latest software update unleashes the FM tuning capabilities of your Galaxy S7 Edge. You’ll be able to see, hear, and interact with your favorite local radio stations with apps such as NextRadio, which use less battery and data than most streaming services.”
An Android application, NextRadio “combines local FM radio via your device’s built-in tuner with enhanced content via the Internet to show you album art, station logos, and song and program details in an engaging display,” as described on its official website. The app also allows you to buy a song instantly as you hear and listen to it.
It should be noted though that NextRadio will not be pre-loaded in the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge once the latest firmware update from Verizon is installed. It is available for download via the Google Play Store.
The new update also brings along support for Barcode Beaming service. Built into the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge device, it improves “the recognition rate of digital coupons, event tickets, library cards, loyalty, and membership cards.” Furthermore, the service enables users to easily scan their on-device barcodes as they use Samsung Pay, Beep’nGo, and other supported applications.
Moreover, after successfully installing the latest Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge update from Verizon, customers should be able to experience improvements to HD Voice. The changelog noted that HD Voice call drops should be lessened after the update. There were also improvements done to inhibit the inadvertent turning off and restarting of the device.
The new firmware can be accessed via Over-the-Air or OTA system. An automatic notification should appear on the phone once the update is available for the device. To be able to download the file for the Verizon Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge update, a strong Wi-Fi connection or a stable Verizon Wireless network signal is necessary. The battery should also be fully-charged for the installation procedure to commence.
As for other Verizon news, following Samsung’s announcement of a voluntary recall of Galaxy Note 7 due to the battery fiasco, the network carrier said they have stopped selling the 2016 phablet, as customer safety is their top priority, Fortune reported.
“Additionally, through September 30, 2016, Verizon is waiving the restocking fee for any customers who purchased a Galaxy Note 7 and wish to return or exchange it,” the U.S. carrier network also said.
As a result of the recall, new orders for the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 through Verizon have been pushed back until September 30.
Samsung’s latest phablet has been on sale only for two weeks and has enjoyed an enormous demand worldwide. However, with the global recall, CNET pointed out that it “could threaten the momentum Samsung has enjoyed over the last few months, fueled by the success of the Galaxy S7.”
In its statement today, the tech giant said they will be replacing all the existing Note 7 units over the coming weeks. Accordingly, 35 separate incidents linked to the faulty battery of Galaxy Note 7 have been reported to Samsung.
“We are working closely with our partners to ensure the replacement experience is as convenient and efficient as possible,” the company added.
Aside from Verizon Wireless, other major U.S. carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint have also addressed the Galaxy Note 7 recall, providing information about refunds, replacements, and more.
[Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images]
