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In November 2025 a two-month-old Samsung Galaxy S25+ erupted in flames while plugged in, leaving a family with smoke inhalation and property damage. After a two-month probe, Samsung has acknowledged responsibility — but many say the company's response falls short.
A sudden thermal runaway during routine charging
The owner reports the S25+ was charging overnight with an official Samsung charger and cable when the device experienced a thermal runaway — an uncontrolled battery failure in a lithium-ion cell that rapidly generates heat and can lead to flames. Firefighters who examined the charred handset concluded the same, and authorities documented visible burn damage to the carpet and nearby surfaces.
Family members inhaled smoke from the incident and sought medical attention for respiratory symptoms. Those details, combined with the damaged remains of the phone, formed the basis of Samsung’s follow-up investigation and its decision to accept liability.
What Samsung is offering — and why people are unsatisfied
According to reports, Samsung’s Fire and Marine Insurance unit has proposed covering the replacement cost of the damaged Galaxy S25+, paying cleanup and restoration fees, and reimbursing related medical bills. The company also offered a $500 payment per person for pain and suffering.
Still, online reaction has been largely critical. Many tech users argue that monetary offers don’t address the trauma of an exploding phone or potential long-term health consequences from inhaling toxic battery fumes. Critics also say the compensation terms are limited and don’t reflect the seriousness of a device catching fire inside a home.
Does this point to a wider S25 battery problem?
The incident has drawn attention to other user reports of Galaxy S25 models overheating or catching fire. Samsung has historically emphasized rigorous battery testing and safety protocols for its flagship phones, and so far the company hasn’t released a broad public statement declaring a systemic defect across the S25 lineup.
For now, Samsung’s engagement appears focused on this specific customer case rather than a formal recall or software fix. That leaves unanswered questions for owners: Was this an isolated manufacturing fault, a bad cell in an otherwise safe batch, or something else entirely?
What owners should do next
- If you own an S25-series phone and notice unusual heat, swelling, or strange odors while charging, stop using the device immediately and contact Samsung support.
- Use official chargers and cables and avoid overnight charging in enclosed or flammable areas.
- Keep documentation and photos if you experience an incident — records help investigations and any potential claims.
As this story develops, the key questions remain: will Samsung widen its investigation, offer clearer guidance to S25 owners, or initiate any broader action? For now, affected consumers and the wider tech community will be watching closely for follow-up from the company and any further reports of battery failures.
Source: gizmochina
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