Samsung has launched its new Galaxy Sanitizing Service as COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues its global spread. The service is being offered free of charge in select Samsung Experience Stores and Samsung Service Centers.
Companies across the globe, including Samsung, are changing the way they conduct daily operations and are more mindful of hygiene to protect both workers and customers. The aim of Samsung's Galaxy Service is to help prevent the spread of viruses, germs, and bacteria by disinfecting phones and other Galaxy gadgets.
Samsung won't be using harsh and damaging chemicals but instead will sanitize your gadget using UV-C light. Apart from Galaxy phones, other devices can be disinfected as well, including the Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Watch.
The South Korean tech giant advises customers not to use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean their smartphones as it may damage the gadget. The company assures it has tested UV-C light and won't cause any damage to all Galaxy gadgets.
However, as UV-C devices to be used by Samsung come from third-party firms, the company reminds all customers that the effectiveness of the entire process will depend on the model and market. It's not a guarantee that all viruses will be eliminated either, so it's best to always practice good hygiene, particularly in activities that involve using the hands. Moreover, Samsung cautions all Galaxy users to not use unapproved UV sanitation gadgets to prevent getting the phone damaged.
As of writing, the Galaxy Sanitizing Service is available in 19 countries:
- Argentina
- Chile
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Finland
- Japan
- Malaysia
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Pakistan
- Peru
- Poland
- Russia
- Spain
- South Korea
- Sweden
- United States
- Ukraine
- Vietnam
Samsung promises to expand the service to other markets, including Hong Kong, the Philippines, Canada, Australia, France, Israel, Taiwan, Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and many more.
The World Health Organization says that COVID-19 is a controllable pandemic, but as March 12, the number of confirmed cases globally has reached 125,048 with a death toll of 4,613. Global risk assessment remains high and no vaccine is available just yet.
The first case of COVID-19 was recorded in China in late 2019 and has since spread around the world. Many industries are affected by the pandemic -- factories, stores, and venues have been shut down and countries have since banned outdoor events where large crowds gather.
For more updates about the coronavirus and current data, visit the WHO website.
