Samsung will ban the Note 7 from connecting to mobile networks in New Zealand

Despite a global recall, airline ban, and numerous financial incentives to get a new phone, some stubborn souls are still using their Galaxy Note 7s. The next step? Stop them connecting to mobile networks.

Samsung announced yesterday that as of November 18th, anyone using a Note 7 in New Zealand will be disconnected from all mobile carriers. They won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or access mobile data, be that 3G or 4G.

Wi-Fi access will be be unaffected by the move, but it should get the attention of those dragging their heels on returning the phone. According to New Zealand site Stuff.co.nz, the country’s Telecommunications Forum chief executive Geoff Thorn said most of the devices had already been exchanged, but a few hundred were still out there.

Will Samsung extend this scheme to other countries?

"Numerous attempts by all providers have been made to contact owners and ask them to bring the phones in for replacement or refund. This action should further aid the return of the remaining handsets," said Thorn. "Anyone who is still in possession of a Samsung Note 7, please return it to your service provider as soon as possible."

The question is, will Samsung work with mobile carriers in other carriers to introduce similar bans? We’ve reached out to the company to find out, and will update this story when we know more.