Galaxy S24 Explodes in User's Hand, Causing 2 Minor Injuries in South Korea

3 articles · Updated · Android Authority · May 13

A South Korean Reddit user said a Galaxy S24 exploded in their hand while browsing the web, leaving minor burn blisters and requiring treatment for smoke inhalation.
The user said the phone rapidly swelled, emitted smoke and intense heat, then split open at the bottom; fire authorities found signs consistent with lithium-battery ignition.
The device was reportedly not charging, had never been repaired or opened, and had no drop damage, making the cause unclear from the user's account.
Samsung was not yet quoted in the latest report, though the user said they were working with a local service center and seeking direct contact with headquarters.
The report described the case as isolated, noting no evidence of a broader Galaxy S24 problem despite a few scattered fire claims across Samsung models.

With no prior damage reported, what hidden defect could cause a new Galaxy S24 to suddenly explode in a user's hand?

After the Note 7 crisis, is Samsung facing another potential battery scandal with its flagship Galaxy S24 series?

As phone batteries get more powerful, are spontaneous explosions an unavoidable risk we must now accept with our devices?