The coronavirus epidemic is burning through the technology industry, leaving a trail of delays and shortages in its wake. So far, the virus has already torched Apple’s China-based manufacturers and the entire MWC 2020 event.

For the immediate future, the global epidemic can add Samsung to its list of victims. Previously, the South Korean company saved itself from the crisis, owing to its geographical roots. Unfortunately, if you turn into world news today, the virus has already made its way to South Korea.

In the city of Gumi, one of Samsung’s factory workers has contracted the disease, forcing the company to shut down the entire plant, according to a South Korean news outlet. The entire factory will open again on February 24. Additionally, the infected employee’s floor will remain shut down until February 25.

As for the workers themselves, Samsung has urged those who worked with the employee to put themselves in quarantine and undergo tests for potential infection. The company has also asked all employees to limit travel when possible, conducting business only through video calls.

Of course, Samsung has a tight hold on the South Korea business sector. The closure of just one factory probably won’t affect the company’s supply too much.

The affected Gumi factory specializes in Galaxy Fold and Galaxy Z Flip production. If anything, the temporary closure will only slow the foldable phone down partially. Regardless, it’s not a good look for Samsung, especially if the virus continues to spread across the country.

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Do you believe in the power of foldable smartphones? Today’s biggest foldable phone makers want you to buy into the new technology — whether it’s the pioneering Galaxy Fold or the refreshed Motorola razr. However, as you might have seen recently, foldable technology is still miles away from perfection. Touted as the next revolution of smartphones, the flexible display still suffers issues in durability.

Despite all that, Samsung is cashing in all its chips on the imperfect technology. Announced today, the South Korean tech giant is selling its new technology — dubbed as Ultra-Thin Glass (or UTG) — to competitors. The patented technology is up for grabs to anyone willing to pay Samsung for it.

The company is selling the display under the tagline “Tough, yet Tender.” The branding alludes to the 30μm panel that supposedly goes beyond the capabilities of last year’s model — at least, according to Samsung.

Currently, the UTG is still exclusive to the Galaxy Z Flip — which is getting some flak of its own. It will likely make its way to other Samsung devices in the future as well.

Unfortunately, Samsung has not confirmed any willing customers at the moment. However, the company is also enjoying a modicum of market leadership, owing to its early adoption (and development) of the technology. With the sale announcement, they can capitalize on other companies’ desires to build their own foldable phone.

Regardless, foldable technology is still an imperfect art. Though the Galaxy Z Flip allegedly sold out already, the device’s reception is up in the air. Who knows where foldable technology will fare in the future?

SEE ALSO: Samsung’s customer service offerings you might not know about

One thing you must always consider when buying an electronic device is the scope of warranty and support reliability. Most manufacturers fail in either one, but poor support reliability is a more common issue. Having reliable manufacturer support for your device is critical especially that devices inevitably break down in time.

Samsung recognizes the merits of having reliable support for its devices. As such, it launched three support mechanism where its consumers can choose from when their devices need troubleshooting.

Remote Service

Samsung consumers who bought handheld devices, TVs, and digital appliances can avail of remote support services for help and troubleshooting. By accessing the support app on their devices, consumers can place a secure call to the customer service team. A dedicated team of engineers can then remotely view and control specific device settings, and provide product assistance.

Live Chat

Consumers can also access the live chat feature available on Samsung’s website. This feature is also available through the Samsung Members’ app, which can be downloaded on the Google Play Store. Having a live chat enables consumers to ask the customer service anytime, anywhere. This is handy especially when a Samsung appliance breaks down, and there are no nearby technicians or service centers available.

After-sales services

Apart from offering convenient remote service and a 24/7 live chat, Samsung also offers a variety of after-sales services for the consumer’s peace of mind. These various services make cumbersome troubleshooting a thing of the past and give consumers a sense of security when buying a Samsung device or appliance.

• Nationwide service network — Samsung has over 150 authorized service branches where they can bring small appliances (40 inches and below) for troubleshooting with dedicated technicians.
• In-home service — Consumers with bigger appliances can schedule a home visit from dedicated technicians.
• Support hotline — Those opting to call Samsung’s hotline may do so by dialing #GALAXY or #425299 for mobile devices. For appliances, they can call the toll-free hotline 1-800-10-7267864 (PLDT) or 1-800-8-7267864 (Globe).
• Online manuals — Samsung also has online tutorials and FAQs for its devices. They are readily available on Samsung’s website or through the Samsung Members’ app.

With a variety of support services available to consumers, Samsung is ensuring its consumers that the company is ready to help them especially when an inevitable breakdown occurs.