Oculus drops support for Samsung Galaxy Note7 to keep users safe

It is tough being a Galaxy Note7 user. First, Samsung tells customers to exchange their units for a safe one, following reports of exploding batteries. Next, the "new" Galaxy Note7 devices start catching fire too, after it was revealed that their batteries have issues as well. And, now, Samsung decides to stop production altogether, discontinuing its latest Android flagship across the globe.

What's more, because the Galaxy Note7 is clearly not safe to use, Oculus has dropped support for the Android flagship, introducing a forced update for the app that enables the Gear VR headset to work with the device.

This is the sensible thing to do. By stopping Galaxy Note7 users from using the device with the GearVR attached to their head, Oculus is minimizing the chances of them getting hurt -- or worse. If the device catches fire so close to one's face, it could leave burn marks, and that is not something that users should risk.

"Oculus is removing support for all Note7 devices on the Oculus platform. Until further notice, Note7 devices will not be compatible with the Gear VR. For more information regarding the Note7, please visit Samsung’s information page or contact Samsung directly", reads Oculus' announcement on its Gear VR page.

Gear VR is still listed as compatible with the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 edge, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, so there are still other devices to enjoy the headset with. Well, as long as you can get your seller to exchange your Galaxy Note7 for a different smartphone, which shouldn't normally be a problem.

In case you are considering using your Galaxy Note7 until you can exchange it, you should know that Samsung strongly advises that you power it off to minimize the chance of it catching fire. Get rid of it as soon as possible.