Recall for exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 - reports

Yonhap reported an unidentified Samsung official told the news agency the global recall would be announced within the week. Photo / AP

Samsung is expected to announce an "unprecedented" global recall of its newest Galaxy Note 7 smartphones, according to reports from Korean news agency Yonhap.

Yonhap reported an unidentified Samsung official told the news agency the battery in the large-screen smartphones had reportedly caught fire while being charged.

"The most important thing is the safety of our customers and we don't want to disappoint our loyal customers," the official told Yonhap.

An investigation was carried out by Samsung and the result was expected to be announced within a week.

Samsung New Zealand said: "In response to questions on Galaxy Note7, we are conducting a thorough inspection with our partners.

"We will share the findings as soon as possible. Samsung is fully committed to providing the highest quality products to our consumers."

Samsung began selling the Galaxy Note 7 on August 19 in 10 countries worldwide, including New Zealand where it retails for $1,599.