Trending Now - Samsung Galaxy Users Cautioned About Flashlight Fire Hazards

WHO:

TechRadar - Samsung Galaxy users are cautioned about potential fire risks.

Android Authority - Zac Kew-Denniss reports on the issue and mentions that both Samsung and Apple devices are involved.

WHAT:

TechRadar - An expert has branded Samsung Galaxy flashlights as ‘a potential fire risk’ after a viral TikTok showed a Galaxy S25 burning a hole through a plastic bag.

Android Authority - A TikTok clip showing a Galaxy S25 FE torch burning through a thin black garbage bag has garnered over 13 million views.

Android Authority - Tests conducted by Tom’s Guide show that both the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max can melt plastic under maximum brightness conditions.

WHERE:

Android Authority - The tests were conducted by Tom’s Guide, although specific locations are not mentioned.

WHEN:

Android Authority - The viral videos have been circulating for over a year, but the trend has recently resurfaced on social media.

WHY:

Android Authority - Modern smartphones use powerful LED flashlights that can generate heat at close range, leading to the potential for melting plastic when left on for extended periods.

Android Authority - Samsung is aware of the behavior and has included a warning for users when the flashlight is used at maximum brightness.

HOW:

Android Authority - The melting occurs when the flashlight is set to maximum brightness and is pressed against plastic or synthetic materials for a prolonged duration.

(UPDATED April 27, 2026 17:26 UTC)

Samsung Galaxy users are being warned about potential fire risks associated with their devices, particularly after a viral TikTok showed a Galaxy S25 torch burning through a plastic bag. An expert has labeled the Galaxy flashlights as a potential fire hazard, and tests have revealed that both the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max can melt plastic when used at maximum brightness. Samsung is aware of this issue and has included a warning for users regarding the flashlight's use at high settings, as this can generate enough heat to cause melting when pressed against plastic for extended periods.