The latest Samsung flagship smartphones — the Galaxy S7 and the Galaxy S7 edge — seem to be on everyone's wish list and is turning out to be quite a consumer favorite.
However, those who preordered either of the handsets from Verizon Wireless to take advantage of its promotional offer have some disappointing news headed their way — the free Gear S2 smartwatch's shipment has been delayed.
Earlier in February, we reported that Verizon offered freebies for those who preordered the Galaxy S7 edge or the Galaxy S7 from the carrier. Customers could either opt for the Gear VR headset or the Gear S2 smartwatch as part of the limited period promotion which expired on March 18.
As part of the promotion, customers were assured by Verizon that the free Gear S2 or Gear VR would reach within four to six weeks post the verification of the claim.
"Offer claim form and valid purchase receipt must be submitted online by 3/31/16 at 11:59:59 p.m. EST. Subject to verification, customers will receive offer within approximately 4-6 weeks after verification of offer claim," assured Verizon at the time.
However, Verizon is now sending out letters to customers informing that the shipment of the Gear S2 has been delayed.
Verizon cites "high level of interest" in its promotion as the reason for the delay of the smartwatch's shipment. The delivery time frame has now been extended from the initial promised 4 to 6 weeks to May. A possibility exists — as the carrier disclaims — that the arrival of the Gear S2 could even extend to summer this year.
"Hello [name], Congratulations! Your submission has been approved. We will ship your Samsung Gear S2 to the mailing address you provided when registering for this Offer. Please note that due to the high level of interest in the Verizon Offer promotion, delivery times for Gear S2 are now extending into May and potentially Summer 2016. Once shipped, we will send you an email with your tracking number," reads the letter per reports.
The news will disappoint people who preordered the Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge in hopes of gaining a Gear S2 smartwatch for free. Consumers would be hoping that Verizon will take a cue from Samsung and offer aggrieved customers a $100 store credit in lieu of the freebie, which can be used to purchase anything from the carrier's online or physical stores, if they do not want to wait for their Gear S2 to arrive.
Photo: Maurizio Pesce | Flickr
