The Galaxy Note 7 is being recalled over fires that have actually occurred.

So I don't think it's unfair to single them out in this case.

Most models of phone experience reports of the occasional battery fire. Its just at a rate perhaps an order of magnitude less than the GN7. I suspect the fact that Samsung itself issued a recall is probably the main reason the FAA felt they needed to issue some kind of statement.

It's an issue with batteries manufactured by Samsung SDI. Hong Kong Note 7's have batteries from ATL and are not subject to the recall

What are SDI and ATL?

Samsung SDI is their battery manufacturing subsidiary. ATL is Amperex Technology Limited, a Chinese battery manufacturer.

Can anyone more familiar with batteries please describe the issue to us?

> it's pretty unfair to single out Samsung.

Not at all when the common denominator is the fact that it's this specific device.

> Is this a Samsung-specific problem

A Samsung Galaxy Note 7 problem to be even more specific.