Dec 22, 2024 | Updated: 11:35 AM EDT
Feb 23, 2017 08:54 AM EST
The Samsung Galaxy Note7 turned out to be a huge failure in 2016. However, there are rumors that the company will bring it back soon. A new report from South Korea hinted that the refurbished Note7 will become available in June 2017.
Based on a report by GSMArena, the original Samsung Galaxy Note7 and replacement units suffered from a defective battery last year, with several models allegedly even bursting unexpectedly. Samsung lost billions of dollars as a result but is now aiming to resurrect the phablet. The upcoming units will reportedly include a smaller battery and new outer shell. Other key components will most likely be replaced as well.
According to Android Authority, the refitted Samsung Galaxy Note7 will arrive in selected countries like Vietnam, although the company denied that the initial report stating that it will sell in India is incorrect. Samsung is expected to attempt to recover some of its losses by re-launching the Note7. The original 3,500mAh battery may be replaced with a 3,000 to 3,200mAh cell. It may also arrive at the same or a new design and branding.
Despite the defective battery, the Samsung Galaxy Note7 featured a fully functional 5.7-inch AMOLED display, an Exynos 8890 SoC and other mainboard parts. The same components may be included in the refurbished product or there may be entirely new units created from unused production line components, considering how Samsung already ordered these in bulk. It is unlikely for Samsung to use these for its upcoming flagship device, the Galaxy S8. Samsung may also opt to sell the remaining parts to other smartphone companies.
Users speculate that the South Korean-based company will not relaunch the device under the same Samsung Galaxy Note7 name, after its past two recalls and in preparation for the S8 and Note8. A lower cost alternative to the Note7 may sell well in Asia and South America, but not in the United States, where consumers would rather pay the premium for the S8 or Note8. In effect, Samsung will showcase a new model for Asian markets using components that were originally intended for the Note7.
Even if the device eventually releases in Asia, it would be ideal to change the Samsung Galaxy Note7 branding. Even Asian consumers have become wary of the defective nature of the original model. The improved unit may sell better with a new form and name. The company has yet to make an official announcement regarding the Samsung Galaxy Note7 or its integral parts. More updates and details are expected soon.
