Samsung drops Note 7 smartphone for S8 series

Samsung Electronics has introduced the Galaxy S8 series smartphones

even as it waits to take a decision on whether or not to sell the

refurbished versions of the Galaxy Note 7 smartphones pulled from

markets due to fire-prone batteries.



According to the company, the new smartphones push the boundaries of

traditional smartphones with "its seamless hardware design and a

variety of new service offerings."



It said that the features of its Galaxy S8 series included an infinity

display for immersive viewing experiences, adding that "the Galaxy S8

and S8+ bring a new Level of functionality and convenience, opening up

a galaxy of possibilities."



The President, Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics, DJ

Koh, said, "The Samsung Galaxy S8 ushers in a new era of smartphone

design and fantastic new services, opening up new ways to experience

the world.



"The Galaxy S8 is our testament to regaining your trust by redefining

what's possible in safety and marks a new milestone in Samsung's

smartphone legacy."



He said that the Galaxy S8 series built on Samsung's heritage of

creating designs and functional devices.



"Available in 5.8-inch Galaxy S8 and 6.2- inch Galaxy S8+, the

infinity display and bezel-less design form a smooth, continuous

surface with no buttons or harsh angles. The result is a truly

immersive viewing experience without distractions and makes

multi-tasking more convenient.



"The compact design of the S8 series enables comfortable one-handed

operation and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back for

durability and a high-quality finish."



He added, "In addition to the new design innovations, Samsung

continues to deliver cutting edge technology including an advanced

camera, enhanced performance and more to the devices that users love.



"The devices are equipped with an advanced 8MP F1.7 Smart autofocus

front camera and 12MP F1.7 Dual Pixel rear camera for the best

low-light, zoom and anti-blur photos with enhanced image processing."



Meanwhile, a person familiar with the Samsung Note 7 matter said that

the company was considering the possibility of selling refurbished

versions of the device or reusing some parts from the recalled phones.



"Regarding the Galaxy Note 7 devices as refurbished phones or rental

phones, applicability is dependent upon consultations with regulatory

authorities and carriers as well as due consideration of local

demand," Samsung said in a statement, adding the firm would pick the

markets and release dates for refurbished Note 7s accordingly.



The company also said it planned to recover and use or sell reusable

components such as chips and camera modules and extract rare metals

such as copper, gold, nickel and silver from Note 7 devices it opted

not to sell as refurbished products.



The firm has been under pressure from environment rights group,

Greenpeace, and others to come up with environmentally friendly ways

to deal with the recovered Note 7s.



Greenpeace said in a separate statement that it welcomed Samsung's

decision and the firm should carry out its plans in a verifiable

manner.