The launch of the Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus has been a resounding success with more than 10 million smartphones sold in the first weekend alone. At least one of its key competitors is making adjustments to its plans as a result of this news. According to The Korea Times, Samsung’s top management is unhappy to see how well the iPhone 6’s launch has gone. As a result, it will move up the launch in South Korea of its Galaxy Note 4 phablet from early October to later this week.
An unnamed executive in Samsung’s marketing department is quotes as saying, “The positive reaction from consumers to those two Apple devices prompted us to launch the Note 4 earlier than previously scheduled. Samsung will be aggressive in promoting the Note 4 as it’s true that we are being challenged and pressured amid a difficult situation.”
All three major South Korean carriers, SK Telecom, KT and LG U+, will now offer the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 starting on September 26. Pre-orders are also underway in the U.S. with both AT&T and T-Mobile expected to launch it on October 14. It is also coming to Canada although specific launch details are still not known.
The report also indicates that the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 could be the cheapest Note phablet yet. Whereas the Galaxy Note 3 sold for KRW 1.06 million (about CA$1125), the Galaxy Note 4 could sell for as low as KRW 957,000 (about CA$1015). Even the original Galaxy Note sold for KRW 999,000 (about CA$1060).
Samsung is reportedly looking to ship 15 million Galaxy Note 4s within the first 30 days. It could ship 3.75 million units for the launch weekend alone.
Sources : The Korea Times // G for Games