Concerns Over Discontinuation... Global Petition Demands Release of New Galaxy Note Model

Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra

[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] A global petition demanding the release of the new 'Galaxy Note,' Samsung Electronics' strategic flagship smartphone and cash cow product, has begun, drawing attention. Samsung Electronics has typically unveiled new Galaxy Note models at the second half Unpacked event held every August, but will not release one this year.

On the 30th (local time), IT specialized media SamMobile reported that more than 10,000 people participated in the petition to launch the 2022 new Galaxy Note flagship within less than 24 hours since it started, indicating that customers' loyalty to the Note series remains strong.

The Galaxy Note has been a cash cow product for Samsung Electronics, with cumulative sales of around 10 million units per series since its launch. Samsung Electronics has officially decided not to release a new Galaxy Note this year due to global semiconductor chip shortages and strengthening its foldable lineup. Instead, it will introduce new foldable smartphones such as the 'Galaxy Z Flip3' and 'Galaxy Z Fold3.' The cost-effective 'Galaxy S21 Fan Edition (FE)' is also expected to launch in the second half of the year.

SamMobile stated, "It is the first time in about 10 years that a new Galaxy Note flagship will not be released," adding, "Samsung fans are not very happy. The Galaxy Note series has a very loyal fan base."

Samsung Electronics has repeatedly denied rumors of discontinuation circulating in some quarters. At the shareholders' meeting in March, Samsung Electronics IM Division Head (President) Ko Dong-jin said, "Releasing two flagship models with S Pen in one year can be quite burdensome," but "the Note category is being prepared by the business division to release a product next year," dismissing the discontinuation rumors.

Samsung Electronics Wireless Business Division Head (President) No Tae-moon also mentioned the Galaxy Note in a recent article released to Samsung Newsroom ahead of the second half Unpacked. He said, "Although the Galaxy Note series will not be introduced this time, the Note experience will continue to expand across various Galaxy devices, preparing for a bright future."

However, rumors of discontinuation persist among fans who have used the Galaxy Note series. President No's statement that "the Note experience will continue to expand across various Galaxy devices" is interpreted by some as implying a long-term discontinuation. Recently, Samsung Electronics has been expanding the S Pen support feature, which was unique to the Galaxy Note series, to other models such as the S series and foldables. The Galaxy Z Fold3, to be unveiled at the Unpacked event on the 11th of next month, is also known to support the S Pen.

SamMobile reported, "Samsung Electronics has not stated that the Galaxy Note series will be discontinued, but as the S Pen expands to more devices, some fans worry that the company may eventually stop producing the Galaxy Note." The media encouraged petition participation again, saying, "To satisfy the most loyal fans, Samsung Electronics should release a new Galaxy Note next year."