Samsung to resell modified Galaxy Note 7s in developing countries

South Korean electronics company Samsung is reportedly ready to sell refurbished Galaxy Note 7 smartphones to emerging markets, in order to recoup some of its losses.

Samsung was rocked by a variety of reports from users in 2016 about their Note 7 devices catching fire and exploding, leading to a global recall and subsequent cessation of production.

The Note 7 debacle was a costly one for Samsung, with the company reporting that it has taken a $5bn hit already due to the recall of its flagship phone.

Markets such as India and Vietnam will see the resurgence of the smartphone, as well as other developing regions, as Samsung also attempts to avoid a fine for environmental damage.

Samsung, which has also been in the news for the arrest of its de-facto head Lee Jae Yong in relation to South Korean corruption, the batteries of the Note 7 were affected by a defective negative electrode in the battery.

The reports from the local Hankyung news agency suggest that over 200,000 of the devices were used during an investigation into the issue, leaving around 2.5 million handsets for Samsung to refurbish and sell on.

The company said at the beginning of 2017 that profits had been hit by the scandal, and expected growth to be stunted throughout the year.

"After the expensive lesson learned last year, let us make all necessary reforms. First, we will maintain the basics of product competitiveness. Quality has been the cornerstone of our success that we must not compromise. We will restore top quality standards through improved processes and strengthened testing," said current CEO Kwon Oh-hyun.