In further move to grab onto local customers after its global flop with Galaxy Note7 amidst the release of rivaling iPhone 7, Samsung Electronics offered anyone replacing combustion-prone Galaxy Note7 with existing Galaxy phones the option of buying new series in premium models at half the price.

Owners of Galaxy Note7 before the global recall in September as well as the replacement devices can exchange the phones into any models regardless of the brand after the electronics giant decided to discontinue the latest innovation because of the risk of battery-embedded device catching fire.

The company added appeal to the full-refund policy in hopes that its customers do not shift to iPhone or rivaling LG phones. Anyone that exchange Note7 to either Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 Edge will be offered a 12 month exemption in device installment payment if they buy a new Galaxy S8 or Galaxy Note8 launching next year. Smartphone typically is bought on a two-year pricing program in Korea with a wireless carrier that includes installment for the phone.

For example, if a current Galaxy Note7 owner exchanges the device to a Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 Edge on a two-year installment plan and wishes to shift to the new Galaxy S8 that is expected to be released in February or March, the local consumer will only have to pay for about 6 month installment fee. Customers waiting for the next Note8 that is usually out in third quarter could save 12-month payment for their device.

Samsung Electronics said that consumers that have already exchanged their Galaxy Note7 to Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 Edge devices will also be applied retroactively to the new compensation program that will be offered until November 30. The company plans to announce a more detailed plan after discussion with local mobile carriers.

The new compensation program will also offer consumers fast track service when they visit Samsung Electronics’ service centers, allowing them to receive priority repair service and two half discounts on screen repair costs.

Samsung Electronics is expected to announce similar compensation program for overseas customers. The move comes after the company announced on October 11 that it will halt the production of all Galaxy Note7 devices following concerns over overheating of batteries. The exchange and refund services that began from October 18 will continue until the end of the year.

By Shin Hyun-kyu

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