Samsung has rolled out an innovative approach to smartphone ownership with the introduction of the “New Galaxy AI Subscription Club” in South Korea. This service enables consumers to use the latest Galaxy S25 series smartphones without the hefty upfront cost, by instead opting for a monthly subscription fee of KRW 5,900, roughly $4.09.
Under this new model, subscribers can choose between a 12 or 24-month plan. The benefits are compelling: after 12 months, returning the device grants subscribers a 50% residual value back, effectively halving the cost of the next Samsung Galaxy S series phone. Extend that to 24 months, and they receive 40% back. Additionally, the subscription includes Samsung Care Plus Smartphone Damage+, offering free repairs for any damage or issues, alongside discounts on accessories like cases and battery packs.
Lim Sung-Taek, Vice President of Samsung Electronics South Korea, highlighted this initiative as a game-changer, stating, “The ‘New Galaxy AI Subscription Club’ is a service that allows consumers to enjoy the latest Galaxy products every year at an affordable price. Following home appliances, this will change the purchasing paradigm for mobile products.”
While this service has launched in South Korea, there’s no confirmation yet on its expansion to other markets. If replicated globally, it could significantly alter consumer behavior towards smartphone purchases, making high-end tech more accessible. However, the exact details of the subscription’s benefits and potential caveats, particularly regarding the return policy, remain somewhat ambiguous due to language barriers and will require further clarification.