[THE INVESTOR] Samsung Electronics is expected to double shipments of its latest smartphone Galaxy Note 7 compared to those of its predecessor Note 5, a news report said on Aug. 16.

According to local news daily Chosun Biz, the Korean tech giant will produce a monthly average of 3 million units of the Note large-size smartphone in the third quarter, which compares to some 1.6 million units for the Note 5 last year. 

Considering the upbeat preorders before the official launch planned on Aug. 19, the total shipments could reach some 18 million units this year -- the highest-figure for a Note phone ever.

The daily said Samsung is also pushing parts-makers for stability in the phone’s supplies, hinting at diversifying suppliers for key parts such as camera modules for the iris scanner and curved display screens.

“Samsung is in talks with some 10 manufacturers to diversify suppliers for the camera modules,” an industry source was quoted as saying. Currently, Patron, a local producer, is the sole supplier of the iris-recognition camera modules.

Samsung plans to launch the Note 7 in key markets such as Korea, the US and China on Aug. 19. Some 400,000 preorders -- almost triple the figure for the flagship Galaxy S7 and its Edge variant -- have been made in Korea alone.

Some countries, such as the Netherlands and Russia, will see the phone’s arrival delayed due to supply constraints. Samsung said despite delays the phone will be launched in most markets within September.

The Note 7 boasts diverse new features, including an iris scanner for unlocking the phone, increased water resistance and upgraded pen functions.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)