Sales at the mobile division fell to KRW 25.00 trillion from 26.29 trillion a year earlier, while operating profit improved to KRW 2.23 trillion from 1.96 trillion. Samsung said it saw higher shipments of the Note 5 as well as its mid-range A series phones, and tablet shipments were also higher on a quarterly basis due to strong seasonality.
For the first quarter, Samsung said smartphone and tablet demand will decline due to normal seasonal patterns, while its own earnings should improve thanks to new models and a better product modex. Shipments will decrease slightly due to weak seasonality and discontinuation of old models.
For the full year 2016, Samsung expects only single-digit growth in the smartphone and tablet market and strong competition. The company said it will "strive to maintain solid earnings through reinforcing product competitiveness and efficiently managing line-ups"
Samsung's consumer electronics business reported sales down to KRW 13.85 trillion in Q4 from KRW 14.27 trillion a year earlier, while operating profit improved to KRW 0.82 trillion from 0.18 trillion. Samsung said results were helped by strong Black Friday sales and seasonality in North America, including strong shipments of premium products liked SUHD and curved TVs. It will continue to focus on premium sales, amid the economic slowdown in emerging markets.
