Faced with underwhelming demand for ultra-thin smartphones such as the Galaxy S25 Edge and Apple's iPhone Air, Samsung Electronics has reportedly canceled the development of its planned Galaxy S26 Edge, originally scheduled for a 2026 launch. The move underscores the company's shifting strategy amid growing concerns over the commercial viability of slimmed-down smartphone designs.
Cancellation follows weak market response
According to TheElec, citing industry sources in South Korea, Samsung halted the S26 Edge project during the week of October 13, 2025, and instead added a Galaxy S26 Plus variant to its product roadmap, set to begin development by the end of the third quarter of 2025.
Traditionally, Samsung's flagship Galaxy S series has included three core models: the base version, a Plus variant, and the high-end Ultra. Earlier reports by ET News suggested Samsung had been considering reviving the "Edge" branding to replace the underperforming Plus line. However, that plan now appears to be in jeopardy.
Industry analysts say the abrupt cancellation was likely driven by poor market response to the Galaxy S25 Edge, which launched in May 2025, and similar struggles for Apple's iPhone Air. Despite hopes that a thinner, sleeker design would attract consumers, sales have reportedly dropped sharply just one month after launch—well before the typical three-month peak window for smartphone sales.
Financial stakes run high
The financial risks are considerable. South Korean analysts estimate that if the Galaxy S25 Plus model underperforms by even 1 million units, Samsung could lose up to KRW1.35 trillion (US$950 million) in revenue. As a result, the company is opting to revert to more proven form factors.
Insiders also note that it's highly unlikely the Galaxy S26 Edge will be introduced as a standalone model using recycled components—such as OLED panels from the S25 Edge—due to weak demand projections and diminished strategic interest.
Samsung's original shipment targets for the Galaxy S25 series reflect this cautious outlook. Of the 37.7 million total units planned, the Plus variant accounts for the smallest share at 6.7 million units, compared to 13.6 million for the base model and 17.4 million for the Ultra.
Apple faces similar challenges
Apple is reportedly facing similar skepticism around its iPhone Air. For the second half of 2025, Apple is expected to allocate production for its iPhone 17 lineup as follows: iPhone 17 (base) 20–25%, iPhone Air 10–15%, iPhone 17 Pro 30–35%, and iPhone 17 Pro Max 35–40%.
This quiet rebalancing from both tech giants signals a broader industry retreat from experimental thin designs, as manufacturers refocus on models with stronger market traction.
Article edited by Jerry Chen
