Why Samsung Is Abandoning Ultra

Samsung has reportedly canceled its upcoming Galaxy S26 Edge smartphone. The decision comes after disappointing sales of the current ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge model. This abrupt move signals a major strategic shift for the tech giant.

According to a report from Korea’s NewsPim, the company informed employees internally this week. Development on the S26 Edge has been completely halted. This follows internal discussions in September that questioned the future of the ultra-slim flagship category.

Internal Chaos Follows Sudden Lineup Revision

The Galaxy S25 Edge, launched just five months ago, features a 5.5mm profile. Its high price and 3,900mAh battery drew criticism from some users. Samsung’s leadership apparently decided these compromises were not worth the sleek design.

The atmosphere inside the company is now described as chaotic. Employees were reportedly caught off guard by the sudden cancellation. Samsung will now focus on models with broader consumer appeal, like the upcoming S26 Plus.

Broader Impact on the Ultra-Thin Phone Market

This decision may not bode well for the entire ultra-thin phone segment. Apple’s iPhone Air, a direct competitor, also faced availability issues at launch. This suggests a shared market challenge for this specific product category.

Samsung will now revert to its traditional three-tier lineup. The base, Plus, and Ultra models will return for the Galaxy S26 series. The original plan to revive the “Edge” brand as a sleeker alternative has been abandoned.

The cancellation of the Galaxy S26 Edge marks a significant retreat from the ultra-thin smartphone frontier. It appears Samsung is prioritizing practical features over extreme design, a clear response to what consumers are actually buying.

Info at your fingertips

Why was the Galaxy S26 Edge canceled?

It was canceled due to disappointing sales of the current Galaxy S25 Edge. Samsung decided consumer demand for ultra-slim phones was weaker than expected. The company will now focus on more popular models.

What will replace the Galaxy S26 Edge?

Samsung will reportedly add a Galaxy S26 Plus model to its 2026 lineup. This returns the company to its standard three-model structure. The Plus model typically offers a balance of size and features.

How thin was the Galaxy S25 Edge?

The Galaxy S25 Edge featured a slim 5.5mm profile. This was a key selling point for the device. However, it came with a smaller 3,900mAh battery.

What does this mean for Apple’s iPhone Air?

This decision suggests a broader market challenge for ultra-thin phones. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted the iPhone Air was readily available at launch, hinting at lower demand. Samsung’s move may indicate a trend.

When will the Galaxy S26 Plus be released?

An official release date has not been announced. Development on the S26 Plus is expected to begin before the end of the third quarter of 2025. This follows the sudden cancellation of the Edge model.