Seoul | May 14, 2025 – Just hours after unveiling the Galaxy S25 Edge, early reports from South Korea suggest that Samsung may be planning to discontinue the Galaxy S26+ in favor of a second-generation Galaxy S26 Edge, as part of a strategic shift in its flagship smartphone lineup.
According to sources close to Samsung’s development pipeline, the Galaxy S26 Edge is slated to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Ultra next year. Notably absent from the rumored lineup is the S26+, which has consistently underperformed in sales relative to its sibling models.
S26 Edge to Replace Underperforming S26+
The potential decision to eliminate the Plus variant reflects Samsung’s response to consumer demand and internal sales data, which shows a persistent lag in popularity for the Plus model. In 2025, Samsung is aiming to sell 37.7 million Galaxy S25 series units, with the Ultra model accounting for 17.4 million, the standard S25 at 13.6 million, and the S25+ trailing with just 6.7 million.
The S26 Edge, which debuted today in its first-generation form, appears poised to fill the space between the base and Ultra models. It reportedly emphasizes thinness and premium design, mirroring industry trends and aligning with similar rumors about Apple’s plan to replace its iPhone Plus with the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.
Early Rumor, Final Decision Still Pending
While these reports offer a glimpse into Samsung’s thinking, the S26 series is still in early development, and the company has yet to finalize its lineup. Sources caution that the removal of the S26+ is not confirmed, but is under serious consideration based on recent product strategy evaluations.
If the Galaxy S26 Edge becomes the de facto middle option, expectations are that Samsung may implement next-gen silicon-carbon (Si/C) battery technology, allowing for greater battery capacity in slimmer devices — a key feature that could boost its appeal over the discontinued Plus model.
Samsung has not issued an official comment on the matter.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
