Samsung Reportedly Cancels “Edge” Variant in Galaxy S26 Lineup
South Korea’s Samsung is reportedly shelving the planned “Edge” model in its upcoming Galaxy S26 series, according to multiple industry sources. The decision comes after weak market response to last year’s slim flagship.
The Edge variant of last year’s series, introduced as a thinner, lighter alternative in the S-series flagship line, reportedly sold only about 1.31 million units by August, falling short compared to millions in sales for the standard and Ultra models. That underperformance is cited as a key factor behind the cancellation decision.
As a result, Samsung is said to have informed internal teams that the S26 Edge model will not be part of the early 2026 flagship launch. Instead, the company is expected to retain or revive its traditional model structure comprising the standard version, a “Plus” or similar mid-tier variant, and the Ultra revision. The Edge model may still appear later as a separate or niche product, but its place in the core S26 launch lineup is now uncertain.
Analysts suggest this move reflects Samsung’s reassessment of market demand. The ultra-slim flagship concept may have appealed as a design variation, but compromises on battery capacity and performance may have limited its appeal. The cancellation is also likely to simplify the S26 model matrix, allowing Samsung to focus on fewer head-lining models and avoid diluting its flagship branding.
While the cancellation is still based on unconfirmed internal reports and Samsung has yet to issue an official statement, the news signals a strategic shift ahead of the S26 flagship series launch.
The Edge variant of last year’s series, introduced as a thinner, lighter alternative in the S-series flagship line, reportedly sold only about 1.31 million units by August, falling short compared to millions in sales for the standard and Ultra models. That underperformance is cited as a key factor behind the cancellation decision.
As a result, Samsung is said to have informed internal teams that the S26 Edge model will not be part of the early 2026 flagship launch. Instead, the company is expected to retain or revive its traditional model structure comprising the standard version, a “Plus” or similar mid-tier variant, and the Ultra revision. The Edge model may still appear later as a separate or niche product, but its place in the core S26 launch lineup is now uncertain.
Analysts suggest this move reflects Samsung’s reassessment of market demand. The ultra-slim flagship concept may have appealed as a design variation, but compromises on battery capacity and performance may have limited its appeal. The cancellation is also likely to simplify the S26 model matrix, allowing Samsung to focus on fewer head-lining models and avoid diluting its flagship branding.
While the cancellation is still based on unconfirmed internal reports and Samsung has yet to issue an official statement, the news signals a strategic shift ahead of the S26 flagship series launch.