Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge Could Replace Traditional Plus Variant
Samsung may be preparing to shake up its long-standing flagship lineup. According to recent reports, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge could replace the Galaxy S26+ in 2025. This change follows the launch of the ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge, which has drawn attention for its premium design and flagship-level features.
Why Samsung Might Ditch the Galaxy Plus Model
Samsung typically launches three versions of its Galaxy S series: the base model, Plus, and Ultra. However, recent projections suggest a shift is coming. Industry insiders, including sources from The Elec, reveal that the Galaxy S25+ has underperformed in early market expectations.
For context, Samsung anticipates shipping 37.7 million Galaxy S25 units by the end of 2025:
-
17.4 million Galaxy S25 Ultra
-
13.6 million standard Galaxy S25
-
Only 6.7 million Galaxy S25+
This trend indicates that the Plus model is losing traction among consumers. In contrast, the Galaxy S25 Edge—introduced as a premium, ultra-slim alternative—has seen rising interest despite being a newcomer to the lineup.
What Makes the Galaxy S25 Edge Stand Out
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge was launched with a sleek 5.8mm thin design, attracting users looking for elegance and performance. While it maintains the same screen size as the S25+, it includes high-end features typically reserved for the Ultra version:
-
200MP camera sensor (shared with the Ultra)
-
6.7-inch Quad-HD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
-
Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset (custom for Samsung)
-
Android 15-based One UI 7
However, one area of concern is the battery. The device comes with a 3,900mAh battery, a modest capacity that has sparked debate due to Samsung’s previous battery performance concerns in slim phones.
Future Tech: Silicon-Carbon Batteries in Development
To address battery limitations in ultra-thin devices, Samsung is reportedly exploring silicon-carbon (Si/C) battery technology. This advancement could provide longer battery life without sacrificing the slim profile of models like the Galaxy S26 Edge.
According to industry updates, the upcoming Galaxy S26 Edge is expected to feature this new battery tech, potentially solving power concerns and making the Edge variant a viable replacement for the Plus model.
Galaxy S26 Series Already Underway
Development for the Galaxy S26 series, internally code-named “NPA,” has already started. Samsung is currently testing four different OLED panels, suggesting multiple model options are in the works.
Whether the Galaxy S26 Edge becomes a permanent part of the lineup depends largely on consumer feedback for the current Galaxy S25 Edge. If demand continues to rise, Samsung may officially phase out the Plus variant to make room for this newer, more refined design.
Conclusion: A Strategic Shift Toward Sleeker Phones
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge could mark a new direction for Samsung’s flagship strategy. By offering high-end specs in a thinner frame, it targets both performance-focused and design-conscious users. If successful, this move may signal the end of the traditional Plus model and usher in a new era of slim smartphones from Samsung.
To stay updated on future Galaxy models, visit the Samsung Newsroom or follow detailed model insights on SamMobile.
