Samsung has always been a trendsetter in the smartphone game, rolling out new Galaxy S models every year. But whispers are swirling that 2026’s Galaxy S26 lineup could shake things up even more. Word on the street is that the beloved “Plus” variant might get the boot, making way for the ultra-sleek Galaxy S Edge series instead.
With the Galaxy S25 Edge freshly unveiled, analysts are eyeing its performance as the ultimate litmus test. Will consumers rally behind this new thinner design, or will Samsung be forced to stick with its four-model formula? Strap in—this ride through Samsung’s product strategy could redefine the future of flagship phones.
Time to Say Goodbye to the Plus?
For years, Samsung’s Galaxy S lineup has followed a tried-and-true pattern: a base model, a beefed-up Plus edition, and an all-out Ultra flagship. But recent component supplier chatter suggests the Plus phone could disappear when the S26 series drops in 2026 under the internal codename Project NPA.
Instead of four distinct phones, the rumor mill claims Samsung will slim down to three: the Galaxy S26, the Galaxy S26 Edge, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This would leave the Galaxy S26+ on the cutting room floor. It’s a big leap for Samsung, especially since the S25+ still accounted for over 6.7 million shipments out of nearly 38 million Galaxy S25 units in 2025.
To put that in perspective, the standard S25 pushed 13.6 million units, while the S25 Ultra blew expectations out of the water with 17.4 million. If Samsung’s planning to consolidate, it’s banking on the Edge variant to fill the Plus-shaped hole in its product spectrum.
All Eyes on the S25 Edge
So, what makes the Galaxy S25 Edge so critical? For starters, it’s the thinnest, most refined design in the series yet. Sporting a more ergonomic curve and a tapered frame, this model is engineered to attract everyone who values both style and power. If consumers bite, Samsung might have its green light to retire the Plus.
This isn’t just about aesthetics. Under the hood, the S25 Edge packs the same top-tier processor found in the Ultra, along with robust camera specs and a 120Hz display. By slimming down the Plus variant, Samsung can focus R&D dollars and marketing muscle on two truly standout models: the Edge and the Ultra.
And Samsung isn’t the only one eyeing a shakeup. Rumors suggest Apple might drop its own Plus devices in favor of an iPhone 17 Air, a lighter, more refined option to rival Samsung’s Edge series. If both giants pursue a trimmer lineup, 2026 could mark a new era of smartphone minimalism.
Possible Four-Model Comeback?
Not everyone’s convinced the Plus is dead in the water. Insiders quoted by Korean site The Elec say Samsung is developing four different OLED screen types for the S26 generation. That could mean the company is hedging its bets, ready to revive the closed-but-not-forgotten Plus model if sales of the Edge underwhelm.
Maintaining flexibility seems wise—consumer tastes can shift overnight, especially when a rival launches a compelling option. Should the S25 Edge miss the mark, Samsung’s hardware partners could still ramp up production of the larger, slightly thicker screens reserved for a potential Plus comeback.
Consumer Takeaway
So what does this all mean for you? If you’re eyeing an upgrade right now, the Galaxy S25 Edge presents a slick package. You’ll get high-end specs, a standout design, and maybe a hint of exclusivity—after all, it could soon become Samsung’s go-to mid-tier flagship.
On the flip side, waiting for the S26 lineup might offer broader choices. If Samsung decides to keep the Plus around, you could end up with more options at different price points. In the end, flexibility is king—whether you crave the thinnest profile or a slightly larger screen, Samsung’s shifting strategy aims to hit every sweet spot.
