[Parbhani, India] – Samsung is planning a major change in its flagship smartphone lineup with the introduction of a new ‘Edge’ model in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, according to a report from TheElec. This new variant is expected to replace the Plus model, which has consistently lagged behind in sales compared to the Standard and Ultra versions.
Sources within Samsung’s component supply chain have confirmed that development of the Galaxy S26 series has already begun under the project codename NPA, a successor to the PA (Paradigm) codename used for the Galaxy S25 series.
Galaxy S26: A Three-Model Launch Strategy
As it stands, Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S26 lineup with the following three models:
- Galaxy S26 (Standard)
- Galaxy S26 Edge (Slim Model)
- Galaxy S26 Ultra (Premium)
However, the company is keeping its options open. If the Galaxy S25 Edge—scheduled to be unveiled this week—fails to meet expectations, Samsung may revert back to the traditional Plus model for the S26.
Sales Trends Drive Lineup Restructuring
The shift comes amid clear signs that the Plus variant is the weakest performer in the Galaxy S lineup:
- Galaxy S25 shipment targets:
- Standard: 13.6 million units
- Ultra: 17.4 million units
- Plus: Only 6.7 million units
The Ultra model alone accounts for over 40% of Galaxy S series sales, highlighting a consumer trend toward high-end flagship smartphones. Apple has reportedly encountered similar challenges with its iPhone Plus line and is also considering replacing it with a slim version in its iPhone 17 series.
Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 Highlighted Ahead of Launch
Samsung has unusually promoted one of the key features of the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge before launch — the use of Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2. This next-generation protective glass adds strength to what Samsung calls its “slimmest Galaxy S model yet,” positioning the Edge variant as a durability-focused yet stylish flagship alternative.
OLED Panels in Development Suggest Flexible Strategy
Another major development involves Samsung’s internal work on four different OLED display panels for the Galaxy S26 series. This may suggest:
- Samsung is preparing for both an Edge and a Plus variant
- The final lineup will depend on how the S25 Edge performs commercially
NPA Project Still in Early Stages
Samsung is currently selecting first and second-tier vendors for key components. While the S26 series is in early development, its final configuration remains fluid.
Conclusion
With the smartphone market evolving post-pandemic and consumers leaning more toward premium models, Samsung is poised to refresh its approach. The introduction of the Galaxy S26 Edge may mark a turning point if it successfully replaces the struggling Plus variant. The success or failure of the Galaxy S25 Edge in the coming weeks will likely determine the structure of Samsung’s 2025 flagship lineup.