In what could be a major shake-up for Samsung’s flagship phones, a recent rumour suggests that the tech giant might cancel the release of the base Galaxy S26 model scheduled for 2026.
While the Galaxy S25 series, including the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, is likely to still be on track for its usual January 2025 launch, the following year could bring significant changes.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
According to reputable leaker Ice Universe, Samsung may stop offering the standard Galaxy S model after the S25 series, leaving only the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra in 2026.
When OPPO Find X8 is released, you will find that one of the characteristics of the new flagship in 2024 is that it is small and powerful. Chinese brands are much better at making small-sized mobile phones than Samsung and Apple. You will realize that Galaxy S25 is no longer…
— ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce)
If true, this wouldn’t be the first time Samsung has rethought its flagship offerings. Last month, the company’s Galaxy Tab S10 series skipped the vanilla version, opting to release only the Galaxy Tab S10+ and S10 Ultra.
Now, it seems this strategy could extend to its phone lineup as well, signalling a broader shift in Samsung’s approach to competing with the best phones from other brands.
The decision to potentially cancel the base Galaxy S26 model appears to be driven by shifting market dynamics and increasing competition, especially from Chinese phone makers.
Brands like Oppo are gearing up to release smaller flagship phones that pack top-tier specifications, such as the upcoming Oppo Find X8.
These compact powerhouses may create a significant gap between what Samsung’s standard Galaxy S26 can offer compared to these smaller, but highly capable, alternatives.
In contrast, Samsung’s larger and more feature-rich models, like the Galaxy S26+ and S26 Ultra, still have a place as premium, high-end devices that cater to users looking for the best of the best.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Of course, these are still just rumours. Ice Universe, who first reported the possible cancellation of the Galaxy S26, has a solid track record but is also known for sometimes exaggerating predictions.
However, if this does pan out, it’ll would represent a significant shift in Samsung’s approach to the flagship phone market.
The Galaxy S26+ and S26 Ultra would be positioned to compete with the best phones available, offering a premium experience that could justify their higher price tags.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Whether this move will pay off in the long run remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the global phone landscape is shifting, and Samsung will need to adapt to keep up with the competition.
For now, however, all eyes are on the Galaxy S25 series, which could include Samsung’s last ‘standard’ Galaxy S model. On top of that, it looks like an even better Galaxy Z Fold 6 is coming, but you can’t have it.
So, all indications are that the Samsung Galaxy phones are in for big changes in 2026.
