In summary
- Reports suggest Samsung may launch a Galaxy S26+ model
- Slow sales of Galaxy S25 Edge could be a factor
- Possible release of four models in 2026
Recent reports from South Korea hint that Samsung might be reconsidering its decision to release a Samsung Galaxy S26+ smartphone, despite previous rumors suggesting otherwise.
Previous speculations indicated that Samsung was moving away from larger Galaxy S models in favor of the sleeker Galaxy Edge line. However, a new report from TheElec challenges this notion, suggesting that a Samsung Galaxy S26+ is in the pipeline due to certain factors.
Plus and Edge, together again
The speculation of discontinuing the ‘Plus’ models stemmed from the underwhelming sales of models like the Samsung Galaxy S25+. With the introduction of the Galaxy S25 Edge last year, which offered similar features in a slimmer design, Samsung seemed poised to focus on the Edge series.
However, the Galaxy S25 Edge reportedly faced lackluster sales, prompting Samsung to rethink its strategy. The company now appears to be considering bringing back both the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26+ models.
A Galaxy of options
Instead of sticking to a single model, Samsung is rumored to follow this year’s pattern and launch four S26 devices, including the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26+. The decline in sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge shortly after its release in June has likely influenced this decision.
Critics have pointed out the compromises in the Galaxy S25 Edge, such as the average camera quality and battery life, despite its ultra-thin profile.
One UI 8.5 tipped for AI notifications
In other news, Samsung’s upcoming UI update, One UI 8.5, is rumored to introduce a new AI notification summary feature. This feature, similar to Apple’s iOS 26, will provide condensed notifications for quick understanding.
While the functionality is not yet operational, early leaks suggest that it aims to enhance user experience. The effectiveness of this feature will be a point of interest for users compared to Apple’s AI notification summaries.
Mattias Inghe
This article discusses the potential release of the Samsung Galaxy S26+ model amidst rumors and challenges faced by Samsung in the smartphone market. It also touches upon the upcoming UI update, One UI 8.5, and its rumored AI notification feature, offering readers insight into Samsung’s future plans.