It seems Samsung's experiment with super-thin phones might be over. I've just learned that they've reportedly pulled the plug on the Galaxy S26 Edge, and it seems the reason is tied to the lukewarm reception of its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Edge. This phone, which was intended to rival the iPhone Air, apparently didn't quite hit the mark with consumers.

According to reports, Samsung actually halted the Galaxy S26 Edge project this week, making an internal announcement to its employees. Apparently, the decision to shift focus came after internal discussions pointed towards a preference for the more traditional "Plus" models. It looks like the demand for super-slim flagships just wasn't there.

The Galaxy S25 Edge boasted a super-thin profile, measuring just 5.5mm. However, this sleek design came with compromises, including a smaller battery. This, combined with a higher price tag, led to criticism. As a result, Samsung's leaders appear to have decided to focus on phones with wider appeal, rather than pursuing these niche, ultra-thin designs that may affect battery life and durability.

It's interesting to note that this decision comes just months after the Galaxy S25 Edge was released. The initial plan was to revive the "Edge" brand, which was previously associated with Samsung's curved-display models. The goal was to offer a sleek alternative to the Plus series, targeting trend-conscious buyers. However, it appears the plan has backfired.

So, what's next for Samsung? It sounds like they'll add a Galaxy S26 Plus model to its 2026 lineup, returning to the familiar three-tier structure of base, Plus, and Ultra variants. Although the Galaxy S26 Edge won't see the light of day, its development was already complete. Work on the S26 Plus is expected to begin soon.

Reportedly, the atmosphere inside Samsung is a mix of "chaotic" and "embarrassed" following this sudden change of plans. I can imagine that this is not the news that employees wanted to hear! The company plans to sell off its existing stock of the Galaxy S25 Edge and cease production once supplies run out.

Now, here's an interesting point. This situation might also be indicative of potential challenges for Apple's iPhone Air. One analyst noted that the iPhone Air was readily available at launch, hinting at lower-than-expected demand. It makes you wonder if the market for these super-thin phones is smaller than initially thought.