Despite earlier signals that Samsung would maintain its usual January release timeline-despite speculation around the cancelation of the Galaxy S26 Edge-a new leak indicates that the entire S26 series could be pushed back. Instead of a January debut, the Galaxy S26 is now rumored to be unveiled in February and officially available for purchase in March.

Is the Galaxy S26 truly delayed?

The latest information comes from Ice Universe, a well-known leaker with a strong track record, who posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the Galaxy S26 series will debut during a Galaxy Unpacked event in February, with sales beginning in March.

According to Ice Universe, this timeline represents a delay from Samsung’s earlier internal schedule, even though it aligns with typical past release cycles.

Previously, South Korean outlet ChosunBiz reported, citing Samsung insiders, that the company still intended to launch the phone in late January and begin sales in February-just like it did with the Galaxy S25. The conflicting reports created uncertainty about the actual timing-until the new leaks appeared to solidify the later schedule.

Meanwhile, a report from Korea Economic Daily confirmed that Samsung has officially ceased development of the Galaxy S26 Edge.

Why cancel the Edge model?

Sources cited by SamMobile claim that the primary reason behind dropping the Edge variant was the underwhelming sales of its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Edge, and a general lack of market interest.

One key complaint was the device’s 3,900mAh battery, considered insufficient for a flagship phone. Although future models could have addressed this with larger batteries, Samsung was unsure whether consumers would give the Edge line another chance.

Apple faces similar challenges with its iPhone Air-a lightweight model with limited battery life and camera performance. According to The Information, Apple hasn’t scrapped the project entirely but has indefinitely postponed the iPhone Air 2.

These decisions signal a shift in consumer expectations. Surveys show that smartphone buyers now prioritize practical value, strong battery life, and useful features over ultra-slim form factors. Neither the Galaxy S25 Edge nor the iPhone Air met these needs completely.

As a result, Samsung is likely reverting to its traditional three-model structure, emphasizing real-world performance over slim design.

Strategic delay-or return to normal?

While no official date has been confirmed, launching the Galaxy S26 in February wouldn’t be unprecedented. The Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S22 both debuted in February, as did the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy S10, with availability typically following in March.

If Samsung sticks with its established pattern-announcing new models at Galaxy Unpacked and releasing them roughly two weeks later-a February event and March release would fit seamlessly. This schedule also gives the company additional time to fine-tune its products in a fiercely competitive market.

The previously rumored cancelation of the Edge model had sparked speculation that Samsung was forced to overhaul its roadmap, resulting in delays. However, CAD renderings shared by Android Headlines and OnLeaks confirm the existence of the Galaxy S26 Plus, which is expected to feature a more robust and thicker design-about 7.35mm-closely matching the S25 Plus and noticeably bulkier than the now-defunct ultra-thin S25 Edge.

Whether Samsung is retiring the “Edge” branding for good or simply putting it on hold until battery technologies advance remains to be seen.

Focus shifts to performance and practicality

Even if the Galaxy S26 launches later than some had hoped, it appears Samsung is prioritizing a more pragmatic path-enhancing battery life, features, and overall user experience, rather than chasing extreme thinness.

This shift shows that Samsung is listening to the market. And if the leaks prove accurate, February and March 2026 will mark the unveiling of one of the most anticipated smartphones of the year-a Galaxy S26 lineup that is expected to be practical, powerful, and aligned with the real needs of today’s users.

Hai Phong