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Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series may change the most in 2026. While it was thought the Galaxy S26 lineup would include the standard Galaxy S26, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra, new reports indicate that Samsung might eliminate the standard variant.

Android Authority reported that internal builds of One UI 8 suggest Samsung may be working on a new lineup consisting of Galaxy S26 Pro, Edge and Ultra phones - perhaps as part of an internal realignment with premium tiers and possibly changing prices accordingly.

Why Drop the Standard Model?

Samsung's Galaxy S model has long served as an entry-level device in their flagship ecosystem, offering premium features at an attractive value price point relative to Plus or Ultra models. As data has revealed, Ultra models in particular are particularly coveted among customers.

By upgrading its standard variant with a "Pro" model, Samsung may increase sales by raising minimum specs and price, thus turning its Galaxy S series into an even more premium lineup.

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Leaked Codenames Reveal Lineup Changes

Earlier speculation related to NP1, NP2 and NP3, where NP probably means next paradigm, being associated with the Galaxy S26, S26 Edge and S26 Ultra, claims otherwise now.

According to insiders, the latest One UI 8 firmware still refers to the three devices as M1, M2 and M3, which are believed to coordinate with Galaxy S26 Pro, S26 Edge and S26 Ultra, respectively.

The firmware seems to further reinforce speculation that Samsung is planning to retire the standard Galaxy S26 along with the Plus variant, positioning the Edge model as the mid-tier device in the lineup.

The Positioning of the Galaxy S25 Edge

This isn't entirely a surprise, as earlier this year, Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Edge, positioning it in between the Galaxy S25+ and S25 Ultra. The Edge variant is marketed as a sleek and powerful option to the Plus model with a slim 5.8mm profile and a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset.

Based on leaks, Samsung planned to assess how well the S25 Edge did in sales before deciding if they would change the models in the lineup. If this report is accurate, the company seems to have enough confidence in the Edge's placement to make it a core model of the S26 lineup.

What This Means for Pricing and Features

It is possible that Galaxy S26 Pro could serve as the entry-level S Galaxy but with better specifications and a higher price. Samsung may adopt a similar strategy to Apple and use "Pro" to market advanced hardware and special features that may come with it.

The Edge variant could serve as the mid-tier option, and the Ultra would remain as the flagship powerhorse of Samsung, now with an advanced camera system, latest Snapdragon processors, and materials used in the rest of the device that would be considered premium design.

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If this rumour is to be considered true, the flagship range of Samsung could be focused on Samsung's flagship devices, leaving the A-series or FE (Fan Edition) to fill in the gap in the more affordable high-end segment.

Expected Launch Timeline

Samsung typically releases its Galaxy S-series smartphones during the first or second month each year. As is customary, this should mean that the 2026 Galaxy S26 lineup should debut by no earlier than the first half. Yet these modifications, combined with possible refinements in Samsung's branding strategy, may allow it to capture consumer reactions to its S25 Galaxy Series later on in 2026.

Final Word

Samsung could be signalling something big with their decision to drop standard Galaxy S26 and Plus variants, signalling their intention to shift away from tradition and focus more on ultra-premium products like their ultra-premium line of Galaxy devices.