Samsung's experiment with the ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge appears to be just the beginning of a strategic shift in their flagship lineup, despite receiving mixed reactions from consumers. The company is reportedly doubling down on the slim form factor concept, with plans to replace the traditional Plus model with the Edge variant in next year's Galaxy S26 series.
Engineering Innovations Behind the Ultra-Thin Design
The Galaxy S25 Edge, released in May 2025, showcases Samsung's engineering prowess with its remarkably slim 5.84mm profile. To achieve this svelte design, Samsung implemented several technical innovations. The device features a new ESA0815 vibration motor measuring just 2.73mm thin—even slimmer than the one in the premium Galaxy S25 Ultra—while paradoxically delivering stronger haptic feedback. Samsung also borrowed the 1.75mm speakers from the Galaxy Z Fold 6 to further minimize thickness without compromising audio quality.
Galaxy S25 Edge Key Specifications:
- Thickness: 5.84mm
- Vibration motor: ESA0815 (2.73mm thin)
- Speakers: 1.75mm (same as Galaxy Z Fold 6)
- Battery capacity: 3,900mAh
- Camera system: Dual camera (no telephoto lens)
- Release date: May 2025
Compromises Made for Slimness
The pursuit of extreme thinness hasn't come without sacrifices. Critics have pointed out that the S25 Edge makes notable compromises compared to the S25 Plus, particularly its reduced 3,900mAh battery capacity and the absence of telephoto cameras. These limitations have contributed to the lukewarm initial reception of the device, as consumers weigh the aesthetic appeal of the slim design against practical functionality.
Strategic Implications for Samsung's Lineup
According to a report from The Elec, Samsung is not deterred by the mixed reception and plans to continue with the Edge concept for the Galaxy S26 series. More significantly, the company is considering eliminating the Galaxy S26 Plus entirely, replacing it with the Edge model. This restructuring makes strategic sense given the similar display sizes and dimensions of the Plus and Edge variants, with the latter offering a more premium look and potentially commanding higher margins.
Potential Impact on Foldable Technology
The development of ultra-thin components for the Galaxy S25 Edge could have broader implications for Samsung's foldable devices. The company has been gradually reducing the thickness of its Galaxy Z Fold series, but competitors like HONOR with its Magic V3 and OPPO with the Find N5 have achieved unfolded thicknesses under 4.5mm. The miniaturized components developed for the Edge series—including thinner vibration motors, speakers, and potentially camera modules—could accelerate Samsung's progress in creating slimmer foldables.
Comparison with competitors:
- HONOR Magic V3: Under 4.5mm when unfolded
- OPPO Find N5: Under 4.5mm when unfolded
- Galaxy Z Fold series: Thicker than competitors when unfolded
Future Refinements
As Samsung looks toward the Galaxy S26 Edge, addressing consumer concerns will be crucial. The company is reportedly already working on the next-generation Edge model, with battery life likely to be a key focus area for improvement. Whether Samsung can maintain the ultra-thin profile while addressing these limitations will determine if the Edge concept becomes a permanent fixture in their flagship lineup or remains an experimental branch.
Market Performance and Consumer Response
The ultimate fate of the Edge series will depend on market performance over the coming months. While initial reactions have been mixed, Samsung appears confident enough in the concept to continue development. The company's willingness to potentially replace an established product line suggests internal data may show stronger consumer interest or higher profit margins than public reception would indicate.