A bombshell GSMA IMEI database leak hot on the heels of Samsung’s latest unfolding extravaganza, however, now seems to indicate that the Galaxy S26 series that could potentially end the long-time Plus model as part of the three-fold crown in Samsung’s 2026 flagship trio. The three model numbers discovered – SM-S942 (Galaxy S26), SM-S947 (Galaxy S26 Edge) and SM-S948 (Galaxy S26 Ultra), interestingly leaves out the anticipated Plus version (credited to SM-S946).
This strategy would hint at Samsung possibly shifting toward a more aesthetically appealing design-focused mid-tier. The Galaxy S26 Edge, which has model number SM-S947, seems to be in place to take over the performance flagship duties from the Plus model. In stark contrast to the late-to-the-party Galaxy S25 Edge, the three Galaxy S26 Edge, base, and Ultra variants are apparently on track for a simultaneous January 2026 release, which hints at perfect product timing.
The move from Galaxy S25 base (SM-S931) to Galaxy S26 base (SM-S942) instead of the SM-S941 suggests there will be a considerable internal upgrade. More common characteristics should make their way to the standard model that were agrer for the Plus variant, and the Galaxy S26 Edge will establish itself as something special with better ergonomics and possibly curved screen technology. This then would sit the Galaxy S26 Edge as the stylish, performance- balanced centrepiece.
Ditching the Galaxy S26 Plus and going all in on the Galaxy S26 Edge is a ballsy move. The success of this Galaxy S26 Edge pivot depends on if it can retain the Plus’s soul – top-end specs in a manageable size – while packing in eye-catching edge display features at an attractive price. For industry watchers are quick to point out that the Galaxy S26 Edge model number (SM-S947) actually fills the space reserved for a Plus (SM-S946) leaving little doubt as to its intended purpose.
Samsung hasn’t acknowledged these alterations but the GSMA listing offers solid early evidence that they exist. That’s a big hole during a time in which smartphone companies tend to release Plus models, and the lack of one here seems to suggest the Galaxy S26 Edge is the phone that would’ve borne the Plus number. Should it be real, the Galaxy S26 Edge would round off a new-look flagship trio: Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Bottom line: The Galaxy S26 Edge is shaping up to be the successor to Samsung’s mid-flagship throne. It will all come down to execution on whether this strategy for the Galaxy S26 Edge proves to gel, but according to the leaked model data it could certainly be a clear menu of evolution. Perhaps we’re seeing the end of the Galaxy S Plus era and the start of the Galaxy S26 Edge.
