Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Edge Appear in IMEI Database Ahead of Launch
As Samsung gears up for the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7, the company already seems to be shifting attention to its next flagship lineup — the Galaxy S26 series. Recent leaks have hinted that Samsung might skip the Plus model this time around. Now, a fresh development provides further insight into what’s coming next.
According to reliable tipster @theonecid, both the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the new Galaxy S26 Edge have been spotted in the GSMA IMEI database, suggesting that Samsung is actively preparing for a January 2026 launch — in line with its typical flagship release cycle.
The listings reveal key model numbers:
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Galaxy S26 Edge: SM-S947U
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Galaxy S26 Ultra: SM-S948U (U.S. variant) and SM-S948N (South Korean variant)
These identifiers confirm Samsung’s regional rollout strategy, with the “U” denoting units destined for the U.S. market, and “N” for South Korea.
IMEI Database Hints at S26 Series Testing; Edge Branding Continues
This early appearance in the IMEI database strongly suggests internal testing is underway and could mean official teasers or announcements may arrive sooner than expected However, the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ have yet to surface in the IMEI database — which isn’t unusual. Samsung typically registers its high-end flagship variants first. The early listing of the Galaxy S26 Edge confirms that Samsung is continuing the Edge branding for another year, similar to the current Galaxy S25 lineup
Interestingly, both the Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Ultra have surfaced together in the IMEI database, which could indicate that Samsung plans to unveil the entire S26 lineup simultaneously. This approach may help streamline the launch and reduce confusion compared to previous staggered reveals.
There’s also speculation that Samsung might skip the Plus model this year, potentially replacing it with the new Edge variant to simplify the lineup.
This could be Samsung’s attempt to streamline the launch process, offering a clearer picture of the product tiers at once. In past years, staggered announcements and overlapping branding between the standard, Plus, and Ultra models sometimes caused confusion among consumers. A unified launch may help simplify the lineup and improve market clarity.the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Edge, offering key insights into Samsung’s possible product strategy this time around.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that both the Ultra and Edge variants appeared together in the IMEI listings. Typically, Samsung registers its top-tier models first — often starting with the Ultra — while the base and Plus models show up closer to launch. However, the simultaneous appearance of the Edge and Ultra suggests a more synchronized reveal for the Galaxy S26 lineup
Adding to the speculation is the possibility that Samsung may ditch the Galaxy S26+ (Plus) variant entirely. With the Edge branding now making a return — and appearing in listings as the SM-S947U — some industry insiders believe the Edge model could act as the mid-tier alternative between the base Galaxy S26 and the top-end S26 Ultra. This move would align with recent rumors pointing toward three core models instead of four.
At this point, Samsung has not officially confirmed any specifications, features, or lineup decisions regarding the S26 series. However, as the listings and leaks continue to gain momentum, more concrete details are expected to surface soon.
Stay tuned as we continue to track every update on the Galaxy S26 Edge, Ultra, and the full S26 family in the months leading up to launch.
As of now, Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed any details about the Galaxy S26 series. More information is expected to emerge in the coming weeks — so stay tuned for updates.
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