Investing.com -- Samsung Electronics Co (F:SAMEq). is planning to introduce an ultrathin version of its Galaxy S25 phone in the first half of this year, stepping into a new category ahead of Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL). The Galaxy S25 Edge, as it is named, was previewed at the Samsung (KS:005930) Unpacked event in San Jose, California on Wednesday. The Edge model, part of the S25 lineup unveiled at the event, stands out with its remarkably slim profile.
The introduction of the Edge model signals a potential competition in the slim smartphone segment this year. Apple is also predicted to unveil an ultra-thin iPhone later this year, which would be one of its most significant design modifications in recent years. Apple traditionally discloses its new phones in September.
Samsung intends to commence sales of the Edge in the United States and other markets by mid-year, according to TM Roh, president of the mobile devices business, in an interview with Bloomberg News. The Edge will incorporate some of the technologies found in the new Ultra model but in a more compact design. Roh stated that customers are seeking the "best performance, the best camera features, the best AI," but they also desire a more distinctive form factor.
Samsung's aim is to integrate all the benefits of the S25 Ultra into a more compact form, according to Roh. For Apple, the slim model represents a latest effort to discover a new phone size that consumers will accept. In the past, Apple has launched a mini iPhone and a Plus model, but neither has been particularly successful. The Plus model will be replaced by the new thinner variant, which some are referring to as the iPhone Air, as reported by Bloomberg News. This will be the thinnest iPhone in the device’s history.
Roh explained that the Edge name was chosen to reflect both the slim design and the cutting-edge technology it will feature. The name also revives a brand Samsung used several years ago when it first introduced phones with curved-edge displays.
While Samsung has high hopes for the Edge, the company has not yet determined a price. However, Roh acknowledged that it will cost less than the starting price of $1,299 for the Ultra model. The goal, according to Roh, is to make the Edge more affordable and accessible to a larger customer base.
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