Samsung unveils sleek S25 Edge while Apple allegedly gears up for the iPhone ‘Air’ release.
Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Edge, a thinner version of its flagship smartphone.
Arjun Kharpal | CNBC
Samsung on Tuesday unveiled a slim version of its flagship smartphone in an unusually timed launch as it aims to maintain momentum in its mobile division amid an uncertain consumer backdrop and U.S. tariff policy.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is just 5.8 millimeters thin and weighs 163 grams, making it one of the thinnest smartphones available.
Samsung indicated that the device starts at $1,099 and will be available for purchase on May 30.
This launch comes just under four months after Samsung’s annual flagship phone unveiling for the S25 series. It is atypical for Samsung to introduce a high-end device so soon after the January event, as the usual timeline generally places the unveiling of its latest foldable phones in the middle of the year.
The timing emphasizes Samsung’s strategy to capitalize on the S25 range’s success, especially as competition from Chinese brands rises and macroeconomic conditions remain unpredictable.
Last month, Samsung reported a significant increase in revenue and profit in the first quarter due to strong sales of its S25 series. However, Daniel Araujo, vice president at Samsung’s mobile division, cautioned on an earnings call that smartphone demand is expected to decline in the second quarter due to “seasonality trends,” and forecasts may need to be “adjusted” further because of global tariff policies.
U.S. tariffs implemented in April were briefly paused, providing some relief for companies like Samsung and Apple. Recent agreements between the U.S. and China have also seen a suspension of most tariffs on both sides.
Araujo mentioned that the S25 Edge could help “sustain flagship-centric sales,” which highlights the reasoning behind the current launch timing.
Thinner smartphones have become a focal point for manufacturers seeking to attract consumers who want a flagship experience without the bulk of traditional devices. The Galaxy S25 Edge features a 6.7-inch display, the same size as the Galaxy S25+, but is lighter and more streamlined.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge was showcased during a briefing at the Samsung KX store in London, U.K.
The phone includes a dual-camera system and integrates Samsung’s latest AI features.
“For the second half of 2025, ‘thin is most definitely in’,” stated Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight.
Samsung is leading the way with its slim design, while Apple is expected to follow with its own thin device launch in September, and rising Chinese brands like Honor and Xiaomi are not far behind.
Samsung may be positioning itself ahead of Apple, which is rumored to be developing a slim version called the iPhone 17 Air, as stated in earlier reports this year.
“It is hard to believe this is not a pre-emptive strike following the widespread speculation that Apple will have a thin iPhone in its next lineup,” Wood added.
