Samsung Launches Ultra-Thin Galaxy S25 Edge Amid Rumors of Apple’s iPhone ‘Air’
Key Points
- Samsung unveils the Galaxy S25 Edge, measuring just 5.8mm thin and weighing 163 grams—one of the slimmest smartphones available.
- The device is priced from $1,099 and will be available for purchase starting May 30.
- The launch follows speculation that Apple is preparing to introduce a slimmed-down iPhone, reportedly named the iPhone 17 Air.
Samsung has launched a new variant of its flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S25 Edge, marking a bold move to maintain its momentum in the premium smartphone market. The S25 Edge is distinguished by its incredibly thin profile—just 5.8 millimeters—and light frame, weighing 163 grams. According to F.M.I.E sources, this places it among the thinnest smartphones currently on the market.
The launch, priced starting at $1,099, comes at an unusual time—just four months after Samsung’s January flagship S25 series reveal. Traditionally, Samsung reserves major device launches for the middle of the year, particularly for its foldable lineup. This strategic shift suggests the company is aiming to capitalize on the S25’s strong sales performance and preempt growing competition.
Riding the Wave of Strong Sales
In Q1 2025, Samsung’s mobile division reported a significant boost in both revenue and profit, driven by the success of the S25 series. However, Daniel Araujo, vice president of Samsung’s mobile division, cautioned during the company’s recent earnings call that global smartphone demand may taper off in Q2 due to seasonal trends and tariff-related uncertainties.
While the U.S. had implemented “reciprocal” tariffs in April, they were temporarily paused. Fortunately for tech companies, smartphones and semiconductors were exempted. Simultaneously, a recent U.S.-China agreement to suspend most tariffs provided additional breathing room for global electronics brands.
According to Araujo, the new S25 Edge is intended to “sustain flagship-centric sales,” reinforcing Samsung’s strategy of reinforcing its premium portfolio in a volatile global market.
Competing for Slim Supremacy
The move also comes as Apple is rumored to be preparing its own ultra-slim device—the iPhone 17 Air—expected to debut in September. Sources tell F.M.I.E that the Cupertino tech giant is aiming to reimagine the iPhone with a sleeker design, intensifying competition in the premium space.
Industry analysts say the thin-phone trend is gaining traction among consumers looking for high-end performance in a lighter, more portable form. The S25 Edge, which features a 6.7-inch display (matching the Galaxy S25+), incorporates Samsung’s latest AI tools and a dual-camera system.
“Thin is most definitely in for the second half of 2025,” said Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, speaking to F.M.I.E. “Samsung is the first out the gate with a slim redesign, but Apple and Chinese brands like Honor and Xiaomi won’t be far behind.”
Wood added that Samsung’s timing may be a strategic counter to mounting buzz around Apple’s upcoming thin iPhone model: “It’s hard to believe this isn’t a pre-emptive move in response to the growing speculation around Apple’s plans.”
With the Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung seems eager to stay one step ahead—redefining its design language while asserting dominance in the flagship smartphone race.