Back in the day, when nearly the entire Android ecosystem (or community, as alternatives to 'camp') was following the iPhone X’s notch-screen trend, Samsung stood apart, preserving its unique design language. The company even took to social media to poke fun at the notch-screen design. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Multiple Android manufacturers are once again drawing inspiration from Apple, and even Samsung has joined the fray. Recently, leaked images of the Samsung S26 series surfaced online, revealing a rear camera module with a horizontal, large-matrix layout that bears a striking resemblance to the already-launched iPhone 17 Pro and the soon-to-be-released Xiaomi 17 Pro.

If we're being nitpicky, I’d argue that the S26 Edge leans more towards Xiaomi’s design. After all, while Apple sports a triple-camera setup on the back, Xiaomi also features a triple-camera arrangement but incorporates two lenses within the module, leaving a sizable area for a secondary screen. The S26 Edge has abandoned its originally minimalist design in favor of something reminiscent of both Apple and Xiaomi, yet the purpose behind this change remains unclear.

If smaller manufacturers opt for imitation, it can be chalked up to cost-cutting in design. However, given Samsung’s stature in the industry, adopting such a design raises questions about who truly leads the smartphone market. From the leaked renderings, a large empty space sits beside the dual cameras, with no interactive design elements visible. If the actual S26 Edge resembles this and lacks the secondary screen functionality of the Xiaomi 17 Pro, the design could be deemed rather unsuccessful and redundant.

Netizens have reacted with surprise. After all, Samsung’s design shift is somewhat of a self-inflicted blow. Regardless of the phone’s actual user experience, it’s an embarrassing move. Nevertheless, compared to Apple, Samsung still holds some advantages. The S26 Edge is rumored to be just 5.5mm thick, with an increased battery capacity of 4300mAh. While still relatively modest, it at least outperforms the iPhone Air and retains a dual-camera setup on the back.

However, judging by the sales performance of the S25 Edge thus far, many are skeptical about the S26 Edge’s prospects. Given Samsung’s current market share in China, it’s unlikely that this phone will make a significant impact. We’ll have to wait until the iPhone Air is released and domestic competitors follow suit to see if ultra-thin models will resonate with Chinese consumers. Some argue that Samsung has lost its identity, but personally, I believe it’s only natural for Samsung to follow market trends.

Others contend that the S26 Edge shouldn’t follow suit at all and that sticking to its original, simple design would be the most suitable approach. Furthermore, ultra-thin models inherently struggle with battery capacity. If they attempt to incorporate a secondary screen like Xiaomi, the strain on battery life would be unimaginable. Without a secondary screen, what’s the point of this design?

In light of this, the Xiaomi 17 Pro might emerge as the most recognizable Android phone in the coming year. What are your thoughts?