If you've been eagerly anticipating the release of Asus smartphones this year, there's disappointing news. Recent reports indicate that Asus has decided to suspend any new smartphone launches for 2026, although the company reassures fans that it is not abandoning the market entirely.
A Year of Silence for Asus
According to a new report from Taiwan, Asus has informed its telecom partners that it will not release any new Android devices in 2026. Generally, this time of year would be rife with teasers and leaks about the next ROG Phone or Zenfone, but silence has reigned instead. This pause will not affect software updates or warranty repairs for existing models, including the Zenfone 12 Ultra and ROG Phone 9.
The Implications of Asus's Decision
The absence of new releases means enthusiasts who appreciate the streamlined Android experience of the Zenfone 12 Ultra will have one less option to consider. It’s likely that competitors like RedMagic will seize this opportunity to capture market share. If you were looking forward to upgrading to an ROG Phone 10 or a Zenfone 13, you will need to either look elsewhere or stick with your current device for a while longer.
Share Your Thoughts
Is It Worth the Wait?
This development raises some concerns. In the fast-paced mobile tech arena, maintaining momentum is crucial. A year without new releases could lead consumers to forget about Asus. We’ve seen other brands struggle after similar moves, and I sincerely hope Asus is not heading down a path of decline. Nonetheless, if taking a hiatus allows Asus to return in 2027 with groundbreaking innovations, then a year’s wait might be worth it. For now, ROG fans will need to be patient.
