Asus has announced that it will not launch any new smartphones in 2026, potentially indicating a move away from the Android market. This confirmation came from Asus Chairman Jonney Shih during an event in Taiwan on January 16.
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Shih stated, "Asus will no longer add new mobile phone models in the future," but emphasized that the company will continue to provide software updates and warranty support for existing smartphone users.
This announcement aligns with a report from DigiTimes earlier this month indicating that Asus would not introduce new models in 2026. It remains uncertain whether this decision marks a complete exit from the smartphone space or a temporary hiatus, although Shih suggested a possible return without making any commitments.
Asus currently offers its Zenfone flagship line and the ROG gaming phone series, yet it has not released a new high-end device in nearly a year. The ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 8 are still listed on the Asus website, but they are out of stock in the US. Furthermore, Asus opted not to sell the 2025 Zenfone 12 Ultra in the region, leading to uncertainty in the niche gaming phone market. Competitor Redmagic has noted the rumors regarding Asus's exit with interest.
Shih also mentioned that Asus might reallocate its smartphone research and development teams to focus on AI initiatives, including smart glasses and robotics. He addressed the impact of rising memory prices on the tech industry, indicating that while price increases may be necessary, Asus will strive to manage them through innovative design and supply chain collaboration.