No Galaxy Note in 2021: Samsung Focuses on S Pen for Foldables

Samsung's August 11 Unpacked Event: What to Expect

Last week, Samsung distributed invitations to its Unpacked event scheduled for August 11th. The event is anticipated to be significant, even by Samsung's typically high standards.

However, the event may be equally noteworthy for what it doesn't reveal. Numerous rumors suggest Samsung will forgo its customary Galaxy Note update this year.

The Future of the Galaxy Note

In a recent blog post, TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung, stated, “Rather than releasing a new Galaxy Note at this time, we will expand beloved Note features to a wider range of Samsung Galaxy devices.”

The precise implications of this statement for the future of Samsung’s Galaxy Note line remain unclear. Will this be a temporary pause, or a permanent discontinuation of the phablet?

Samsung provided TechCrunch with the following clarification: “There will be no launch of new Galaxy Note devices in 2021. Samsung intends to continue evolving the Note experience and integrating popular productivity and creative features, including the S Pen, throughout the Galaxy ecosystem.”

Supply Chain Issues and Potential Sunset

Initial reports attributed the absence of a new Note to ongoing supply chain disruptions experienced throughout 2020 and 2021.

However, subsequent speculation has led many to believe Samsung might be phasing out the Galaxy Note series, coinciding with its 10th anniversary.

Could it be that the pioneering phablet has reached the end of its lifecycle, particularly as other Samsung flagship devices increase in size and incorporate its key features?

Note Features Expanding to Other Devices

It is evident that some of the devices unveiled on August 11th will emulate the Galaxy S21 by incorporating Note-like functionalities, including S Pen support.

This likely includes the Galaxy Z Fold, aligning with earlier rumors that the foldable device would be the next to bridge the gap between itself and the Note.

This integration will likely necessitate a more robust display for the foldable device.

Recent leaks indicate a carrying case featuring a pen holster, rather than integrating a dedicated slot into the Fold’s complex design.

Foldable Phones and the New Galaxy Watch

“We invite you to join us as we introduce our next Galaxy Z family and unveil foldable innovations – including the first S Pen specifically engineered for foldable phones,” Roh announced.

The executive also promised a “more refined style, built with more durable and robust materials” for the new Galaxy Z Flip, alongside the confirmation of a new Z Fold.

Finally, a mention of One UI Watch suggests the latest Galaxy Watch will also be showcased at the upcoming Unpacked event.