Asus Exits Android? Smartphone Future Uncertain in 2026

Asus has announced it will not release any new smartphone models starting in 2026, fueling speculation that the company may be exiting the Android market entirely. Chairman Jonney Shih confirmed this decision on January 16, stating that Asus will "no longer add new mobile phone models in the future." While Shih alluded to a potential future return to smartphones, no confirmation of Android devices was given, raising concerns about another major player leaving the ecosystem.

This move comes after a year without new high-end devices from Asus, whose product lines include the Zenfone and ROG series. The company assures current users that software updates and warranty support for existing smartphones will continue. However, the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 8 series are currently out of stock in the US, and Zenfone models are not being sold in the region, indicating a significant pullback.

The company may reallocate its smartphone research and development teams to focus on artificial intelligence projects, such as smart glasses or robotics. Asus also addressed the current industry-wide memory price hikes, noting potential increases but aiming to mitigate them through design and supply chain strategies. This news arrives as rival gaming phone manufacturer Redmagic celebrated rumors of Asus's potential departure.