Asus: no new Zenfone or ROG Phone in 2026: these alternatives you have
Asus reportedly will not release any new phones in 2026, it has informed various sales channels. Asus reassures existing users that they can still count on support and software updates.
Asus serves a specific niché in the smartphone world. On the one hand, with the Zenfone line, it brought a sub 6-inch smartphone to the market as few yet, and with the ROG Phones Asus served the mobile gamers among us. No new model of the Zenfone had been released for several years, but the ROG Phone could count on a new model every year.
At least the successor to the ROG Phone 9 will not be coming in 2026, the company reveals to Digitimes Asia. Asus never secured a large market share. The reason for pausing lies in this small market share but the increased cost of DRAM may also have played a part in this decision.
What does this mean for updates and warranty?
Interestingly, the company does keep its mobile phone division. Those are at least concerned with product support such as future software updates and warranty. Asus therefore reassures existing users that they will not be affected by this decision.
Alternatives for Asus phones
In 2025, Asus released three more devices for enthusiasts: the premium Zenfone 12 Ultra and the gaming ROG Phone 9 and 9 Pro. These models were loved by a select group of fans and tech enthusiasts. Now that sales are ending, these unique smartphones are in danger of becoming collectors' items. Fortunately, though, with the security of updates, as Asus continues to support the software as usual.
Those looking for a gaming phone in the year 2026 should look to Redmagic. For now, this sister company of Nubia continues to come up with new innovative models every year including with liquid cooling. For high-end alternatives to Zenfone, the selection is greater, check out all the alternatives on the high-end phones list.
