If you were hoping to upgrade to a new Asus Zenfone or ROG Phone this year, you might have to wait a while. New reports from Taiwan suggest that the tech giant is planning to skip 2026 entirely when it comes to releasing new smartphone models.
According to industry sources cited by DigiTimes, Asus will not launch any new devices for its popular Zenfone or gaming-centric ROG lineups this year.
Retailers Stopping Orders
The report indicates that this decision is already having real-world effects in Asus’s home market. Distributors and mobile retailers in Taiwan are reportedly no longer able to order new stock of Asus handsets.
This marks a significant pause for the company. The last major refresh occurred back in November 2024 with the high-end ROG Phone 9 series, followed by a more affordable “FE” model in February 2025. Since then, the pipeline has gone quiet.
Existing Phones Are Safe
If you already own an Asus device, there is no need to panic. The report emphasizes that while new hardware might be on hold, support is not.
Asus is reportedly committed to maintaining full after-sales service. This includes honoring warranties, offering repairs, and most importantly, pushing out software updates. Your current phone won’t suddenly become obsolete or unsafe; there simply won’t be a shiny new successor to replace it with anytime soon.
Market Impact & Context
Asus has not officially commented on why it might be hitting the brakes, nor has it clarified if this is a permanent exit or just a temporary gap year.
However, the industry context offers a likely explanation. Smartphone manufacturers are currently battling rising component costs, which makes building high-spec phones expensive. By taking a year off, Asus avoids releasing a pricey device into a difficult market.
What Comes Next
For now, the ROG Phone 9 Pro remains the brand’s flagship. With its top-tier screen and massive battery, it is still powerful enough to handle 2026 standards. We expect Asus to issue an official statement clarifying the future of its mobile division soon.
