technologyneutral

Fewer Choices: Asus Leaves the Smartphone Game

TaiwanWednesday, January 28, 2026
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A Shift Towards AI

The smartphone landscape is evolving. Asus, a renowned tech company, has announced it will stop producing budget-friendly Android phones. This decision is part of a broader industry trend where companies are prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) over phone hardware.

Why Does This Matter?

  • Less Competition: Fewer companies making phones means reduced competition.
  • Higher Prices: With fewer options, prices may rise, impacting consumers seeking affordable devices.
  • Impact on Gamers: Asus' ROG phones, popular among mobile gamers, will no longer receive new models.

What Asus Said

At the company's year-end gala, Chairman Jonney Shih confirmed:

  • No new phone models will be introduced.
  • Existing Asus phones will still receive software updates and warranty support.
  • Asus is shifting focus to AI products, including robots and smart glasses.

The Dominance of Big Brands

The smartphone market is already dominated by a few giants:

  • Apple
  • Samsung
  • Google

With Asus exiting, consumers have even fewer choices, potentially leading to higher prices and less variety.

A Blow to Mobile Gamers

Asus' ROG phones were among the best for gaming. Their departure leaves fewer high-performance options for gamers.

The Future of Smartphones

The market is becoming increasingly dominated by a handful of brands. This isn't just due to consumer preference but also limited competition. Asus' exit is a clear sign of this trend.

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