The Note Edge wasn't mainstream either.. but it had implications on the future.

From the recent launch of the Galaxy Note Edge, it’s apparent that Samsung has been trying to stand out from the competition. Though we had our reservations about the new form factor, the next Samsung flagship could launch with an “Edge” variant as well.

As reported by SamMobile, Samsung is rumored to launch a different form factor along the Galaxy S6 next year. Much like the Note line this year, the Galaxy S6 is said to launch in two variants: one with a plain slab of glass like we’re used to, and one with a curved-edge display. We’re unsure if the screen will have the same curve on the right edge like we saw at the Note Edge, but we’re hoping Samsung improves on the form factor, as the curved screen device had some problems of its own.

Left-handed use was one of the problems we ran into with the Note Edge, as was the form factor in general. Overall, the phone felt interesting, weird, but very tough to get used to. It’s a different idea that we don’t necessarily want to see go away, but it does need some work if anyone is going to buy it. Samsung has a huge opportunity to rethink software and hardware alike with the Galaxy S6 Edge, and make it a truly innovative package.

If the software improves, especially on the Edge display, it could change the way we think of smartphones. Imagine expanded uses for the curve that go beyond the current feature set, as well as better software that would be less prone to accidental bumps and touches. Additionally, if the in-hand feel could be improved in any way, that would also be a huge step forward.

Like with the Note and Note Edge, Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S6 in full force, while only making a limited number of the Edge variant. At least at its launch, Samsung announced limited availability of the Note Edge, though now it’s launching on all U.S. carriers. With Samsung pushing forward the Note Edge’s availability into more markets we assume one of two things: either there’s a real demand for curved devices, or Samsung is merely attempting to get the idea out there and into the hands of more consumers, in hopes it will take off.

With the Samsung Galaxy S5 selling 40% fewer units as they wanted it to, Samsung will likely be doing everything in its power to make sure we don’t see a repeat of this situation. Creating a GS6 Edge variant could certainly fit well into the company’s plans. After all the Galaxy S6, known internally as “Project Zero“, is said to be a complete reimagining of what we should expect from the Galaxy S line.

How do you feel about Samsung continuing its efforts with curved-screen technology? Do you think you’d buy an Edge device if it came in an S6 package?