Last updated on December 6, 2025
Back in 2021, the tech world was buzzing with speculation about Samsung’s smartphone lineup. Many wondered if the then-upcoming Galaxy S21 FE would somehow carry on the spirit of the beloved Note 20 series.
This particular Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor sparked many conversations among enthusiasts and industry watchers alike.
Now, as we look back from 2025, it’s fascinating to revisit those early discussions. This article provides a retrospective analysis of how that initial speculation unfolded over the years.
We will explore what the S21 FE actually delivered and its broader implications for Samsung’s product strategy since 2021, especially concerning the Note series legacy.
Key Takeaways: The S21 FE and the Note Legacy
This section provides quick facts about the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE and its connection to the beloved Note series. It offers a concise summary, allowing you to grasp the main conclusions right away.
We will look at how the initial speculation about the S21 FE unfolded over time.
Back in 2021, there was quite a bit of talk that the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE might serve as a Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor.
This speculation arose because Samsung did not release a new Galaxy Note model that year. Initial Galaxy S21 sales were also reportedly weaker than expected. Many wondered if the S21 FE would fill the gap left by the absence of a traditional Note device.
However, the S21 FE ultimately did not truly take on the Note’s core identity. A major reason for this was its lack of S Pen support, which has always been a defining feature of the Note series.
While it offered a solid smartphone experience, it didn’t provide the stylus-driven productivity that Note users expected.
Instead, the true Samsung S Ultra Note replacement emerged with the Galaxy S21 Ultra, which introduced S Pen compatibility, albeit without an integrated slot. The Galaxy S22 Ultra, and subsequent Ultra models, fully embraced the Note legacy by integrating the S Pen directly into the phone’s body.
These Ultra devices effectively merged the best features of both the S and Note series into a single, powerful flagship line.
S21 FE Note Successor Summary
To give you a clearer picture of how the S21 FE stacked up against the Note legacy, here’s a quick comparison.
| Feature | Galaxy S21 FE | Galaxy S21 Ultra / S22 Ultra (and later) | Original Note Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| S Pen Support | No | Yes (S21 Ultra external, S22 Ultra integrated) | Yes (integrated) |
| Note Legacy Role | Rumored temporary stand-in | True successor/replacement | Original productivity flagship |
| Product Strategy | Budget-friendly S-series variant | Flagship combining S and Note features | Premium productivity flagship |
The 2021 Speculation: Why the S21 FE Was Rumored as a Note 20 Successor
In 2021, the tech world was buzzing with speculation about the future of Samsung’s Galaxy Note series. With no new Note device announced that year, many wondered if Samsung was phasing out its beloved productivity line.
This uncertainty created a vacuum. The Galaxy S21 FE, with its slightly more premium features compared to the standard S21, was often discussed as a potential stand-in.
The Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor gained traction as fans looked for a device that could offer some of the Note’s signature capabilities.
Several factors fueled these rumors. Samsung had already begun integrating S Pen support into its foldable devices, like the Galaxy Z Fold 3, which was released in August 2021. This move suggested a potential shift in Samsung’s strategy, moving the stylus experience to a different form factor.
Simultaneously, the Galaxy S21 FE was positioned as a more affordable version of the S21 flagship. It often featured a display size and overall design language that felt familiar to Note users.
It was seen by some as a way for Samsung to offer a taste of the Note experience without committing to a full-fledged device that year.
A key moment that amplified the speculation came from prominent leaker Evan Blass. In a tweet, Blass hinted at the possibility of the S21 FE taking on a role similar to a Note device, further stoking the fires of the Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 rumors 2021.
This wasn’t necessarily a definitive statement that the S21 FE *was* the Note 20’s successor. Rather, it suggested it might fill a similar niche in the market for that year.
The idea was that Samsung might be testing the waters with a more budget-friendly option that still offered some of the productivity features users associated with the Note series.
The absence of a dedicated Note device in 2021, coupled with Samsung’s increasing focus on foldables, led to widespread Samsung Note series discontinuation speculation. Many believed that the S21 FE, with its larger screen and slightly more refined build than the base S21, could be Samsung’s way of appeasing Note fans.
It was a period where the lines between Samsung’s flagship lines were blurring. The S21 FE seemed to occupy an interesting middle ground.
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 impact on the Note series’ future was also a significant part of the conversation, as it represented Samsung’s new direction for premium, feature-rich devices.
Galaxy S21 FE: Reality vs. Expectation (A 2025 Review)
When the Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor started circulating, many expected a device that would carry the torch of the beloved Note series. The idea was that the S21 FE would inherit some of those signature features, particularly the S Pen functionality that defined the Note line for years.
However, upon its release in January 2022, the reality of the Galaxy S21 FE was quite different from those early whispers.
What the S21 FE Actually Offered
The Galaxy S21 FE launched with specifications that placed it firmly within the “flagship-lite” category. It aimed to offer a premium experience at a more accessible price point. It boasted a vibrant display, a capable camera system, and the performance expected from a device in the S21 family.
Its actual features focused on delivering a solid all-around smartphone experience, rather than a direct successor to the Note’s productivity-focused niche.
One of the most significant points of divergence from the Note 20 continuation rumor was the complete absence of S Pen support. The integrated S Pen, with its silo and advanced features like air gestures and note-taking capabilities, was a hallmark of the Note series.
The S21 FE, while a competent device, did not include any hardware or software integration for the S Pen. This made it clear it was not designed as a Note replacement.
S21 FE Specs vs. Note 20 Expectations
To illustrate the difference, let’s look at a comparison of key aspects. While the S21 FE aimed for a balance of features and cost, the Note 20 series was built around pushing the boundaries of productivity and power.
The S21 FE’s specs were more aligned with its S21 siblings than with the unique offerings of the Note line.
| Feature | Galaxy S21 FE (Released Jan 2022) | Galaxy Note 20 Series (Released Aug 2020) |
|---|---|---|
| S Pen Support | No | Yes (Integrated) |
| Display Size (Typical) | 6.4 inches | 6.7 – 6.9 inches |
| Camera Focus | Versatile triple-lens system | Advanced camera with telephoto zoom capabilities |
| Target Audience | Users seeking flagship features at a lower cost | Power users and professionals prioritizing productivity |
The Galaxy S21 FE’s release date in early 2022 solidified its position as an accessible option. It appealed to those who wanted a taste of Samsung’s flagship experience without the premium price tag.
It was a device designed to appeal to a broader audience, rather than to fulfill the specific, productivity-driven needs that the Note series had cultivated over many years. The S21 FE specs comparison clearly shows it was an evolution of the S series, not a continuation of the Note legacy.
The True Evolution: How the Galaxy S Ultra Series Inherited the Note Legacy
While the Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor never really materialized, Samsung addressed the gap left by the Note series in a different way. The true spiritual successor to the Note wasn’t another “Fan Edition” phone. It was the Galaxy S Ultra line.
Starting with the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung integrated the S Pen directly into the phone’s design. This meant Note fans could still enjoy the stylus-based productivity they loved. The S22 Ultra also packed in powerful specs and a large screen, just like the Note phones of old.
Think of it this way: you’re a Note user who loved jotting down quick notes and sketching ideas. The S22 Ultra, and subsequent S Ultra models, let you do exactly that, without sacrificing the high-end camera and performance of the Galaxy S series.
It was a smart move by Samsung to consolidate their flagship offerings.
The S Ultra series became the home for all the best features. This included the S Pen, advanced camera tech, and top-tier performance. Samsung essentially rolled the Note’s strengths into their existing premium line.
Samsung’s Strategic Shift: Consolidating Flagship Lines
Samsung made a significant move by discontinuing the Galaxy Note series and integrating its features into the Galaxy S Ultra line. This was a strategic decision to streamline their premium offerings. By combining the best of both worlds, Samsung aimed to create a more focused and powerful flagship portfolio.
The decision to discontinue the Note series wasn’t taken lightly. The Note series was known for its larger screen and S Pen functionality. Consolidating these features into the S Ultra line allowed Samsung to cater to users who wanted both power and productivity in a single device.
This consolidation offered several benefits for Samsung. It simplified their product line, making it easier for consumers to choose the right phone. It also allowed Samsung to focus their resources on a smaller number of flagship devices, potentially leading to better innovation and support.
Imagine you’re someone who loved the Note for its S Pen. Now, instead of choosing between the S and Note lines, you can get the latest S Ultra with all the features you loved from the Note, plus the newest camera and performance upgrades. It’s a win-win!
Of course, there were also challenges with this consolidation. Some loyal Note users were disappointed to see the dedicated series disappear. Samsung had to ensure that the S Ultra line truly captured the essence of the Note experience to keep these users happy.
Ultimately, the strategic shift away from a dedicated Note series proved to be a smart move for Samsung. It streamlined their product line and allowed them to focus on delivering the best possible features in their flagship S Ultra devices.
This strategic shift reflects the ever-evolving nature of the smartphone market and Samsung’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve.
Common Misconceptions and Lingering Questions
When the Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor first surfaced, it led to some understandable confusion. Many people wondered, “Is the S21 FE a Note phone in disguise? ” and “What are Samsung’s plans for S Pen support?
” This section aims to clear up these lingering questions.
Is the S21 FE a Note Phone?
No, the Galaxy S21 FE is not a direct replacement for the Note series. It doesn’t have a built-in S Pen like the Note phones did. Instead, it’s designed as a more affordable version of the flagship S21, focusing on essential features and performance.
Galaxy Note Replacement Confusion
The discontinuation of the Note series left a gap for users who loved the S Pen. Samsung addressed this by adding S Pen support to other devices, primarily the S Ultra line.
This meant that while the S21 FE wasn’t a Note, those wanting a similar experience with the S Pen could look to the S21 Ultra and later models.
Samsung S Pen Phone Options
If you’re after a Samsung phone with S Pen capabilities, you have options beyond the old Note models. The Galaxy S Ultra series continues to offer S Pen support, integrating the functionality that Note users appreciated.
For example, if you really want that S Pen experience, a pre-owned S21 Ultra might be a good choice.
It’s natural to have questions when looking back at Samsung’s smartphone lineup, especially concerning the much-loved Note series and its perceived successors. Let’s clear up some common queries about the Galaxy S21 FE and the Note’s legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Did the Galaxy S21 FE support the S Pen?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE did not support the S Pen. While some rumors suggested it might fill a gap left by the Note series, the S21 FE lacked the necessary digitizer in its display for S Pen functionality.
If you wanted S Pen support in the S21 generation, you needed to look at the Galaxy S21 Ultra. This was the first S series phone to offer S Pen compatibility, though its S Pen was an optional accessory and did not have a built-in slot.
Why did Samsung discontinue the Galaxy Note series?
Samsung discontinued the Galaxy Note series for several reasons, including a shift in market trends and a desire to streamline its flagship offerings. The unique features of the Note, like large screens and high-end hardware, became common across many smartphones, including Samsung’s own Galaxy S series.
Additionally, Samsung began to focus more on its foldable phones, like the Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold, which they saw as the future of mobile innovation. The global chip shortage in 2021 also played a role in the decision to not launch a Galaxy Note 21.
The Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor emerged partly because of the absence of a Note 21, leading some to speculate the FE model might step in.
Has the Note series truly returned with the Galaxy S Ultra models?
In a way, yes, the spirit of the Note series lives on strongly in the Galaxy S Ultra models.
Starting with the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung integrated the S Pen and its dedicated slot directly into the device. This effectively merged the best features of the Note into the S series’ premium tier.
This move allowed Samsung to offer the beloved S Pen experience to Note fans while simplifying its flagship lineup. The Galaxy S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra have continued this trend, offering advanced S Pen features and a design reminiscent of the classic Note.
What S Pen features are available on the latest Galaxy S Ultra phones?
The S Pen on recent Galaxy S Ultra phones, such as the S24 Ultra, offers a wide array of features that enhance productivity and creativity. These include Screen Off Memo for quick notes, Air Actions for remote control, and advanced handwriting-to-text conversion.
You can also use the S Pen for precise drawing and coloring, smart selection for screenshots, and even as a remote camera shutter. Newer models also include AI-powered features like auto-formatting, summarizing, and translation.
How does the Galaxy S21 FE compare to the Galaxy Note 20?
While the Galaxy S21 FE was newer, released in January 2022, compared to the Note 20 from August 2020, they offered different experiences. The S21 FE typically featured a newer processor (Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100) and a smoother 120Hz display, providing snappier performance and better software updates.
However, the Note 20 had a built-in S Pen, which the S21 FE lacked, and often a slightly larger display. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE | Samsung Galaxy Note 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | January 2022 | August 2020 |
| S Pen Support | No (supports universal styluses for basic touch) | Yes (Built-in) |
| Display Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Typical Processor | Snapdragon 888 / Exynos 2100 | Snapdragon 865+ / Exynos 990 |
| Software Updates | Longer support due to later release | Support ended around 2024 |
A Look Back at Samsung’s Evolving Vision
Looking back from 2025, it’s clear the initial buzz around the Galaxy S21 FE Note 20 continuation rumor was ultimately unfounded. While the S21 FE offered a compelling package for its price point, it never truly aimed to fill the void left by the beloved Note series.
Its design and feature set positioned it as a more accessible entry into the premium Galaxy S ecosystem.
The absence of integrated S Pen support was a significant differentiator, confirming it was not a direct successor to the Note’s productivity focus. Instead, the S21 FE served as a strong “Fan Edition” device, bringing flagship-like experiences to a wider audience.
This strategic move allowed Samsung to cater to different segments of the smartphone market effectively.
The true spiritual successor to the Galaxy Note series emerged in the Galaxy S Ultra lineup, beginning prominently with the S22 Ultra. These Ultra models embraced the S Pen, large displays, and advanced features that Note users cherished, consolidating Samsung’s premium offerings.
This integration simplified Samsung’s flagship strategy, offering a clear top-tier device for power users.
Samsung’s product strategy has successfully adapted to market shifts, focusing on innovation, an integrated ecosystem, and cutting-edge technologies like AI and 5G. By strategically evolving its lineup, Samsung demonstrated remarkable foresight and maintained its competitive edge in the dynamic smartphone market.
The company continues to push boundaries, ensuring its devices remain at the forefront of technological advancement.
