Samsung recently introduced three new Galaxy S21 models, and early reviews (including our review) were promising. However, good reviews do not spell out the whole story, as consumer demand is the most important factor behind a phone's success.

According to Korean publication The Elec, Samsung has reportedly lowered its shipment forecast for the Galaxy S21 series and is determining whether it needs to increase or decrease production.

Last year was a strange year for a number of reasons, and it appears that Samsung is being cautious regarding shipment expectations when it comes to this year's Galaxy S21 release. The first quarter of a phone's life cycle is the most critical in terms of sales. According to industry sources, the South Korean tech giant has lowered its shipment forecast from 35 million units for the S20 to 26 million units.

The Galaxy S21 lineup includes three models: the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus, and Galaxy S21 Ultra. Samsung estimates that 8 million Ultra units will be shipped, followed by 8 million Plus units, and 10 million regular S21 units. The drop in shipment estimates is likely due to the performance of the Galaxy S20 last year, when the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted sales.

It is worth noting that while one affects the other, shipment and sales volume estimates do not necessarily coincide. If this report is true, Samsung is merely playing it safe to avoid making too many Galaxy S21s. The pandemic is still ongoing, so that may also play a role in Samsung's decision.

Low shipment estimates may mean low initial sales, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the Galaxy S21 will sell poorly. Samsung is probably keeping a close eye on the market and will adjust production and supply accordingly.