Samsung Galaxy S26: A Comprehensive Overview
- Samsung is gearing up to launch its flagship Galaxy S26 series, expected to hit the market in early 2026
- The lineup may include three models, with the possibility of the Edge model replacing the Plus variant
- We anticipate the debut of Samsung’s One UI 8, built on the foundation of Android 16
When it comes to flagship smartphones, Samsung is known for its swift releases at the beginning of each year.
The Galaxy S25 series made its debut in January 2025, featuring three models: Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. The slimline Galaxy S25 Edge followed in May.
As we look ahead to the next generation of high-end handsets, expected to be named the Galaxy S26 series, let’s explore what we know so far about the potential release date, pricing, and key features.
Anticipated Release Date of the Samsung Galaxy S26
Key Points
- The Galaxy S26 series is likely to be unveiled in January 2026
- Expected to hit the shelves shortly after the official announcement
- Possibility of the S26 Edge model, while the S26+ may not be included
If Samsung follows its usual timeline, we can anticipate the launch of the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, possibly in January or February.
This aligns with the release patterns of previous S series flagships, with the exception of the new Edge model:
- Samsung Galaxy S25 – January 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S25+ – January 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – January 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge – May 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S24 – January 2024
- Samsung Galaxy S24+ – January 2024
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – January 2024
- Samsung Galaxy S23 – February 2023
- Samsung Galaxy S23+ – February 2023
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – February 2023
- Samsung Galaxy S22 – February 2022
- Samsung Galaxy S22+ – February 2022
- Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra – February 2022
The Galaxy S26 series might see the standard Galaxy S model phased out after the S25 series, leaving room for the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra in 2026.
Alternatively, we could witness the Galaxy S26+ being replaced by the Galaxy S26 Edge. Additionally, the S26 Ultra may be rebranded as the S26 Note, highlighting its integration with the S Pen. The S26+ could potentially be renamed as the S26 Pro, aligning with the trend of ‘Pro’ models in the market.
Sources: Ice Universe on X | The Elec | Yogesh Brar on X
Expected Pricing of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series
Key Points
- The Galaxy S26 series is likely to start at around £799/$799
- No specific pricing rumors available at this time
Pricing details for the Galaxy S26 series are speculative at this stage. However, a slight increase from the S25 series is expected.
This upward trend in pricing is influenced by factors such as escalating component costs, inflation, and the integration of advanced technologies.
Sources: Ice Universe on X | The Elec | Yogesh Brar on X
There is also the possibility that prices may remain unchanged, as seen with the Galaxy S25 series compared to the Galaxy S24 series:
Galaxy S25
- 128GB – £799/$799.99
- 256GB – £859/$859.99
Galaxy S25+
- 256GB – £999/$999.99
- 512GB – £1,099/$1,119.99
Galaxy S25 Ultra
- 256GB – £1,249/$1,299.99
- 512GB – £1,349/$1,419.99
- 1TB – £1,549/$1,659.99
Anticipated Specs and Features of the Samsung Galaxy S26
Key Points
- Similar design to the Galaxy S25 series is expected
- Possibility of a return to Exynos chipset in select markets
- S26 Ultra may feature a 200Mp periscope camera and silicon-carbon battery
Design
While specific design elements such as materials and color options remain undisclosed, the Galaxy S26 series is likely to maintain a similar aesthetic to its predecessor.
The titanium frame, currently exclusive to the Ultra and Edge models, may be extended to other variants as well.
It would be interesting to see the return of the Bluetooth S Pen from the Galaxy S24 Ultra, considering the less functional version introduced with the S25 Ultra.
Sources: The Elec
Display
The integration of Colour-filter-on-thin-film-encapsulation (CoE) technology in the S26 Ultra’s display could lead to a thinner, brighter, and more energy-efficient screen.
Details regarding display size, resolution, refresh rate, and advanced features like under-display cameras remain undisclosed.
Performance
Reports suggest that Samsung will likely prioritize the use of its Exynos processors in the S26 series, specifically the Exynos 2600.
It remains unclear if this shift will include North America, which has predominantly used Snapdragon chipsets. The performance of the Exynos 990 in the Galaxy S20 launch highlights the importance of a robust processor.
Specific details on processors, RAM configurations, and storage options are awaited.
Sources: Jukanlosreve on X | The Bell | The Financial News
Cameras
The S26 Ultra may boast a groundbreaking 200Mp periscope telephoto camera, a significant upgrade from the S25 Ultra’s 50Mp sensor.
Possibly featuring a variable aperture, the primary camera on the Galaxy S26 could adapt to varying lighting conditions for improved image quality.
Front-facing camera advancements like the UDC (Under Display Camera) may enhance the selfie experience, although challenges remain in achieving high-quality results.
Details on camera systems for other S26 models, including sensor sizes and advanced photography features, are yet to be revealed.
Sources: PandaFlash on X | Ice Universe on Weibo | kro (Good bye) on X | PandaFlash on X (2) | Lanzuk on Naver
Battery & Charging
The introduction of silicon-carbon battery technology in the S26 series could lead to higher battery capacities and improved energy density.
Potential benefits include extended battery life and faster charging speeds. The S26 Ultra may witness a battery capacity increase, possibly surpassing 5500mAh.
Details on battery specifications for other S26 models are currently unavailable.
Sources: Ice Universe on Weibo | Jukanlosreve on X | The Financial News | PandaFlash on X
Software
The S26 series is anticipated to launch with Android 16 as the operating system, overlaid with Samsung’s custom user interface, likely named One UI 8.
Expect additional Galaxy AI features and enhancements, although specific details are yet to be disclosed.
Samsung’s commitment to seven years of OS and security updates for all Galaxy S26 models is expected to continue.
Sources: The Elec
That wraps up our overview of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, check out our guide to the best smartphones on the market to see how the Galaxy S26 series stacks up.