The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is slated for a late‑February 2026 launch, with three models—S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra—expected to hit stores shortly after. All variants will feature the new Exynos 2400 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, upgraded cameras, larger batteries, and pricing that starts around $999. The devices will also run Android 16 with One UI 8, offering enhanced AI‑driven features.
Launch Timeline
Samsung plans to unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup in late February 2026, with shipments beginning within weeks of the event.
Model Lineup
The series will consist of three distinct models:
- Galaxy S26 – base model
- Galaxy S26 Plus – mid‑range flagship
- Galaxy S26 Ultra – premium flagship
Design & Color Options
All three phones retain the flat, matte back glass introduced with the S24 series and feature an aluminum frame for added durability without extra weight.
- Galaxy S26: Phantom Black, Midnight Blue, Aurora Green
- Galaxy S26 Plus: adds Sunset Orange
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: Titanium Silver, Mystic Purple
Camera Upgrades
Camera performance receives a significant boost across the lineup:
- S26 Ultra – 200 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultra‑wide, 10 MP periscope telephoto (10× optical zoom)
- S26 Plus – 108 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultra‑wide, 3× optical zoom telephoto
- S26 – 50 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultra‑wide
All models will leverage advanced computational photography and AI‑enhanced imaging modes.
Processor, Memory & Battery
Chipset options differ by region:
- Global models: Samsung Exynos 2400
- U.S. models: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Memory and battery capacities are projected as follows:
- S26 – 12 GB RAM, 4,800 mAh battery
- S26 Plus – 12‑14 GB RAM, 5,000 mAh battery
- S26 Ultra – up to 16 GB RAM, 5,200 mAh battery
All devices support 45 W wired fast charging and 15 W wireless charging.
Pricing Overview
- Galaxy S26 – starting around $999
- Galaxy S26 Plus – around $1,199
- Galaxy S26 Ultra – expected to start above $1,300
Market Impact
Launching in late February positions the S26 series ahead of Apple’s typical September release, giving Samsung a longer sales window in the premium segment. The streamlined three‑model lineup reduces inventory complexity and focuses consumer attention on the high‑end Ultra, which aims to justify its premium price with a 200 MP sensor and periscope zoom.
Key Watch Points
- Official Pricing Confirmation – final price tags will be revealed in Samsung’s press materials.
- Software Features – One UI 8’s new AI‑driven camera modes and deeper Galaxy ecosystem integration.
- Supply‑Chain Signals – component orders for Exynos 2400 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 will indicate production volumes and regional availability.
