Samsung Galaxy S26: What We Know So Far
Image: Luke Baker / Foundry
Galaxy S26: In Summary
- Samsung’s upcoming flagship smartphone series
- Expected launch in early 2026
- Possible replacement of regular model by Pro, and Plus by Edge
- Significant camera upgrades rumored
When it comes to flagship smartphones, Samsung is quick to release its latest models at the beginning of each year. The Galaxy S25 series made its debut in January 2025, comprising the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, followed by the Galaxy S25 Edge later in May. The tech community is now eager to see what Samsung has in store for its next flagship series—the Galaxy S26 series.
Latest Galaxy S26 Rumors
Rumors indicate that Samsung may not release a standard S26 model but instead replace it with the S26 Pro. The camera features for the S26 Ultra are expected to have a larger bump and improved specifications. Additionally, there’s been speculation about the battery capacity of the Galaxy S26 Edge.
When Will the Samsung Galaxy S26 Be Released?
- Expected announcement: January 2026
- Likely to go on sale shortly after the announcement
- Three models anticipated, two of which may differ from the Galaxy S25 lineup
Assuming Samsung maintains its typical release pattern, the Galaxy S26 series should launch in early 2026, likely around January or February. The S series has consistently debuted at the start of each year, and this trend is expected to continue. For reference, previous S series releases include:
- Galaxy S25 – January 2025
- Galaxy S24 – January 2024
- Galaxy S23 – February 2023
- Galaxy S22 – February 2022
Possible changes may include the discontinuation of the standard Galaxy S model, replaced by an ‘S26 Pro’ version and the potential introduction of a Galaxy S26 Edge model instead of the S26+.
How Much Will the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Cost?
- Expected starting price: around £799/$799
- No specific pricing rumors yet
While exact pricing remains speculative, an increase over the S25’s pricing is plausible. Rising component costs and inflation may influence this increase, although prices could stay the same. For reference, the Galaxy S25 lineup’s costs include:
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
What Specs and Features Will the Samsung Galaxy S26 Have?
- Expected design similar to Galaxy S25 series
- Potential return of Exynos chips
- Enhanced Ultra model features potentially including a 200MP periscope camera and silicon-carbon battery
Design
The Galaxy S26 Edge is rumored to replace the Plus line, making significant strides toward being the slimmest phone currently available. It is slated to be even thinner than the original S25 Edge.
Display
The display sizes may increase across the S26 models, with the Pro featuring a 6.27-inch display and the Ultra boasting a 6.89-inch display. An advanced anti-reflective glass is also expected for the high-end model.
Performance
Samsung might return to using its own Exynos 2600 chips in all models of the Galaxy S26 range, providing a significant performance upgrade. Initial test results suggest a higher performance level than the current Snapdragon options.
Cameras
The S26 Ultra is rumored to retain the same 200MP sensor but may see improvements in aperture for low-light performance. There may also be enhancements to the telephoto lenses.
Battery & Charging
The S26 series might introduce silicon-carbon battery technology, potentially increasing energy density. The S26 Ultra may feature a 5000mAh battery with faster charging capabilities.
Software
The S26 series will likely ship with Android 16 along with Samsung’s One UI 8.5, expected to provide impressive new features for users, including possible enhancements in virtual assistants.
This post will be updated as new information arises about the highly anticipated Galaxy S26 series. For further insights, check out our guide on the best phones you can buy to see what the Galaxy S26 series will be up against.
