Samsung’s Galaxy S series has dominated the Android flagship market for years, and the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 is shaping up to be a major release in early 2026. Industry reports indicate Samsung will stick to its usual schedule of an Unpacked event in late February, likely unveiling the Galaxy S26 series around February 25, 2026. The lineup is expected to include three models – the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra – with any “Edge” variant coming later or on a different schedule. Based on the latest leaks and insider reports, this article compiles all known information about the Galaxy S26’s design, hardware, camera systems, battery and charging, pricing, and launch timeline. We also highlight predictions for the new Galaxy S26 Ultra and Samsung’s AI-driven software features. Every key point below references trusted sources to give you the most reliable picture of Samsung’s next flagship.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Release Date & Launch
Samsung traditionally unveils its new Galaxy S phones in Q1 of each year, and 2026 looks no different. Multiple sources now point to a Galaxy S26 series announcement on February 25, 2026, with the phones expected to hit stores by mid-March 2026. NotebookCheck reports that a leaked Samsung teaser poster confirms an Unpacked event on Feb 25, 2026. This matches TechRadar’s prediction, which noted that “current leaks [are] suggesting a February 25 announcement” for the S26 lineup. Similarly, Android Central’s coverage of leaked information indicates that “rumors and leaks continue pointing to Feb. 25, 2026 as the reveal” for the Galaxy S26 series. According to SamMobile, Samsung is expected to unveil the S26 series in late February and begin sales in the second week of March 2026. In short, the Galaxy S26 launch window should mirror Samsung’s past launches: a late-Feb Unpacked event followed by a March release.
All signs suggest the Galaxy S26 series will again include a standard model, a Plus model, and an Ultra model, much like the previous generations. Reports confirm that Samsung intends to continue the three-model lineup (S26, S26+, S26 Ultra), with any S26 Edge model likely postponed to later in the year. Specifically, Android Central notes that Samsung “is set to retain a trio of models — the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra” and that we may have to wait to see if a Galaxy S26 Edge is launched later. No official confirmation has come from Samsung yet, but the leak consensus is clear: expect three Galaxy S26 phones to debut in Q1 2026.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Design & Display
One of the most discussed aspects of the Galaxy S26 leaks is the design. From leaked case renders and posters, it appears Samsung is refreshing the S26’s look only modestly – focusing on sleeker profiles and camera modules rather than a complete overhaul. A recent SamMobile report shared images of UAG-branded cases for the Galaxy S26 lineup, revealing the first clear look at the phones’ silhouettes. According to these leaks, all S26 models have a new vertical, pill-shaped camera island on the back. This is a departure from the ringed individual camera bumps on the Galaxy S25, and is more reminiscent of the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s camera design. The case leaks show the Galaxy S26 (standard) with three rear cameras arranged vertically on a rounded rectangle, and a circular metal ring in the center of the back for Qi2 magnetic charging. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s leaked case likewise shows four rear camera lenses (three large and one smaller), also on a pill-shaped island, with a rounded top edge to accommodate the S Pen tip. These images suggest the S26 Ultra will continue to include the S Pen and will likely use a curved corner on top to store it. In fact, SamMobile explicitly notes that the S26 Ultra “has four rear cameras and a curved top for the S Pen to match the curved corners of the phone”.
Overall, it seems Samsung is keeping the S26 series design language very close to the S25. Android Central notes that Samsung is expected to “overhaul the design” for S26, but likely in subtle ways – refining the shape and materials rather than completely discarding the familiar Galaxy look. For example, the leaked renders imply thinner side frames and less camera protrusion, which matches rumors that Samsung is going with a “thinner design on all Galaxy S26 models,” similar to what it did with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Sources say thinner camera modules and a generally slimmer frame are planned, which would make the S26 Ultra even lighter and thinner than the S25 Ultra. NotebookCheck confirms this: the Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to measure 7.9 mm thick (about 0.3 mm thinner than the S25 Ultra) and weigh only 214 grams (4 grams lighter than the predecessor). Those who like subtle design changes should be pleased: rounded edges, flatter sides, and possibly new color options are expected.
Display sizes for the Galaxy S26 models are also largely determined by leaks. TechRadar’s spec predictions (based on multiple sources) suggest that the Galaxy S26 (base model) will have a roughly 6.3-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen, the Galaxy S26 Plus will use about a 6.7-inch QHD+ panel, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature a 6.9-inch QHD+ display. All are expected to support a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The S26 Ultra’s display may use Samsung’s new “M14” AMOLED panel, which could improve brightness or efficiency, but its basic specs (6.9 inches, 120Hz, 2600 nit peak brightness) likely mirror last year’s model. Notably, Samsung is rumored to bump the Ultra’s refresh rate even further or include more advanced video processing (Galaxy AI features), but specific improvements in the S26 displays remain closely held until launch.
One convenient rumor affecting design and accessories is the new Qi2 magnetic charging system, introduced by Apple and now supported by many phones. Samsung confirmed it will join this standard by selling dedicated Qi2 chargers and magnetic cases. However, recent leaks indicate that the S26 phones themselves won’t have built-in magnets; instead, Samsung will rely on magnet-equipped cases for its Qi2 accessories. In other words, the leaked official cases for S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra include magnets, but the phones’ frames will not. This aligns with TechRadar’s coverage: Samsung plans a 25W Qi2 magnetic charging puck for the Galaxy S26 lineup. So, while the S26 will support MagSafe-style charging and a magnetic power bank, you’ll need a magnetic case (like the ones leaked) to attach those accessories. This approach (non-magnetic phone with magnetic case) seems confirmed by leaked first-party cases showing “magnetic and non-magnetic varieties” – basically proving native phone magnets were dropped.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S26 design appears to be an evolution of the S25: thinner chassis, a new pill-shaped camera module, continued use of the S Pen on Ultra, and support for the new Qi2 magnetic charging standard via special cases. We can expect premium metal/glass builds and possibly refreshed colorways, but not a radical departure from Samsung’s signature minimalist style.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Camera and Imaging
Samsung is pushing camera upgrades for 2026, especially on the Ultra model. According to leaks, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will pack a quad-camera array, including a massive new sensor. TechRadar and other outlets report that the S26 Ultra is likely to use a 200MP main camera (like the current Galaxy S25 Ultra, but potentially with an updated sensor and lens). In addition, all sources agree on a 50MP ultra-wide camera and two telephoto lenses for the Ultra model: a 10MP 3x zoom (same as before) and a new 50MP 5x zoom lens. This 50MP telephoto (5x) appears new and may significantly improve zoom quality. In a notable development, Android Central reported that Samsung is “said to be considering a 200MP telephoto lens on the S26 Ultra,” which would be a groundbreaking feature, although that may be confusion with the main 200MP sensor. (In context, AC’s author was actually excited about a 200MP telephoto similar to what Vivo and Honor have done, but most rumors indicate the main 200MP lens remains on the Ultra).
For the Galaxy S26 base model and the Galaxy S26 Plus, leaks suggest a triple-camera setup. These two models are expected to stick with a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP 3x telephoto lens, very much like their S25 counterparts. One rumor hints Samsung might upgrade the base model’s 10MP tele to 12MP, but that is unconfirmed. The front cameras are expected to remain around 12MP on all models. In short, the camera specs (at least in terms of hardware resolution) don’t radically differ from S25 for the non-Ultra models, but Samsung is likely banking on AI processing improvements and perhaps larger sensors. TechRadar notes that while the core camera specs may be similar on paper, the S26 series could still offer improvements in things like optical stabilization, image processing, and night mode.
A major focus for Samsung is likely to be low-light and zoom performance, areas where competitors have excelled. The Ultra’s rumored new 50MP telephoto lens and possibly larger image sensors (there are leaks suggesting “a larger sensor too” for the Ultra’s main camera) point to significant upgrades. Samsung might even reintroduce a variable aperture on the main camera (a feature used on the Galaxy S10), though some reports are skeptical of that claim. We’ll have to wait for official camera samples, but the leak consensus is that the S26 Ultra will either match or slightly exceed the S25 Ultra in camera performance, while the S26 and S26+ may see smaller, iterative improvements.
In summary, expect the Galaxy S26 Ultra to deliver the headline camera news: 200MP main sensor, new 50MP telephoto lens, and 60W charging (see next section). The Galaxy S26 and S26+ will likely offer very good flagship cameras (50MP main, 10MP tele, etc.), but with fewer bells and whistles. One tipster even suggests S26 Ultra could feature 5x optical zoom up to 30x digital (similar to Huawei and Vivo’s recent flagships), though exact zoom range is unconfirmed. In any case, Samsung’s 2026 phones will have a strong camera emphasis, aided by Samsung’s on-device Galaxy AI enhancements, as we discuss below.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Hardware & Performance
As usual for Samsung’s flagship line, the Galaxy S26 will use cutting-edge processors and plenty of memory. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (Qualcomm’s latest flagship chip) is virtually certain to power these phones globally, and Samsung is also expected to continue using a custom Exynos 2600 chipset in select regions. TechRadar’s leaked spec chart confirms that both the Galaxy S26 and S26+ could see Snapdragon/Exynos variants (depending on market), while the S26 Ultra may ship only with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 worldwide. This would mark the first time Samsung switches to a single global chipset for its Ultra model (leaks suggest the Ultra will be Snapdragon-only, including in Samsung’s home market). We expect these new chips to deliver noticeable gains in speed, AI processing, and power efficiency over last year’s chips, thanks to refinements in manufacturing and core architecture.
In terms of memory and storage, Samsung looks to be sticking with the high-end options. The base Galaxy S26 and S26+ are tipped to ship with 12GB of RAM as standard. The S26 Ultra could offer both 12GB and 16GB RAM models, much like the S25 Ultra had a 16GB variant (though availability of the higher RAM SKU may vary by region). For storage, all models will likely start at 256GB, with 512GB as an option. The Ultra may even go up to 1TB of storage, targeting users who need extreme capacity for photos and videos. Notably, leaks hint that Samsung might drop the 128GB base option for the S26, given that every spec chart we’ve seen shows 256GB as the minimum.
Samsung’s software will of course be top-notch. The Galaxy S26 phones are expected to launch with Android 16 under Samsung’s latest One UI 8 interface. This means you can anticipate all the new Android 16 features plus Samsung-specific Galaxy AI functions (for on-device photo and video enhancements, voice commands, etc.) that the company is rolling out across its 2026 devices. For example, at CES 2026 Samsung showcased a vision of AI-powered device interconnectivity, and it’s very likely the S26 series will incorporate many of these Galaxy AI ideas (such as advanced voice assistants, improved image processing, and privacy features). In short, expect extremely fast performance: quick app loads, 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 7 support, and cutting-edge GPU and NPU performance from these new chips.
To summarize the key hardware specs (based on current leaks):
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 globally (custom Exynos 2600 in some regions).
- Memory: 12GB RAM standard (Ultra may offer up to 16GB).
- Storage: 256GB / 512GB standard (Ultra also offers 1TB).
- Display: Galaxy S26 ~6.3″ FHD+ AMOLED, S26+ ~6.7″ QHD+ AMOLED, S26 Ultra ~6.9″ QHD+ AMOLED, all 120Hz.
- OS: Android 16 with One UI 8 (Samsung’s latest).
Each of these specs will be complemented by Samsung’s usual feature set: IP68 water/dust resistance, stereo speakers, ultra-low latency input (for S Pen on the Ultra), and likely improved vibration/haptics. We may also see new biometric hardware (Samsung teased a “new privacy layer” in early 2026 that suggests advanced security hardware, although details are scarce).
Samsung Galaxy S26 Battery & Charging
Battery capacity and charging are important improvements Samsung often targets. The leaks suggest that battery sizes will increase slightly for 2026, especially to keep up with the larger screens and 5G power use. For the Galaxy S26 lineup, the predicted battery capacities are: 4300mAh for the standard S26, 4900mAh for the S26 Plus, and 5000mAh (or possibly higher) for the S26 Ultra. (One rumor even says the Ultra might use a 5200 or 5400mAh cell, but the most consistent report is 5000mAh – which is the same as the S25 Ultra; any extra capacity may be achieved through efficiency gains). These would be modest gains over last year (the S25 base had 4000mAh, S25+ had 4900, S25 Ultra had 5000), so Samsung is likely aiming to maintain or slightly improve battery life.
Charging speeds are expected to rise as well. Leaks indicate that wired charging support could be up to 60W on the S26 Ultra (up from 45W on the S25 Ultra), 45W on the S26 Plus (same as S25+), and likely 25W on the base S26 (same as before). Wireless charging on all models should also support Samsung’s new Qi2 standard up to 25W, as hinted by Samsung’s announcement of a 25W Qi2 magnetic charger for the S26 series. The same leak that detailed the cases mentioned a 25W Qi2 wireless charging puck, indicating Samsung plans to fully embrace MagSafe-style charging accessories. Because the phones are rumored to lack built-in magnets, Samsung will supply magnet-equipped wireless chargers and power banks that attach to the Qi2 ring on the phone’s case.
In short, expect charging and battery specifications something like this:
- Wired Charging: ~25W (Galaxy S26), 45W (S26+), 60W (S26 Ultra).
- Wireless Charging: up to 25W Qi2 magnetic charging on all models (with Samsung’s new Qi2 charger).
- Battery: ~4300mAh (S26), ~4900mAh (S26+), ~5000mAh (S26 Ultra), possibly up to 5200mAh in some leaks.
Samsung will likely also include faster wireless speeds (like updated Wireless PowerShare and reverse charging) and perhaps a new power efficiency mode in One UI 8. Given the Galaxy S26’s position as the top-of-line series, it should charge quickly and last comfortably through a day of heavy use under normal conditions.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Software & Special Features
Beyond the hardware, Samsung’s Galaxy S series always includes the latest software and software-driven features. The S26 phones will run Android 16 out of the box, skinned with Samsung’s One UI 8 interface. This means all the typical One UI refinements plus a focus on AI-powered features under the “Galaxy AI” banner. Samsung has already hinted that its 2026 devices will have enhanced AI and privacy functions. For example, at Samsung’s First Look event for 2026, the company emphasized new AI companions and smart features across all product lines. We can therefore expect the Galaxy S26 to introduce more on-device AI capabilities (improved object recognition, voice translation, smarter camera modes, etc.) and possibly new health or privacy tools (Samsung unveiled a “privacy layer” for smartphones that prevents shoulder surfing at CES 2026, which may tie into the S26’s software, though detailed confirmation is pending).
Another likely software feature is Samsung DeX and wireless projection, which have improved every year, and will probably be refined further on the S26. Samsung’s Knox security platform will be updated, and the S26 Ultra might include a more secure hardware enclave for sensitive data (Samsung mentioned a “privacy chip” for 2026 devices in a teaser, possibly by CES). Expect at least four years of Android updates and five years of security patches on the S26 series, since Samsung now commits to long support for flagships.
Finally, accessories and ecosystem features (which Samsung sometimes mentions in press materials) are worth noting: Samsung is likely to continue wireless audio and watch integration, and there are rumors of an even tighter Galaxy ecosystem. We won’t know specifics until launch, but software-wise, the Galaxy S26 series should represent the pinnacle of Samsung’s software experience in 2026.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Price & Variants
Price is always a major question for flagship phones, and early leaks suggest Samsung may raise prices significantly in Europe. A recent NotebookCheck report cites a Bulgarian price sheet leak indicating sharp price hikes for the S26 models. According to that leak, the Galaxy S26 (12GB/256GB) might start at about €1,199, which is €240 more than the comparable S25 model had in Germany. The 512GB S26 could go for €1,429. For the Galaxy S26 Plus, the leak lists about €1,499 for 12GB/256GB (up €350 from last year) and €1,729 for 12GB/512GB. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is reportedly starting at €1,739 (12GB/256GB, +€290) and climbing to €1,969 for the 512GB version. Notably, the Ultra 1TB model could cost as much as €2,329 – over two thousand euros for the first time. These leaked figures, if accurate, would make the Galaxy S26 Europe’s most expensive Samsung phones to date, possibly reflecting inflation or higher internal costs. Samsung has not confirmed any pricing, and prices often vary by region (these figures are for Bulgaria/Germany market assumptions), but they suggest we should not expect a cheaper S26 lineup.
For comparison, U.S. pricing rumors have also been circulating (though less concretely). Given the Euro-to-USD math and past pricing strategies, we might see something like $1,199 for the base Galaxy S26 (256GB), $1,399 for the S26+ 256GB, and $1,699 for the S26 Ultra 256GB. The Ultra 1TB could be over $2,000 in the U.S. The upward trend is clear: buyers should expect roughly 15–20% higher MSRPs than the S25 series.
All three models (and possibly a late-run S26 Edge) will come in multiple color and case options. Early renders and leaks have shown the S26 and S26+ in a matte white/gray and possibly other finishes. Samsung will also likely offer a variety of official cases (some leaked images already exist of the Qi2-compatible cases). Most carriers and retailers will offer pre-order promotions as usual; given Samsung’s recent habits, preorders in the U.S. might include free earbuds or credits. It’s also possible Samsung will bundle the 25W Qi2 charger or power bank in some markets. We’ll know the final U.S. and global prices once Samsung officially announces the phones, but the current indication is that we should be prepared to pay a premium for the Galaxy S26 upgrades.
Conclusion & Predictions
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series looks to be an evolutionary flagship cycle: a familiar three-phone lineup with iterative design tweaks and significant internal upgrades. Based on leaked information and analyst predictions, here’s what we can sum up:
- Release: An Unpacked event around Feb 25, 2026, with sales in mid-March.
- Design: Subtly updated with thinner chassis, flat sides, and a new pill-shaped camera module. The S26 Ultra will continue the stylus tradition with a slightly curved corner for the S Pen. Expect Qi2 magnet rings (in cases) and IP68 water resistance.
- Display: High-end AMOLED screens (6.3”/6.7”/6.9”, all 120Hz), possibly brighter and more efficient than before. The Ultra may debut a new “M14” Samsung panel.
- Camera: The Galaxy S26 Ultra will be the standout camera flagship – rumored to pack a 200MP main sensor, a new 50MP 5x telephoto, plus other top lenses. The S26 and S26+ will have robust triple-lens setups (50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP tele) similar to the S25 series. Expect big improvements in zoom and night photography thanks to sensor upgrades and Samsung’s AI.
- Performance: All models use the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (with Exynos variants in some regions). They’ll feature at least 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, with the Ultra offering up to 16GB/1TB. This will ensure top-tier speed and multitasking for 2026.
- Battery & Charging: Slightly larger batteries (up to ~5000mAh+) and faster charging (Ultra with ~60W wired, all with 25W Qi2 wireless) mean better longevity and quicker top-ups.
- Software: Shipping with Android 16 and One UI 8, the S26 phones will introduce new Galaxy AI and privacy features (Samsung showcased many AI innovations for 2026). We expect advanced on-device AI, refined user experiences, and years of updates.
- Price: Leaks suggest significantly higher prices in Europe, so U.S. buyers should also brace for a premium. The base Galaxy S26 will likely start around $1199-$1299, with the Ultra easily hitting $1699+ for the 256GB model, and over $2000 for top-tier configurations.
In the lead-up to the official announcement, Samsung is sure to drip out more teasers. Industry watchers will be paying close attention to final camera specs, battery claims, and any surprises (e.g. will the S26 series include under-display Face ID? Or new sensor colors? The rumors have been quiet on that). For now, the consensus is that the Galaxy S26 will primarily refine and build upon the S25 formula, rather than reinvent the wheel. If you’re considering an upgrade, the Ultra is likely to offer the biggest jump (especially if you need that 200MP camera or the fastest processor), while the base S26 and S26+ should be solid choices for most users with respectable specs.
Stay tuned for Samsung’s announcements and more hands-on previews. As of early 2026, our best advice is: watch for the official Feb 25 Unpacked event for all the full details, and meanwhile keep an eye on credible leaks and news sources. The Samsung Galaxy S26 series will define the Android flagship experience in 2026, and by the time it launches, we’ll know just how much these predictions hit the mark.
External Links
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: First official promotional poster leaked – NotebookCheck.net News
Samsung Galaxy S26 specs predictions: rumored specs for every model | TechRadar
https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-s26-specs
Samsung Galaxy S26: Everything we know so far | Android Central
https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-s26
Designs of Samsung Galaxy S26 series phones revealed in new images of cases – SamMobile
https://www.sammobile.com/news/galaxy-s26-design-revealed-case-images
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