Samsung Unveils Galaxy S26 Series: Incremental Upgrades and Price Increases
Samsung has officially introduced the Galaxy S26 series, comprising the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra models. This latest lineup offers modest enhancements over its predecessors, accompanied by a price increase on two of the models.
Design and Display
The Galaxy S26 Ultra now features a more rounded design, aligning with the aesthetics of the S26 and S26+ models. It boasts a slim profile of under 8mm and a substantial 6.9-inch display. A unified camera bump is a notable design change, though overall visual differences from the previous model are minimal. The S26 and S26+ maintain a design nearly identical to their predecessors, with the refreshed camera module being the primary update.
Performance and Hardware
All three models are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, customized with Samsung’s for Galaxy enhancements. The Ultra model includes a new Vapor Chamber for improved thermal management. The standard S26 receives a battery upgrade to 4,300mAh, while the Ultra supports Super-Fast Charging 3.0, achieving charging speeds up to 60W. The S26+ and Ultra models also benefit from faster wireless charging capabilities, thanks to Qi2 technology, offering 20W and 25W charging speeds, respectively. However, none of the devices incorporate built-in magnets for Qi2 accessories.
Privacy Display Feature
A standout feature exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the Privacy Display. This technology detects sensitive content, such as incoming notifications, and obscures them from off-angle viewers. Users can customize this feature within applications, choosing between two visibility settings to enhance privacy.
S Pen Updates
The S Pen, compatible with the Ultra model, is now available only in black and white, with the tip color-coded to match the device. Notably, Bluetooth functionality has not been reinstated in this iteration.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy S26 series is available for pre-order starting today, with general availability commencing on March 11, 2026. The base model is priced at $899, the S26+ at $1,099, and the S26 Ultra at $1,299. This represents a $50 increase for the S26 and S26+ compared to their predecessors, while the Ultra’s price remains unchanged.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S26 series offers incremental improvements over the previous generation, with design refinements, performance enhancements, and new features like the Privacy Display. However, the modest nature of these upgrades, coupled with price increases, may lead consumers to consider whether the new models provide sufficient value over their predecessors.
