As the much-anticipated launch of the Galaxy S26 series approaches on February 25, excitement is building among tech enthusiasts and Samsung fans alike. Recent leaks and rumors have unveiled significant developments while dispelling some earlier speculations. While these updates may not constitute a major leap forward from the previous generation, several intriguing enhancements promise to elevate the user experience. Below, we explore the eight essential changes to expect from the Galaxy S26 trio at launch.
Revamped Camera Island Design
The design of the Galaxy S26 series brings a fresh twist, featuring a redesigned camera island. Unlike the separated lenses seen in the Galaxy S25, the new models will showcase a cohesive island design. Notably, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will sport rounder corners, with the camera island appearing more pronounced due to the phone's slimmer profile, which has decreased from 7.2 mm to 6.9 mm for the base S26.
Battery Enhancements for the Galaxy S26
Despite initial hopes for a battery upgrade in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, it seems that the device will maintain its 5,000 mAh capacity. Conversely, the standard Galaxy S26 is set to receive a slight battery boost, increasing to a 4,300 mAh capacity, which is 300 mAh more than its predecessor.
Charging Capabilities: Upgrading to 60W
The Galaxy S26 Ultra will also support faster charging, with a new 60W wired charging capability up from the previous 45W. Additionally, the rumored wireless charging speed may increase to 25W, while the standard Galaxy S26 will reportedly feature 45W wired charging support. Unfortunately, Qi2 charging support with built-in magnets similar to Apple's MagSafe may not be available.
Incremental Camera Upgrades
Camera upgrades for the S26 series are expected to be modest. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will retain its 50 MP 5x telephoto and ultra-wide sensors. However, a new mechanical variable aperture is a possibility, providing enhanced control for photography enthusiasts. The other models in the range may not feature this advanced capability.
Processor Options Based on Region
This series will be available with two processor options, varying by region: the Exynos 2600 and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Although there may still be performance differences, both chips are expected to deliver excellent performance for everyday tasks.
Display Upgrades for a Better Visual Experience
One of the most significant improvements in the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be its display. It will feature a new privacy mechanism that conceals on-screen content from prying eyes, along with a new Gorilla Glass panel for added durability. The display may also leverage new technology for enhanced power efficiency and reduced reflections. The Galaxy S26 will see a slight increase in screen size, with improvements in brightness potentially reaching 3,000 nits.
AI Features to Enhance User Interaction
The upcoming One UI 8.5 is set to debut with the new phones, introducing an upgraded Bixby assistant, capable of engaging in natural language conversations and conducting web searches. Collaborating with Nota AI, Samsung aims to integrate EdgeFusion, which will allow users to generate high-quality images quickly based on text prompts.
Potential Price Adjustments and Launch Details
Pricing discussions surround the Galaxy S26 series, with reports indicating potential increases in specific European markets. While the pricing strategy for the U.S. remains uncertain, there’s a possibility it could remain stable. Mark your calendars for the February 25 announcement, as Samsung is expected to reveal these flagship devices during an Unpacked event, with sales commencing shortly thereafter.
