Let’s recap week number 8 of 2026, which was heavily influenced by news related to the Galaxy S26. Meanwhile, Google unveiled the new Pixel 10a, and Xiaomi's 17 series is gearing up for a global release.
This week brought insights into the performance of the S26’s chip. Reports suggest that the Exynos 2600, which will be utilized in certain Galaxy S26 models in specific markets, demonstrates superior ray tracing performance compared to the Adreno 840 found in Snapdragon-equipped variants. However, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-powered Galaxy S26 Ultra excels in single-core performance over its Exynos 2600 counterpart.
Samsung also previewed the privacy display feature of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which offers per-pixel control to blackout parts of the display as necessary, ensuring users' privacy.
Snapdragon-powered Galaxy S26 Ultra Triumphs Over Exynos in Single-Core Performance
The Galaxy S26 Ultra leverages an overclocked version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 designed specifically for Galaxy devices.
Samsung Showcases Privacy Display Feature in Galaxy S26 Ultra
This innovative feature allows the display to appear black to onlookers while remaining fully legible to the user.
Samsung Promotes Galaxy S26 Ultra's Low-Light Camera Capabilities with AI Video
The promotional material has generated mixed reactions due to its unconventional approach.
Galaxy S26 Ultra's Selfie Camera Expected to Feature New Sensor
The device is rumored to have a larger hole-punch cutout for the front camera compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Meanwhile, Google has introduced the Pixel 10a, which closely resembles the Pixel 9a. The new model offers subtle changes, including a slightly refreshed color palette, a marginally brighter display with 3,000 nits peak brightness (up from 2,700), enhanced Gorilla Glass 7i, and improved charging speed. The Pixel 10a launches at the same price point of $499.
The Nothing Phone (4a) and (4a) Pro are also set to launch on March 5.
Google Pixel 10a Features Old Tensor G4, Faster Charging, and Same Price
Equipped with Gorilla Glass 7i and a slightly brighter 6.3" Actua display, the Pixel 10a retains a 5,100mAh battery capacity.
Nothing Confirms Launch Event for Phone (4a) Series
This event is scheduled for one day after Apple's upcoming special experience event.
Specifications, Colors, and Prices for Nothing Phone (4a) Series Leaked
The unveiling of the Phone (4a) and (4a) Pro is confirmed for March 5.
Infinix Note 60 Pro Unboxing and Hands-On
The package includes a 90W charger and a case with MagSafe compatibility, among other accessories.
Finally, the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra are expected to make a global appearance on February 28. The 17 model will feature a smaller 6,330mAh battery compared to the Chinese version’s 7,000mAh, while the 17 Ultra is anticipated to have a 6,000mAh battery rather than 6,800mAh.
The Xiaomi 17 is expected to retail at €999 for the 12/256GB model and €1,099 for the 12/512GB variant. The Ultra variant starts at €1,499 for the 16/512GB model.
Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra to Launch Globally with European Pricing Leaks
The duo is set to exit China shortly.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition Coming to Global Markets Under a Different Name
This rebranding is expected to align with international marketing strategies.
