Samsung Galaxy S26: our expectations

      It's been under five months since Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 series, which comprises the regular version, the Galaxy S25 Plus, and the flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra. While the focus has shifted to the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge, we're starting to get a clearer picture of what to anticipate from Samsung's Galaxy S26 series. At the very least, we can begin to outline our desired features for the 2026 phones, which are expected to launch in January.

      Will the lineup include three models again, or will a Galaxy S26 Edge be introduced simultaneously? Are we about to see significant design changes in Samsung’s most popular smartphone series, or should we prepare for a more familiar look?

      Let the speculation commence!

      Latest leaks and rumors about the Samsung Galaxy S26

      It's not surprising that the rumors surrounding the Galaxy S26 are currently few, but they will likely increase as the launch date approaches. A report from March indicates that Samsung might not rely solely on Qualcomm this time. Similar to previous cycles (though not the Galaxy S25 series), Samsung has often used a mix of Qualcomm and its Exynos chips based on the device and region. By including Exynos chips, Samsung reduces its dependence on Qualcomm. However, historically, Exynos chips have been regarded as inferior, and it’s likely that any chips Samsung utilizes in 2026 will be perceived similarly.

      More recent rumors suggest that Samsung may substitute the 10MP 3x optical telephoto camera with a new sensor. While the 200MP main, 50MP wide-angle, and 50MP 5x telephoto cameras are likely to be carried over from the current Galaxy S25 Ultra, the 10MP 3x zoom may be replaced with an unknown megapixel fourth sensor.

      It would not be surprising for Samsung to make some camera enhancements in the upcoming Galaxy S Ultra, as they typically aim to improve different camera features with every new Ultra model. For instance, the Galaxy S25 Ultra upgraded the wide-angle camera to 50MP, and the Galaxy S22 Ultra introduced a 200MP primary camera.

      At least one rumor has suggested that the next Galaxy S Ultra could come with an under-display front camera system, although this claim has mostly been dismissed.

      Several other speculations about the Galaxy S26 series, particularly concerning the Galaxy S26 Ultra, have emerged, but many seem to rely more on speculation than confirmed facts. Among these are suggestions that the series could include new battery technology, faster wired charging, and might feature advanced facial scanning similar to Apple's Face ID. Additionally, there’s speculation that the new flagship could be slimmer than its predecessors and have a brighter display.

      Samsung Galaxy S26: our wishlist

      We have some preliminary ideas for the Galaxy S26 series. Although it's uncertain if any of these wishes will come true, we look forward to potentially exciting developments.

      Enhanced charging in mid-range models

      Is it too much to hope for Samsung to improve charging options in the more budget-friendly Galaxy S models? We don’t think so. Upgrades in both wired and wireless charging would clearly enhance user convenience and daily efficiency. Faster wired charging would significantly reduce downtime, allowing users to quickly recharge their devices during short breaks, particularly in emergencies or during busy days. Additionally, improvements in wireless charging would create a more seamless, cable-free charging experience.

      Upgraded cameras for all models

      Whether it’s Samsung, Apple, or another smartphone brand, camera upgrades are nearly guaranteed each year—at least for the top models offered by these companies. However, more affordable options, like the standard iPhone and Galaxy S models, tend to see fewer upgrades year after year. While we don't anticipate this changing for Samsung in 2026, we can still hope for upgrades.

      Smartphones are quite pricey, even entry-level models, so it’s not unreasonable to expect significant camera improvements from generation to generation for these devices. Perhaps Samsung will realize this in the coming year.

      Eliminating the Plus model

      Samsung is predicted to unveil the Galaxy S25 Edge in May. A few months later, Apple will present the iPhone Air. Together, these smartphones will introduce a new era of sleek designs from the leading two phone manufacturers. However, the methods of their launch will differ.

      Apple, which already offers four models in its main lineup, will phase out the iPhone Plus and replace it with the iPhone Air starting with the iPhone 17 series this fall. On the other hand, Samsung is expanding its primary phone lineup from three to four models.

      While it’s not guaranteed, the Galaxy S26 series could again feature four models (Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, Galaxy S26 Edge, and Galaxy S26 Ultra); however, it may also scale back to three by dropping the Galaxy S Plus from the 2026 lineup. That’s what we believe Samsung should do, although the decision will heavily depend on the reception of the Galaxy S25 Edge and ultimately the iPhone 17 Air