Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced early deliveries of its most advanced AI-driven smartphone line, Galaxy S26 series for customers who pre-booked the devices in India.

Galaxy S26 series – which includes the S26 Ultra, S26+ and S26 – introduces the world’s first built-in Privacy Display for mobile phones to unlock a new class of display experiences along with agentic AI that silently handles routine tasks so users can focus on what truly matters.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform, Galaxy S26 Ultra promise major gains in CPU, GPU and NPU performance in a slim 7.9mm design, with Super-Fast Charging 3.0, reaching up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes.

Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces significant camera enhancements, including wider apertures for improved low-light photography and enhanced Nightography Video for vibrant, clear footage in dim conditions. Its upgraded Super Steady technology ensures stable framing during video capture. Its AI ISP improvements extend to the selfie camera, delivering natural skin tones and finer details in mixed lighting. Notably, the device is the first Galaxy to support the Advanced Professional Video (APV) standard for efficient compression of high-quality video.

The series upgrades AI editing tools, adds real-time features such as Now Brief and enhanced Circle to Search, and deepens integration with agents like Bixby, Gemini and Perplexity. Security remains central, with Private Album, Knox Matrix protection, seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates.

The Galaxy S26 series is currently available for pre-order at all major online and mainline retail outlets in India until March 10, 2026. Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at INR 139999, while Galaxy S26+ starts at INR 119999. The most affordable S26 base variant starts at INR 87999.

All three models feature a unified design language, with shared colour options: Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue.

Samsung Electronics today announced that Galaxy S26 Ultra won Best in Show at the Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO Awards) during Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 held in Barcelona, Spain. The Global Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) holds the GLOMO Awards annually during MWC to recognize outstanding innovations in the mobile industry. The Best in Show category celebrates consumer-focused products that set a benchmark for technology. One of the industry’s highest honors, Best in Show devices are known as the “gold standard” across the digital landscape as judged by more than 200 world-leading independent analysts, journalists and industry veterans.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Best in Show

At the March 4 awards ceremony, Galaxy S26 Ultra won Best in Show for its seamless blend of advanced hardware and intuitive, proactive One UI 8.5 software. Galaxy AI delivers adaptive, context-aware intelligence that simplifies everyday tasks while safeguarding security and privacy. Together, these advancements bring to life the most intuitive mobile AI designed to anticipate users’ needs.

Galaxy S26 Ultra also introduced the world’s first built-in Privacy Display, a breakthrough in display engineering, that gives users a more private but vibrant viewing experience. Inside, a customized chipset powers faster Galaxy AI, setting a new standard for effortless mobile experiences on Galaxy S26 Ultra.

“This year’s competition was exceptionally strong,” said Shaun Collins, Chair of the Judges for MWC Best in Show 2026. “We look for technology that is not only innovative and compelling, but that genuinely moves the industry forward. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra stood out for pushing the boundaries of mobile technology while delivering meaningful, real-world impact. In particular, its privacy innovation addresses one of the most important needs of today’s digital lifestyle — security, personal space and trust.”

The MWC Best in Show judging panel said that among more than 3,000 exhibitors, the Galaxy S26 Ultra stood out for making forward-looking innovation possible now. “While many technologies showcased at MWC highlight the future,” the panel said, “this is a product consumers can experience today.”

“We are honored that the Galaxy S26 Ultra has been recognized as ‘Best in Show’ at this year’s GLOMO Awards,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP and Head of Mobile Marketing Center, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “The Galaxy S26 Ultra is an agentic AI phone that signifies Samsung’s ongoing commitment to push our industry forward, and this distinction is especially meaningful given the extraordinary innovation showcased at MWC.”

For more information about the Galaxy S26 Ultra, please visit: Samsung Newsroom India and Samsung.com.

Built around three core pillars — Reach, Openness and Confidence — the event highlighted Samsung’s vision of making Galaxy AI more natural, intuitive and deeply integrated into everyday life.

From smarter on-device experiences to seamless cross-device connectivity, a new era of AI-powered innovation took center stage.

Samsung Newsroom was on the ground to bring you all the highlights.

In case you missed it, watch the official replay of Galaxy Unpacked 2026 here.

▲ Galaxy Unpacked 2026 was held at Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco

On February 25, Samsung Electronics hosted Galaxy Unpacked 2026 in San Francisco, unveiling the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds4 series.

Centered on three core pillars — Reach, Openness and Confidence — the event underscored Samsung’s commitment to embedding Galaxy AI more deeply into everyday experiences.

Samsung Newsroom attended Galaxy Unpacked 2026, where a new era of AI integration took center stage.

Galaxy S26 Series: Advancing Agentic AI

With the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung builds on its legacy of mobile AI innovation to deliver more intelligent and seamless experiences. At the core of this evolution is agentic AI.

“Every groundbreaking technology follows a similar journey. It begins as a marvel — rare, expensive and loudly celebrated. But the technologies that change history fade into the background because they become infrastructure,” said TM Roh, CEO and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “Infrastructure is responsibility. It must work for everyone, everywhere. Today, there is still a gap between what AI promises and what people actually experience. Closing that gap is where Galaxy keeps pushing forward.”

▲ Roh introduced Samsung’s vision for agentic AI.

▲ Galaxy 26 Ultra was unveiled in a video.

Galaxy AI: Everyday Intelligence in Action

Built on Galaxy AI, Call Screening summarizes incoming calls — identifying who is calling and why — so users can quickly decide whether to respond.

New to the Galaxy S26 series, Now Nudge understands conversational context and surfaces relevant suggestions, keeping users in the flow without switching between apps.

The latest version of Bixby supports real-time web search, with results appearing directly within the conversation rather than redirecting users to a browser.

▲ Rachel Roberts, Partnerships Manager at Samsung Electronics U.K., explained how the new Now Nudge helps users stay focused on their day.

Agentic AI: The Foundation of Personal and Secure Intelligence

 Samsung drives platform-level innovation that is personal, adaptive and agentic. For AI to feel intuitive, it must understand context — and smartphones are uniquely positioned to deliver that experience.

The Personal Data Engine (PDE) on the Galaxy S26 series learns from user preferences on device, while Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) safeguards and isolates data within individual apps. Samsung Knox Vault adds another layer of protection by securing sensitive information — including passwords, security keys and biometrics — in a dedicated hardware environment.

▲ Won-Joon Choi, Chief Operating Officer of Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, outlined the transition to an AI-powered platform spanning the entire operating system, data and security architecture.

Google Partnership: Pushing the Boundaries of What’s Possible

First introduced at Galaxy Unpacked 2024, Circle to Search continues to expand. Users can now search for multiple objects within a single image — making visual discovery more seamless.

Samsung and Google also previewed the next evolution of Android — a more intelligent, agentic platform powered by Google’s Gemini 3. On the Galaxy S26 series, the early preview will launch as a Google Labs feature, with additional capabilities rolling out over time.

▲ Sameer Samat, President of Android Ecosystem at Google, highlighted the upgraded functionality of Circle to Search.

 Performance Built for AI: Powering Intelligent Experiences

 Delivering seamless, on-device intelligence requires powerful performance. Samsung co-developed a custom application processor (AP) for Galaxy S26 Ultra, featuring a 39% more powerful neural processing unit (NPU) and a 19% faster central processing unit (CPU).

Galaxy S26 Ultra, powered by Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5, delivers enhanced graphics and gaming performance. A redesigned thermal architecture — including the largest vapor chamber yet — improves heat management for sustained performance. Optimized power efficiency extends battery life, while faster charging reduces downtime.

▲ Roberts explained performance enhancements in the Galaxy S26 series.

Privacy Display: A New Layer of Protection

 Galaxy S26 Ultra debuts Privacy Display — a display-integrated layer designed to limit side viewing while maintaining clarity and brightness.

With privacy in mind, users can toggle the feature on or off and customize it for specific apps, while Maximum Privacy Protection offers enhanced shielding for sensitive information such as financial details.

▲ Miles Franklin, a tech content creator, demonstrated Privacy Display.

AI-Powered Camera: Smarter in Every Shot

The Galaxy S26 series features a front camera powered by an AI ISP (Image Signal Processor) for enhanced detail and color accuracy. Across the camera system, Nightography Video advances low-light capture, reducing grain and preserving sharpness after dark.

For creators, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces professional-grade camera tools, including up to 8K recording with the APV codec. Galaxy AI also simplifies everyday tasks with intelligent Document Scan, which automatically flattens, cleans and converts documents into ready-to-share files. AI-powered editing features further streamline creativity, allowing users to remove distractions and enhance images directly on device.

▲ Mason Page, Director of Digital Experience Innovation at Samsung Electronics, described how AI helps capture clearer images.

 Galaxy Buds4 Series: Refining the Audio Experience

The Galaxy Buds4 series, also announced at Galaxy Unpacked 2026, features a refreshed Blade design and enhanced audio performance. Galaxy Buds4 Pro includes a wider woofer in its two-way speaker system and refined tuning for richer bass and clearer highs.

Call quality has been upgraded with AI-powered noise reduction that minimizes background noise and improves voice clarity. Super Wideband further expands voice bandwidth for clearer, more natural calls, while hands-free access to Bixby, Gemini and Perplexity makes everyday interactions more seamless.

▲ Andrew Short, Mobile Business Manager, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, revealed the Galaxy Buds4 series.

Sustainability: Expanding Galaxy for the Planet

Samsung reaffirmed its Galaxy for the Planet initiative, announcing the completion of its 2025 environmental commitments and introducing new 2030 goals focused on resource circularity, water stewardship and biodiversity conservation, expanding the initiative to address broader environmental impact.

As part of new 2030 goals, Samsung plans to incorporate at least one recycled material into every mobile device, advance water stewardship across 10 global mobile device manufacturing sites to replenish 110% of water consumption to local communities and conserve ecosystems spanning an area equal to or greater than the combined footprint of these sites.

In line with this commitment, the Galaxy S26 series expands the use of recycled materials across key components of every mobile device, including recycled plastics, glass, cobalt and the newly added recycled tantalum.

Ocean Mode — a camera feature originally developed to optimize underwater image capture in support of coral reef restoration — has expanded to Expert RAW, enabling Galaxy users to experience advanced underwater photography.

▲ Cassie Smith, Senior Manager of Corporate Sustainability and U.S. Public Affairs at Samsung Electronics, shared the company’s sustainability efforts.

The Experience Zone: Where Galaxy Innovation Comes to Life

Following the event, attendees explored the experience zone for hands-on demonstrations of the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds4 series.

▲ The product experience zone attracts visitors at Galaxy Unpacked 2026.

“What stood out the most was Galaxy S26 Ultra and all of its new features,” said Kara Lewis, a content creator and member of Team Galaxy from the United States. “My favorite has to be Privacy Display on Galaxy S26 Ultra — just turning it on and off makes it so easy to hide sensitive information, like bank account details, while on the go.”

▲ Kara Lewis, a content creator and member of Team Galaxy from the U.S.

“It was my fifth Unpacked, and I still get excited every year about the new AI features and devices,” said Timos Kouremenos, a tech journalist from Greece. “With Galaxy AI’s Now Nudge, it really feels like the smartphone becomes my agent.

▲ Timos Kouremenos, a tech journalist from Greece

“It was surprising to see how quickly Creative Studio creates stickers with AI,” said Oksana Bykova, a Samsung Members from the U.S. “As a mother of three, I am sure that I will be playing around with the feature with my kids every day.”

“I loved how clearly the other person could hear me with Super Clear Call on the Galaxy Buds4 series,” said Gerson Manzanares, a Samsung Members from Nicaragua. “I can now call anyone with my earbuds wherever I am, without feeling distracted.”

▲ (From left) Oksana Bykova, a Samsung Members from the U.S., and Gerson Manzanares, a Samsung Members from Nicaragua

With the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds4 series, Samsung continues its shift toward AI as infrastructure — technology that works quietly in the background to support daily life. By combining personalization, performance and protection, Galaxy AI delivers a more seamless and intuitive mobile experience.

The Galaxy S26 series was engineered with Samsung’s most advanced capabilities working together as one: incredible performance, an industry-leading camera system and Galaxy AI. This provides a strong foundation that gives Galaxy S26 users the confidence to depend on their phone throughout the day without compromising security or privacy.

Building on Samsung’s decades of innovation in display technology, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces the world’s first built-in Privacy Display for mobile phones to unlock a new class of display experiences and reinforce Samsung’s commitment to privacy at a pixel level. Galaxy S26 Ultra also delivers a customized chipset and upgraded thermal management that enable faster and more powerful AI — all wrapped up in the slimmest Ultra yet.

Together, these choices allow the Galaxy S26 series to deliver the most powerful Galaxy experience yet.

“We believe AI should be something people can depend on every day, designed to work consistently for everyone and without the need for expertise,” said TM Roh, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Head of Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy S26 series, we focused on making AI feel effortless, working quietly in the background so people can focus on what matters.”

Powerful Performance Designed Around Everyday Use

 Engineered for all-day performance, the Galaxy S26 series is built on the most powerful hardware ever on a Galaxy S series, powered by a customized chipset. Across the line-up, the Galaxy S26 series is engineered for AI performance, power efficiency and thermal management, ensuring demanding tasks run smoothly and consistently, so users can rely on their device when it matters.

On Galaxy S26 Ultra, a customized mobile processor — Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy[2] — delivers the best performance ever in its class with significant gains across CPU, GPU, and NPU to support faster, smoother experiences that keep up throughout the day.

A CPU performance increase of up to 19%[3] means Galaxy S26 Ultra responds more quickly and handles complex workloads intelligently, even when multiple tasks are running at once. A 39% improvement in NPU performance powers always-on Galaxy AI features that run seamlessly, allowing users to move between tasks without lag or interruption. A 24% boost in GPU performance delivers richer visuals and more fluid gameplay.

To sustain this level of performance, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a redesigned Vapor Chamber with thermal interface material positioned along the sides of the processor, allowing heat to spread more efficiently across a larger surface area. This improves[4] heat dissipation to keep the device cool and consistent, even during demanding activities such as gaming, multitasking and video capture. To support all-day use, Galaxy S26 Ultra also brings Super Fast Charging 3.0, minimizing downtime by reaching up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes.[5]

Embedded into the processor, Samsung’s proprietary technologies enhance visual performance. ProScaler[6] improves image scaling so photos and videos appear richer and clearer at a glance by sharpening text and fine detail while smoothing textures. Additionally, Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe) delivers more subtle and lifelike colors thanks to image processing with four times the precision compared to the previous generation.

Taken together, these advancements deliver dependable all-day performance, making every action feel effortless.

Galaxy’s Industry-Leading Camera System

 The Galaxy S26 series brings the same focus on intuitive interaction to creativity and productivity, delivered through the industry-leading Galaxy camera system. With an approach that integrates capturing stunning photos and videos, editing and sharing into a single, seamless experience, creativity feels more natural and accessible even without professional tools or technical knowledge.

On Galaxy S26 Ultra, wider camera apertures[7] allow more light to reach the sensor, delivering clearer photos with richer details in low-light conditions, even when zoomed in. Enhanced Nightography Video[8] keeps footage clearer and more vibrant even in dim scenes, whether capturing concerts indoors or recording moments around a campfire after sunset. Video capture is further enhanced with upgraded Super Steady[9] capabilities, which add a horizontal lock option for greater stability and to make consistent framing easier to achieve, even with bumpy trails or fast-paced activities. Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first Galaxy device to support APV, a new professional-grade video codec designed to deliver efficient compression for high-quality production workflows. Optimized for advanced creators, it ensures visually lossless video quality that stays true even after repeated editing.

Improvements to the AI ISP[10] now extend to the selfie camera, capturing more natural skin tones and finer detail in mixed lighting.

Editing photos and videos is just as easy and straightforward, with AI-powered tools built into familiar workflows so users can make changes quickly and unlock their creativity without design expertise.

With the upgraded Photo Assist[11] suite, users can simply describe what they want to change in their own words. Changing the scene from day to night is just a matter of asking. It can also add to images and restore missing parts of objects like a bite taken out of a cake. Personal details, such as a spill on clothing, can also be cleaned up with Galaxy AI’s new ability to change outfits in photos. Edits can now be made continuously, reviewed step by step, and easily adjusted or undone along the way, making the process feel fluid rather than final.

Creative Studio[12] builds on this simplicity by bringing creation and customization into one integrated space, making it easy to act on ideas when inspiration strikes. Starting from a sketch, photo or prompt, users can quickly turn ideas into polished visuals — from stickers and invitations to personalized wallpapers — and refine or share them without switching tools or interrupting creative flow.

The Galaxy S26 series also simplifies frequent visual tasks with AI-powered tools like the Document Scan, which removes distortions and distractions such as creases or fingers to deliver clean scans instantly. Multiple images can be organized automatically into a single PDF, making it easy to digitize receipts, forms or notes.

The Most Intuitive Galaxy AI Experience Yet

 The Galaxy S26 series is designed to make frequently used experiences feel straightforward and user-friendly, with Galaxy AI reducing the steps between intent and action. It works more proactively and seamlessly on the user’s behalf based on context, surfacing the right support at the right moment and automating tasks with minimal manual input. As the technology fades and handles tasks in the background, users can focus on the results.

With Now Nudge,[13] timely and relevant suggestions help users stay in the flow without being distracted. If a friend asks for photos from a recent trip, Galaxy S26 automatically suggests photos from the Gallery, removing the need to search through albums or switch between apps. When receiving a message about a meeting, Galaxy S26 can recognize related Calendar entries and check for conflicts.

On the Galaxy S26 series, Now Brief[14] has become more proactive and personalized.[15] It surfaces timely reminders for important events – from reservations to travel updates – based on personal context, helping users stay organized throughout the day.

Searching for information is also easier than ever. Circle to Search with Google[16] on the Galaxy S26 series has been upgraded with enhanced multi-object recognition, so users can now explore more deeply on multiple parts of an image at once. If users spot a look they love, the feature also identifies everything from the jacket to the shoes, all in one search.

Galaxy S26 series features an upgraded Bixby[17] as a conversational device agent, making it more intuitive and easier than ever to interact with Galaxy devices. Users can navigate their devices and adjust settings using natural language, without the need for exact terminology or commands.

Alongside Bixby, Galaxy S26 series integrates a choice of agents, including Gemini and Perplexity. Once set up, tasks can be completed with a single button press or voice prompt. Galaxy S26 can also handle multi-step tasks in the background, streamlining the process on the user’s behalf. For example, with Gemini, booking a taxi[18] is as simple as asking, reviewing the details and tapping confirm. These agents support tasks such as searching and carrying out complex tasks seamlessly across apps through natural interaction.

Together, these proactive, personalized and adaptive experiences lay the foundation for more agentic AI experiences — setting the stage for Galaxy devices to become trusted companions that understand and anticipate user needs.

Layers of Protection in the Age of AI

 As mobile experiences become more personalized thanks to AI, protecting user privacy becomes even more critical. Samsung builds protection into every layer of Galaxy S26, keeping personal data secure while giving users transparency and control over how their information is used.

Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces privacy at the pixel level with the mobile industry’s first built-in Privacy Display,[19] a breakthrough in display technology that fundamentally changes how privacy can be protected on a phone. Designed for everyday situations like transit, cafés and shared environments, Privacy Display goes beyond anything previously available on mobile devices — hardware and software working as one to protect privacy without compromising the viewing experience.

By controlling how pixels disperse light, the display keeps content clear, bright and comfortable for the user in everyday use, while limiting what others can see. Unlike traditional stick-on privacy films, Galaxy’s integrated Privacy Display preserves full viewing quality from all directions when off, and limits visibility for others from side viewing angles when activated, even when switching between portrait and landscape orientation.

Users can customize when it turns on — such as when entering PINs, patterns and passwords or opening selected apps — and adjust privacy levels depending on the situation. Partial Screen Privacy intelligently limits visibility for notification pop-ups, while Maximum Privacy Protection further obscures side views for added discretion, all with minimal impact on power or usability.

The Galaxy S26 series also brings smarter software safeguards that work quietly in the background. AI-powered Call Screening[20] identifies unknown callers and summarizes intent, making it easier to safely manage calls. Privacy Alerts use machine learning to proactively notify users in real time when apps with device admin privileges unnecessarily attempt to access sensitive data, such as precise location, call logs or contacts. These alerts help users quickly understand when apps are seeking deeper access, so they can manage permissions with greater clarity and control.

Private Album, built directly into Gallery, lets users easily hide selected photos and videos without creating a separate folder or signing into a Samsung Account. To stay ahead of emerging threats, Galaxy S26 also extends Samsung’s innovation in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to critical system processes, including software verification and firmware protection, strengthening device integrity for the future.

New updates to Knox Matrix further strengthen protection across connected Galaxy devices, adding PQC-enabled end-to-end encryption for more services such as eSIM transfers and clearer visibility into firmware update status across the ecosystem through Security Status of Your Devices.

These experiences are supported by Samsung Knox, the multi-layer security platform that protects Galaxy devices from the chip level up. For on-device Galaxy AI, Personal Data Engine (PDE) enables context-aware, personalized AI experiences. To keep this process safe, Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) encrypts each app’s data, while Knox Vault adds a physical layer of protection that isolates sensitive data inside its own secure hardware. Together with settings that let users choose how AI features operate, Galaxy S26 combines hardware and software to deliver a comprehensive, system-wide approach designed to keep personal data protected.

These updates build on Galaxy’s existing security and privacy portfolio which includes Auto Blocker, Theft Protection, Private Sharing, Secure Wi-Fi and more. These layers of protection are designed to give users greater transparency, choice and control through Samsung’s continued mobile security innovation in the age of AI. And with seven years of security updates, Galaxy S26 helps keep these layers resilient over time — supporting longer, more confident use well into the years ahead.

Galaxy S26’s ease of use continues even when the phone is out of reach. The new Galaxy Buds4 series is a natural companion to Galaxy S26, extending everyday experiences beyond the phone while delivering rich and immersive hi-fi sound. When Galaxy S26 is paired with Galaxy Buds4, interactions can continue naturally in moments when using hands isn’t practical. Users can activate AI agents[21] with their voices, manage calls through simple Head Gestures[22] on Buds4 Pro, and stay connected without breaking their flow.

Availability

Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26+ and S26 will be available for pre-order starting from February 25. The Galaxy S26 series features a unified design language across all models, with shared color options including Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue[23] alongside the Samsung.com-exclusive[24] Pink Gold and Silver Shadow.

For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+[25] offers comprehensive coverage optimized to users’ device needs, including fast repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty, and certified expert support available both at home and abroad. This ensures a seamless mobile lifestyle and provides lasting protection that safeguards the value of Galaxy devices.

Specification Table

* Specifications may vary by market.

* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

[1] Samsung Account login may be required to use certain AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and phone carrier.

[2] Snapdragon branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.

[3] AP performance improvements shown compared to Galaxy S25 Ultra. Actual performance will depend on user environment, conditions and pre-installed software and applications.

[4] Vapor Chamber performance improvements shown compared to Galaxy S25 Ultra. Actual performance will depend on user environment, conditions and pre-installed software and applications.

[5] Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 4,855 mAh for Galaxy S26 Ultra.

[6] ProScaler feature is supported on Galaxy S26+ and S26 Ultra models. Image quality can be enhanced up to QHD+, depending on the screen resolution setting of the device.

[7] 47% more light on 200MP Wide camera and 37% on 50MP Telephoto (5x Optical Zoom) camera on Galaxy S26 Ultra. Brightness improvements shown are compared to Galaxy S25 Ultra.

[8] Results may vary depending on light condition and/or shooting conditions including multiple subjects, being out of focus or moving subjects.

[9] Super Steady results may vary depending on editing method and/or shooting conditions.

[10] Results may vary depending on light condition and/or shooting conditions including multiple subjects, being out of focus or moving subjects.

[11] Photo Assist may require a network connection and Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language or device model. Photo Assist may result in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.

[12] Creative Studio feature requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language or device model. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed. Sticker sets only compatible with Samsung Keyboard and can only be shared via Quick Share feature with other Galaxy devices that have One UI 5.0 or later installed and Quick Share app version 13.8.50.x or later.

[13] Now Nudge feature requires a Samsung Account login. Available functions and features may vary by country, region, and language. Text message prompts currently available with Samsung Messages and certain third-party messaging apps including Google Messages and Google Chat. Based on availability at the time of product launch. May change without notice. Share photos in Now Nudge works by analyzing available image content. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.

[14] Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model, apps. Some features may require a network connection. The description of photos provided by moments may not align with the user’s intent. Notifications must be switched on to be used as the recalled data. Recalled data available from supported app notifications, Messages, Gmail and Samsung Wallet and data collected from Gmail is only applicable if the user consents to Personal Data Intelligent’s Gmail read permission. Recalled data for reservation details only available from reservation confirmation messages.

[15] Compared to previous models.

[16] Circle to Search is a trademark of Google LLC. Results for illustrative purposes only. Available on select devices and internet connection required. Works on compatible apps and surfaces. Result may vary depending on visual matches. Check responses for accuracy.

[17] Bixby service availability requires Samsung Account login and data connection. Available functions and features may vary by country, region, and language. Bixby only recognizes certain accents and dialects of English (UK), English (US), English (India), French (France), German (Germany), Italian (Italy), Japanese (Japan), Korean (South Korea), Mandarin Chinese (China), Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), and Spanish (Latin America). Other supported languages may be added in the future. Not all accents, dialects, and expressions may be recognized, and actual performance may vary depending on pronunciation, voice level, and the surrounding environment. Use of Bixby may be limited in certain situations such as when recording media (Video/Game/Voice), during calls, Maximum Power Saving mode, Emergency mode and Samsung Kids. Service availability may vary by country/service provider/language/device model/OS version. Bixby controls selected apps, other apps to be supported. To control SmartThings enabled devices with Bixby, first connect the devices to the SmartThings app. For more information, visit the SmartThings website (www.samsung.com/smartthings).

[18] Availability may vary by country, region, language device model, OS/One UI version.

[19] Privacy Display feature controls the screen’s viewing range to limit peripheral vision. Some changes in image quality may occur outside the viewing range. When activated, some information may still be visible to others depending on the viewing environment, such as angle or brightness. Caution is advised when exposing sensitive information.

[20] Call Screening feature for Call Assist may vary by country, region and language. Feature may need to be manually activated in select regions.

[21] AI features require compatible Samsung Galaxy phone.

[22] Default is set as off. User can turn on Head Gestures through the Galaxy Wearable app.

[23] Color availability may vary depending on country or carrier.

[24] Exclusively available on Samsung.com.

[25] Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefit, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/samsung-care-plus/.

Marking the third generation of Samsung’s Galaxy AI phone, the Galaxy S26 series combines the most powerful performance in Galaxy S series history with the most intuitive AI experience to date.

Samsung Newsroom got an early hands-on look at the Galaxy S26 series during Galaxy Unpacked 2026.

▲ The Galaxy S26 series (from left) Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26

Design: Sleeker and Lighter Than Ever

The Galaxy S26 series makes a strong first impression with its refined, modern aesthetic, featuring a rounded curvature and cohesive color palette that create a unified design identity across the lineup.

▲ The Galaxy S26 series (from left) Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26

The slimmer, lighter build is equally notable. Galaxy S26 Ultra is 0.3 mm thinner than its predecessor and weighs 214 grams. Its slimmer profile enhances portability while maintaining a secure, comfortable grip.

▲ The Galaxy S26 series comes in Cobalt Violet, Black, Sky Blue and White.

Display: Privacy From Every Angle

Debuting on Galaxy S26 Ultra, Privacy Display limits side-angle viewing without the need for a separate screen protector. The display remains clear from the front while restricting visibility from the sides to help shield on-screen content from nearby onlookers.

Users can also assign the Privacy Display to the side button’s double-press function for greater convenience. Even when viewed from the side, content stays concealed — making it especially useful on crowded public transportation or in elevators.

▲ Users can adjust the level of privacy protection in the settings and apply it selectively when entering a PIN, pattern or password, or when notification pop-ups appear.

Galaxy AI: Intuitive AI for Everyone

Galaxy AI stands out on the Galaxy S26 series, combining enhanced contextual awareness with proactive suggestions to simplify everyday tasks.

The new Now Nudge feature reduces app switching by surfacing relevant information in context. When a friend asks about evening plans on messaging apps, Galaxy AI checks the calendar, detects conflicts and displays a tailored “Nudge” pop-up.

A fan favorite since its debut on the Galaxy S24 series, Circle to Search has evolved to support multi-element searches. Circling a celebrity’s outfit, for example, generates curated pieces to recreate the look.

The Galaxy S26 series further expands its AI ecosystem with Bixby, Gemini and Perplexity. For example, users can use natural language commands to adjust settings, allowing them to effortlessly control their device even without knowing exact setting names or specific commands. Saying “My eyes feel tired,” for instance, prompts Bixby to suggest activating Eye comfort shield — eliminating the need to navigate complex menus. Together, these agents understand user intent and context to streamline daily routines, reducing steps and delivering a more seamless, efficient mobile experience.

Camera: Pro-Level Capture, Powered by AI

The Galaxy S26 series marks another leap in mobile photography. Powered by advanced AI, the device enables effortless capture and editing of high-quality content — no expertise required.

Galaxy S26 Ultra features a 200-megapixel (MP) wide-angle camera and a 50 MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom and 10x optical-quality zoom, complemented by a wider aperture for enhanced low-light clarity. With upgraded Nightography, even a recreated San Francisco nightscape inside the exhibition hall appeared vivid and detailed despite dim surroundings. The AI ISP (Image Signal Processor), previously used in the rear camera, also extends to the front camera, capturing fine details — from individual hair strands to eyebrows — while preserving natural skin tones.

▲ Enhanced Nightography ensures clear filming even in low-light settings. A view of the exhibition space (top) and a video taken with Galaxy S26 Ultra. (bottom).

Beyond capture, the Galaxy S26 series expands creative possibilities. Powered by Galaxy AI, it provides an intuitive environment that turns ideas into finished results in moments.

The upgraded Photo Assist goes further — removing unwanted objects and naturally adding new elements. When prompted to restore a cake with a bite taken out, AI seamlessly reconstructs it as if untouched. The feature can also transform day into night or adjust wardrobe details to match the mood, enabling faster, more effortless editing.

▲ Photo Assist restores images using AI-powered editing.

With Creative Studio, edited photos can be turned into polished content. Users can simply type a prompt — such as “Please draw me a dog” — to generate a context-based sticker set, ready for use in messages or when editing photos. The feature also supports invitations, profile cards and wallpapers, expanding everyday creative possibilities in the future.

Starting with the Galaxy S24 series, the Galaxy S series has ushered in a new era of AI phones. With the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung introduces its third-generation AI phone — delivering personalized experiences that go beyond intent recognition. Featuring the most powerful performance and the most intuitive Galaxy AI to date, the Galaxy S26 series opens a new chapter in mobile innovation.