Guided by the message “Open always wins,” Samsung brought new perspectives to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, opening up podium celebrations, broadcast storytelling, athlete connection and everyday interactions in ways that felt more personal, more immersive and more human than ever before.

Key Milano Cortina 2026 numbers include:

• Victory Selfie: Victory Selfie was incorporated into the official medal ceremony across all events at the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026

• Team Samsung Galaxy: 73 athletes across 18 countries shared their “Open always wins” stories throughout Milano Cortina 2026

• Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition distributed: To nearly 3,800 Olympic and Paralympic athletes

• Opening Ceremony broadcast integration: 26 Galaxy S25 Ultra devices embedded with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS)

• Interpreter-enabled Games-time support: 850+ Galaxy devices embedded with Interpreter provided across the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games footprint

• Galaxy Charging Station: 64 stations helped spectators stay powered throughout the Games

Samsung Newsroom revisits the defining milestones that shaped Milano Cortina 2026.

Winning Together: Victory Selfie Becomes Iconic Podium Culture

On the Olympic podium, the instinct to share a once-in-a-lifetime achievement comes naturally. Victory Selfie captures that instinct — as a real, athlete-shaped moment of connection, self-expression and shared celebration.

Gold medalists of Team United States, silver medalists of Team Japan and bronze medalists of Team Italy pose for a Victory Selfie after the figure skating team event. (Photo by Andreas Rentz / Getty Images)

 

At Milano Cortina 2026, Victory Selfie continued to grow into an iconic podium culture, reflecting how athletes choose to remember and share the emotion of the moment — whether standing alone, side by side or as a team. Powered by the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition, medalists captured their victories during the medal ceremony, turning medal moments into personal, shareable memories in their own voice.

Across the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Victory Selfie became an official part of the medal ceremony across all events — reinforcing the podium as more than a ceremonial stage, but a cultural moment of unity, gratitude and celebration.

In a broader sense, Victory Selfie also reflected the spirit of Openness — showing that the Olympic and Paralympic Games are not only about competition, but about sportsmanship, connection and the moments that bring people together beyond results.

That same spirit continued beyond the podium, as Team Samsung Galaxy shared “Open always wins” stories throughout the season, with 73 members across 18 countries bringing fans closer to the athletes and moments behind the Games.

Nearly 3,800 Athletes Connected With the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition

For Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung provided the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition to nearly 3,800 Olympians and Paralympians. Designed as an intelligent, pocket-sized companion, the Olympic Edition supported athletes from Olympic Village life to medal ceremonies.

U.S. figure skaters, including Team Samsung Galaxy star and Milano Cortina 2026 gold medalist Alysa Liu, show off their Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition at the Samsung Open Station in the Olympic Village

 

With Galaxy AI at the core, the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition helped athletes communicate, create and share more seamlessly throughout their Games-time journey. Key capabilities included:

• Interpreter, powered by Galaxy AI — enabling real-time translation processed directly on device, helping conversations stay natural

• Dual Recording, allowing athletes to capture both sides of a moment at once — their reactions and the world around them — for richer, more immersive storytelling

• Photo Assist, supporting fast, high-quality edits that helped athletes be creative and share memorable images with ease

• Now Brief, delivering personalized daily updates such as reminders and calendar events to support a smoother routine amid an intense schedule

• Games-time athlete services and connectivity support, including access to Athlete365, the Galaxy Athlete Card helping athletes stay informed and connected throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games

The device’s distinctive design — combining Samsung’s signature blue with a custom gold frame — symbolized both unity and excellence, reflecting the spirit of Milano Cortina 2026.

Dynamic Perspectives: Galaxy Devices Integrated Into the Opening Ceremony Broadcast

Milano Cortina 2026 also expanded how fans experienced Games-time storytelling. In collaboration with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), Samsung helped introduce new, immersive perspectives into the Opening Ceremony broadcast environment.

For the first time at an Olympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony, 26 Galaxy S25 Ultra devices were embedded across the live broadcast setting. Positioned across athlete entrance tunnels, stadium stands and dynamic camera rig placements, Galaxy devices captured immersive views wirelessly and in real time — complementing traditional broadcast infrastructure and helping viewers worldwide feel closer to the emotion of the moment.

Galaxy S25 Ultra helped film the live broadcast of the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 at San Siro Olympic Stadium. (Photo by Getty Images)

From the Parade of Nations to behind-the-scenes celebrations, athletes also used their Galaxy devices to capture and share personal Opening Ceremony memories — extending the experience beyond the stadium into the hands of the people who lived it.

Beyond the Spotlight: Connecting Everyday Moments Across the Olympic and Paralympic Games

Across Olympic Villages and venues, Samsung equipped select Games-time support teams with Galaxy devices featuring Interpreter, powered by Galaxy AI — enabling real-time translation processed directly on device, supporting day-to-day interactions without relying on network connectivity across geographically distributed mountain locations.

Team Samsung Galaxy figure skater Daniel Grassl of Italy uses Galaxy AI-powered Interpreter at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Village.

 

In total, more than 850 Galaxy devices embedded with Interpreter were provided to a select group of volunteers to support Games-time assistance across the event footprint, helping conversations stay smooth, welcoming and human-centered.

Inside competition venues, Samsung technology also supported operations and fair play. Samsung monitors supported officiating in Short-Track Speed Skating disciplines, contributing to operational clarity and consistency during competition.

Around host cities and venues, 64 Galaxy Charging Stations helped spectators stay powered during long event days, ensuring meaningful moments could be captured and shared in real time, without interruption.

Samsung House: A Central Hub for Openness

At the heart of Milan, inside the historic Palazzo Serbelloni, Samsung House became a central gathering space for athletes, media and partners throughout both the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

A view of Samsung House, inside the historic Palazzo Serbelloni, in Milan, Italy

 

It hosted National Olympic Committee events, live competition viewings, athlete visits, media engagements and stakeholder meetings — creating space for reflection and shared celebration beyond competition.

The venue also showcased Samsung’s Olympic legacy through the Olympic Edition Gallery, featuring Olympic Editions from across the years and bridging nearly four decades of innovation with the present moment of Milano Cortina 2026.

Norwegian speed skater and 5000m gold medalist Sander Eitrem visits Samsung House and takes a Victory Profile photo with Galaxy S25 Ultra.

 

Meanwhile, Victory Profile portrait series was captured on Galaxy S25 Ultra — featuring athletes throughout Milano Cortina 2026 — and visitors were invited to step into the experience themselves, using the same device to capture their own moment.

Opening Up the Future: From Milano Cortina 2026 to LA28

From Olympic Editions distributed to thousands of athletes, to broadcast integration, AI-powered communication tools and Games-time operational support, Samsung’s role at Milano Cortina 2026 reflected the evolving way the world experiences the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As Milano Cortina 2026 came to a close, attention began to shift toward what comes next. Building on the spirit of “Open always wins,” Samsung will continue to open up the Olympic and Paralympic experience with new perspectives, new technologies and new generations, ensuring that connection remains at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic Games through LA28.

For the first time at the Paralympic Games, Victory Selfie expanded beyond individual and pair events to all events — including team competitions. Victory Selfie was incorporated into the official medal ceremony across all events as well at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Every medal-winning athlete had the opportunity to share their individual or team triumph from their own perspective. All Victory Selfie images were taken with the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition.

Victory Selfie represents how the Paralympic Games continue to evolve — honoring tradition while embracing new ways to enhance athlete and fan experiences during the Games.

By placing the phone in athletes’ hands, Samsung reinforces a simple belief: athletes should be able to tell their own stories.

Bronze medalist Andrew Kurka of Team United States takes a Victory Selfie with gold medalist Jeroen Kampschreur of Team Netherlands and silver medalist Jesper Pedersen of Team Norway after the men’s para alpine skiing super-G sitting event. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg / Getty Images)

 

Gold medalist Emanuel Perathoner of Team Italy, silver medalist Ben Tudhope of Team Australia and bronze medalist Jehyuk Lee of Team Republic of Korea pose for a Victory Selfie after the men’s para snowboard cross SB-LL2 event. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg / Getty Images)

 

Gold medalist Oleksandra Kononova of Team Ukraine, silver medalist Natalie Wilkie of Team Canada and bronze medalist Liudmyla Liashenko of Team Ukraine take a Victory Selfie after the women’s para biathlon sprint standing event. (Photo by Luke Hales / Getty Images)

 

Gold medalist Johannes Aigner of Team Austria and his guide Nico Haberl, silver medalist Giacomo Bertagnolli of Team Italy and his guide Andrea Ravelli and bronze medalist Kalle Ericsson of Team Canada and his guide Sierra Smith pose for a Victory Selfie after the men’s para alpine skiing super-G vision impaired event. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg / Getty Images)

After a life-changing snowmobile accident in 2008 that resulted in the loss of his left leg, Schultz didn’t give up on his passion to race on the snow. Dissatisfied with existing prosthetics, he built his own durable and versatile mechanical knee that allowed him to endure the competitive and rigorous training and dominate the world of para-sports with historic records of winning a gold and two silver medals during PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games. He also started his company, giving other action-sport and high-impact athletes access to prosthetics specifically designed for the intensity of their sports, lowering the performance barrier for the para-athlete community.

Mike Schultz’s Victory Profile

Q: The Milano Cortina 2026 is your third, and perhaps your last, Paralympic Games as a professional snowboarder. How do you feel?

A: Every Paralympic Winter Games has its own feel and motivation towards it. I have two goals while here. The first: I am very driven to work my way to another couple podium finishes. My strategy has been to find a good balance of progress and risk management to achieve my peak here at the Paralympic Games, which has been working well so far as I won my last World Cup before traveling here. Also, since this will be my last games, the other, broader goal is to appreciate every moment and experience of Milano Cortina 2026, win or lose.

Q: How does technology support your training and recovery? Were there any specific tools or devices that made a difference in your training or performance?

A: Technology isn’t separate from performance; it’s integrated into it. We record almost every run-through on my Galaxy Z Fold7 and review it immediately, often in slow motion, to analyze timing and execution. That immediate feedback loop helps refine details before the next session.

Recovery is also non-negotiable. I track sleep, recovery metrics, and training load to make smarter decisions about when to push and when to pull back. I use my Galaxy devices to help me monitor everyday conditions so I can stay balanced through intense cycles.

Q: You’ve also inspired the world with your innovative and versatile prosthetic. How did you come up with the idea of inventing your own prosthetics and where did you get the inspiration?

A: My second passion in life is building and creating things in my workshop. It was a natural response for me to design a better prosthetic leg after I realized there were very limited options available. I used all the experiences I accrued up to that point to solve this problem. I took knowledge from my previous jobs in metal fabrication, my understanding of body mechanics from physical training and all the time I spent working on the suspension components on my motocross bikes and race snowmobiles. I was kind of the perfect person to work on this project.

Mike Schultz competes during the Para Snowboard Men’s Snowboard Cross SB-LL1 at Cortina Para Snowboard Park on March 07, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Q: It’s not easy for an athlete to open up his own performance recipe to potential rivals. What was the motivation for you to disclose your prosthetic technology?

A: There are definitely moments when the “competitive athlete” in me questions this move, but I’m always thinking about the bigger picture working to progress whatever I’m involved in. Plus, it feels pretty good when you know you’re making a positive influence on the people around you.

Q: Mental training is important as much as physical training. How do you prepare mentally for each important competition?

A: Mental preparation starts long before arrival. Staying grounded and present is essential. Especially for global competitions like Paralympic Games, I try to focus on the snowboarding itself, and the things related specifically to that. When I’m on snow, I always have a purpose. There is a lot of extra noise and distraction with all that goes with traveling with a team and training/competing that can pull at you in different ways. Another way I cope with this is to pull up my favorite playlist on my Galaxy Z Fold7, pop in my Galaxy Buds3 Pro, and return to my own world to calm my thoughts.

Q: Returning to competition just seven months after the accident is not something that one can imagine easily, especially when it includes winning a silver medal. How did you manage to recover, both physically and mentally, in such a short amount of time?

A: I guess I used my sport and the creation of my prosthetics as a coping tool. I went through the typical physical recovery process that I’ve been through many times throughout my career, but of course this one was far more difficult both mentally and physically. I told myself early on that I was going to make something good come out of this bad situation. I put my energy into sport and recovery and focused on moving in a positive direction instead of focusing on the negative.

Mike Schultz is a Team Samsung Galaxy member for Milano Cortina 2026.

Q: You are also sharing your stories as a part of Team Samsung Galaxy, a group of athletes whose journey embodies “Openness.” What does “Openness” mean to you?

A: It’s always a plus when you partner with companies that align well with what you’re doing. I’ve used Samsung mobile devices for several years and they are integrated into my daily life, my training and preparation for my sport. Openness, to me, means there are no limits to my thoughts and goals. I am always open-minded in sport, business and life.  Anything is achievable if you’re motivated enough.

Q: You’ve announced that you will retire after Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. What is your next “Monster Project?”

A: It’s hard to accept and say out loud that I’m retiring from snowboarding since it has been a huge priority in my life for the last 12 years. It has opened many opportunities in different ways. But this is the time for me to make a shift and put more effort into my company and have the ability to spend more time at home with my family. I look forward to new innovations within the prosthetics we build and to have some time to actually take a real vacation!

Q: Any message you’d like to share with your fellow Paralympians and future athletes?

A: Dream big, work hard and enjoy the RIDE! The harder you work for something, the better it feels when you achieve what you set out to do.

Redefining What’s Possible

At Milano Cortina 2026, Mike Schultz represents more than athletic excellence. He represents resilience, ingenuity and the belief that with an open mind, anything is possible. Through engineering, performance and athlete-led storytelling, Schultz embodies the spirit of the Paralympic Movement – challenging perceptions, opening new perspectives and redefining what performance looks like, both on the mountain and beyond it.

Team USA silver medalist and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Alex Hall captures the moment with his Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition at the Hwaiting Night event.

The guest list featured more than 130 attendees, including a world-renowned freestyle skier Alex Hall, Italy’s snowboarding sensation Ian Matteoli, a Swiss snowboarder and content creator Nicolas Huber and an Italian lifestyle influencer Ludovica Frasca.

Inspired by the Korean expression “Hwaiting” — a phrase used to cheer someone on and wish them strength — the event created a space where sport, culture and Samsung Galaxy technology came together in support of the Olympic movement.

French freestyle skier Tess Ledeux shares her inspiring journey with fans and fellow Team Samsung Galaxy athletes at Samsung House during the Hwaiting Night event.

At the event, attendees participated in a range of interactive programs, including guided tours around Samsung House, listening to the heartfelt stories of fellow athletes sharing their road to the Olympics. The program also featured TeamGalaxy content captured throughout the athletes’ Olympic Games experience, before wrapping up with attendees watching live games on the big screen to cheer for their home-country teams.

Team Samsung Galaxy athletes connect at Samsung House during the Hwaiting Night event.

Through the Hwaiting Night event, Samsung brought together athletes, influencers and creators at the heart of Milano Cortina 2026. The evening was more than a celebration. It embodied Samsung’s belief that openness creates connection, fostering shared experiences that connect people across cultures and languages — demonstrating that “Open always wins.”

Team USA figure skater and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Ilia Malinin poses for a Victory Profile during the Hwaiting Night event.

Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Anna Gasser enjoys a night at Samsung House for the Hwaiting Night event.

Team Italy and Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Miro Tabanelli shows off his limited-edition Samsung Milano Cortina 2026 pins during the Hwaiting Night event.

Galaxy S25 Ultra devices were embedded within the Opening Ceremony to capture dynamic perspectives.

The Opening Ceremony offered an early glimpse of that innovation, with Galaxy S25 Ultra devices integrated into the live broadcast, delivering dynamic perspectives alongside traditional broadcast cameras. On the podium, medalists captured their victories through the Victory Selfie shot on the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition — an authentic moment that has become an iconic part of the medal-winning experience.

But connection extends far beyond the spotlight. From athletes mingling in the Olympic Village to volunteers guiding visitors through unfamiliar cities, Samsung’s mobile technology is supporting the everyday interactions that define Milano Cortina 2026.

Turning Language Barriers Into Moments of Connection

To support seamless communication across venues — including remote mountain locations — Samsung equipped volunteers with Galaxy devices featuring Galaxy AI-powered, on-device Interpreter.

For Emmanuel Mantilla Jr., a volunteer from the Philippines supporting National Olympic Committees in the Olympic Village, language differences once meant hesitation.

Mantilla believes the Olympic Games are “like another universal language,” bringing people from different cultures together in shared moments.

“English is widely spoken, but not everyone feels confident using it,” Mantilla said. “Before, I would hesitate. I would look for someone else who spoke their language and wait for that person to assist.”

Now Interpreter has changed his approach. “Instead of waiting silently, I approach them directly and ask how I can help. The confidence is there now.”

Emmanuel Mantilla Jr., who volunteered for the Olympic Games twice in a row, starting from Paris, uses Interpreter to guide visitors from all around the world.

Mantilla recalls one memorable moment during his volunteer work. At a tram stop, a spectator asked for directions to the ice hockey arena — a venue outside Mantilla’s assignment.

“It wasn’t even my venue,” Mantilla recalled. “The person had difficulty speaking English. So, I used the Interpreter to explain which tram to take and how to transfer to the shuttle going to the arena. Before, I might have tried to find someone else to help. Now, I can assist immediately.”

Athletes Connecting Beyond Nationality

Inside the Olympic Village, athletes from around the world are experiencing similar benefits.

Xaverri Williams uses Interpreter to communicate with fellow athletes in the Olympic Village.

Xaverri Williams, representing Trinidad and Tobago in bobsleigh, says the Interpreter feature makes it easier to communicate with athletes outside his delegation.

“The translation feature is especially helpful in understanding people who don’t speak English fluently,” he said. “Having something that helps bridge that gap makes communication much easier and smoother.”

Tomas Guarino uses Interpreter to understand different languages spoken in the Olympic Village.

Spanish figure skater Tomas Guarino Sabate added that even small misunderstandings can interrupt connection.

“Most people speak English,” he said. “But there are definitely moments when someone isn’t as comfortable, or when you don’t know the right word yourself. Having a tool that allows live translation can be really useful in those situations.”

Daniel Grassl believes technology enhances athlete communication and fan engagement.

For Team Samsung Galaxy athlete Daniel Grassl of Italy, mobile technology enhances both athlete-to-athlete interaction and fan engagement. “It allows you to express how you feel and share your day,” he said.

Connecting Beyond the Village

Samsung’s activation across Milano Cortina 2026 continues to connect fans and athletes alike.

Galaxy Charging Stations help visitors stay connected throughout the Olympic Games.

Around the cities, Galaxy Charging Stations allow spectators to recharge their devices and stay connected to the action, ensuring they can share moments in real time with family and friends.

Victory Truck provides immersive Olympic Games Experience to visitors.

Meanwhile, the Samsung Victory Truck is traveling across Milan, Bormio and Livigno, bringing immersive Olympic Games mobile technology experiences directly to fans. Visitors can take photos with AR mascots Tina and Milo and download images via QR code, returning home with a digital keepsake from the Olympic Winter Games.

Connecting Every Moment

As Milano Cortina 2026 continues, Samsung’s innovation is helping ensure that language, geography and distance do not stand in the way of shared experience — connecting athletes and fans in every moment and ensuring the Olympic Winter Games spirit travels further.

On the Olympic podium, that instinct comes into focus. After years of preparation and competition, athletes stand side by side in a moment that is emotional, unfiltered and deeply human; one they want to remember as themselves and share with the people who supported them along the way.

That insight led Samsung to introduce Victory Selfie as part of official medal ceremony programming, bringing the most natural and authentic way athletes capture their lives onto the podium. Shaped by athletes themselves, it has become an iconic part of the medal-winning experience.

Now, at Milano Cortina 2026, Victory Selfie enters its next chapter, powered by the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition.

Not only is it making its Olympic Winter Games debut, it also is expanding beyond individual and pair podium moments to capture shared victory — allowing full teams to celebrate side by side, just as they trained, competed and earned their medals together.

Since its inception at Paris 2024, Victory Selfie has helped this once-in-a-lifetime Olympic moment feel closer and more personal. Nearly 300 Victory Selfies were taken with the Galaxy Z Flip6 Olympic Edition in Paris, capturing the vibrant, diverse personalities of the athletes on the podium.

From spectators seeing the moment captured live to athletes sharing their Victory Selfie image with family, fans and followers around the world, Samsung is helping reinforce the podium as a cultural stage — where sport, self-expression and shared victory come together and where an iconic moment continues to grow beyond the Olympic Winter Games.

Gold medalists of Team United States, silver medalists of Team Japan and bronze medalists of Team Italy pose for a Victory Selfie after the figure skating team event. (Photo by Andreas Rentz / Getty Images)

Gold medalist Sander Eitrem of Team Norway, silver medalist Metodej Jilek of Team Czechia and bronze medalist Riccardo Lorello of Team Italy take a Victory Selfie after the men’s 5,000-meter speedskating event. (Photo by Sarah Stier / Getty Images)

Bronze medalists Justus Strelow, Philipp Nawrath, Vanessa Voigt and Franziska Preuss of Team Germany pose for a Victory Selfie with gold medalists Eric Perrot, Quentin Fillon Maillet, Lou Jeanmonnot and Julia Simon of Team France after the mixed 4×6-kilometer relay biathlon event. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein / Getty Images)

Gold medalist Zuzana Maderova of Team Czechia, silver medalist Sabine Payer of Team Austria and bronze medalist Lucia Dalmasso of Team Italy take a Victory Selfie after the women’s parallel giant slalom event. (Photo by David Ramos / Getty Images)

Samsung out-of-home advertising at Duomo

As part of Samsung’s global “Open always wins” campaign[1] the takeover transforms streets, squares and transit hubs into a living canvas — placing the energy and anticipation of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games directly into the rhythm of city life.

Featuring Team Samsung Galaxy athlete ambassadors, the visuals celebrate the drive, resilience and openness at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The series highlights Italian athletes Jacopo Luchini (Para Snowboard), Flora Tabanelli and Miro Tabanelli (Freestyle Skiing), and Ian Matteoli (Snowboard), enjoying their precious moments on their Olympic journey with selfies captured on the Galaxy Z Flip7.

Samsung out-of-home advertising at San Babila

Running across ten key locations including Duomo di Milano, Pirelli 39, San Babila and Corso Como, the out-of-home advertising brings the excitement of winter sports beyond competition venues and into the heart of the host city. The advertising campaign runs from February 1 to February 28, with select locations including San Babila – Durini until March 15 and Duomo di Milano until March 31.

As Milano Cortina 2026 approaches, Samsung continues to pair its “Open always wins” message with local expression — opening up moments that matter and bringing people closer to the excitement of the Games.

Samsung out-of-home advertising at Porta Venezia

Locations for the out-of-home advertising:

• Duomo di Milano
• Bastioni di Porta Venezia
• Corso Como – Porta Garibaldi
• Pirelli 39
• Cadorna – Via Carducci – San Nicolao
• Via San Paolo
• Corso Venezia – Via Senato
• San Babila – Durini
• Largo La Foppa
• Palazzo Odeon

[1] First introduced at Paris 2024, the theme returns to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as a reflection of Samsung’s belief that, with an open mind, anything is possible.

As the way people experience the Olympic and Paralympic Games continues to evolve beyond a single venue or broadcast moment, this shift is even more pronounced at Milano Cortina 2026 — shaped by geography, distance and multiple host locations. At this year’s XXV Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung’s role focuses on helping bridge these gaps, using technology to make Milano Cortina 2026 moments feel closer and more connected for athletes, fans and the broader Olympic Games community through technologies embedded across Games-time operations, including:

• Delivering dynamic perspectives with Opening Ceremony live broadcast integration: With support from the Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), Galaxy S25 Ultra devices will be embedded within the Opening Ceremony to capture dynamic perspectives alongside established broadcast cameras, expanding coverage, while fully complementing production workflows.
• Enabling seamless on-site communication for volunteers: A select group of volunteers will be equipped with Galaxy devices featuring Interpreter[1], powered by Galaxy AI[2],, to communicate with athletes, officials and visitors with ease. With translations processed directly on device, the experience remains fast and reliable across Milano Cortina 2026’s diverse and distributed environments.
• Supporting officiating and competition monitoring for fair play: Samsung monitors will be deployed across Short-Track Speed Skating disciplines, providing high-quality displays to support operational needs.
• Keeping fan devices powered with Galaxy Charging Stations: Samsung will help people keep their devices powered throughout long competition and event days, enabling them to stay connected throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
• Connecting athletes, media and partners through storytelling at Samsung House: Samsung will host a dedicated hub, where people can come together to experience Samsung’s Olympic Games technology innovation story and share moments, perspectives and conversations as part of the rhythm of the Games.

“At the heart of Samsung’s role at Milano Cortina 2026 is a clear ambition: to connect athletes and fans in every moment, and help remind everyone that the Olympic Games are, above all, about people,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP and Head of Mobile Marketing Center, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “As the way audiences today watch, share and experience the Olympic and Paralympic Games continues to change, mobile technology plays an increasingly important role in helping athletes, fans and communities stay connected — and get closer to the action, the emotion and each other.”

Opening Ceremony Live Broadcast Integration To Deliver Dynamic Perspectives

To support the Opening Ceremony experience, Galaxy devices will be integrated throughout the live broadcast production environment, enabled by the portability, superior camera quality and 5G connectivity of Galaxy S25 Ultra. Positioned alongside established broadcast cameras, the smartphones have been installed across dynamic locations — including jibs above the field and stadium stands, as well as athlete entrance tunnels — capturing immersive, on-site perspectives wirelessly and in real-time without disrupting established broadcast workflows.

Beyond the devices themselves, Samsung is working closely with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Olympic Broadcast Services(OBS) to help ensure Galaxy-based capture integrates seamlessly into the overall live broadcast environment.

Set inside San Siro Stadium, the Opening Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026 will welcome more than 75,000 spectators on Feb. 6, as over 3,500 athletes from over 90 countries enter the stadium to mark the official opening of the Olympic Winter Games. By working closely with OBS to deliver an enhanced view of the Opening Ceremony with Galaxy, Samsung will help connect spectators in the stands with millions more sharing this historic moment across screens and locations around the world.

“The Olympic Games are a celebration of human excellence and unity, bringing athletes and audiences together around the world,” said Yiannis Exarchos, CEO of OBS. “The Opening Ceremony embodies that spirit, and through our partnership with Samsung, we can capture dynamic perspectives that complement our core broadcast coverage. By embracing dedicated mobile storytelling and the way millions of fans experience the Games on their smartphones, we help global viewers feel closer to the energy and emotion of this historic moment.”

Supporting Volunteers, Operations and the Games-Time Experience

Beyond the Opening Ceremony, Galaxy innovation is supporting the everyday operations that help Milano Cortina 2026 run smoothly across venues and host locations.

A select group of volunteers across the Olympic Games will be equipped with Galaxy devices featuring Interpreter, powered by Galaxy AI, to support natural communication between athletes, officials and visitors across languages. With translation processed directly on device, Interpreter enables fast, intuitive conversations and helps volunteers focus on delivering a welcoming, human-centered Games-time experience.

“As we prepare for the most geographically widespread Winter Olympics in history, the role of technology shifts from a simple tool to the very fabric holding our vision together,” said Andrea Varnier, CEO of Milano Cortina 2026. “Samsung’s innovation is fundamental in bridging the distances between our venues, transforming the vast territory of Milano Cortina 2026 into a single, unified arena. Their cutting-edge solutions do more than just support our operations; they redefine how the world perceives the spirit of the Games, ensuring that human connection remains at the heart of this digital evolution.”

In addition, Galaxy Charging Stations at stadiums across host cities will support spectators during long event days, helping to ensure these rare and meaningful Olympic and Paralympic Games moments unfold smoothly on site. This practical support allows people to stay present and engaged during moments that come only every four years.

Inside competition venues, Samsung technology will support officiating and operations. Samsung monitors will be deployed across Short-Track Speed Skating disciplines, providing high-quality displays to support operational needs.

Samsung House: A Central Hub for Connection, Storytelling and Shared Experiences

Located in Milan’s historic Palazzo Serbelloni, Samsung House provides a setting where guests can experience Samsung’s Olympic Games technology innovation history — bringing together the legacy of Samsung’s innovations and how they are brought to life on the ground in Milan as part of the rhythm of the Olympic Games, rather than a standalone showcase.

Throughout Milano Cortina 2026, Samsung House will host a curated program that encourages interaction and shared moments. Moments include National Olympic Committee nights, live competition viewings and displays of the Victory Profile portrait series, creating opportunities for athletes, partners, and media to come together and share perspectives, and celebrate the spirit of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Complementing this atmosphere, Samsung House will also feature hospitality moments curated by Michelin-starred Italian chef Enrico Bartolini, adding a sense of local culture and warmth.

Samsung House officially opens on Feb. 4 and will operate throughout the Olympic Winter Games until Feb. 22. Samsung House will reopen during the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6 to 15. During this period, Samsung House will operate as an invitation-only environment, creating a dedicated space for meaningful connection throughout the Games.

As Samsung looks ahead to the future, Milano Cortina 2026 represents an important chapter in a partnership defined by innovation, athlete empowerment and the ongoing evolution of how global audiences experience the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Through its latest Galaxy technology, Samsung continues to open up Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 — supporting athletes from preparation to the podium and bringing fans closer to the energy, creativity and emotion of the world’s most celebrated winter sporting event.

[1] Interpreter requires Samsung Account login. Certain languages may require language pack download. Service availability may vary by language. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Availability and supported features may vary by country, region or carrier. Availability of supported languages may vary.

[2] 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.

Athletes commemorated these once-in-a-lifetime moments of the Opening Ceremony with their Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition devices. From their first walk-in amid the thunderous roar of the crowd to celebrations with teammates, these special memories from the Parade of Nations were shared from the world’s stage through a closer, more personal view.

As a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, Samsung also collaborated with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) to embed 26 Galaxy S25 Ultra devices across the stadium — from the spectator stands to the very heart of the athlete entrance tunnels — capturing new views alongside conventional broadcast equipment.

From the Opening Ceremony to the stories unfolding behind the scenes, Samsung continues to use mobile innovation to connect athletes and fans in every moment — innovating how we celebrate the Olympic Winter Games.

Take a look at some of the highlights here:

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphones are utilized for the live broadcast of The Opening Ceremony for Milano Cortina 2026 (Credit: Getty Images)

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is utilized for the live broadcast of The Opening Ceremony for Milano Cortina 2026 (Credit: Getty Images).

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is utilized for the live broadcast of The Opening Ceremony for Milano Cortina 2026 (Credit: Getty Images).

Athletes share their experience with fans using the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition (Credit: Getty Images).

Athletes share their experience with fans using the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition (Credit: Getty Images).

Athletes share their experience with fans using the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition smartphones (Credit: Getty Images).

Athletes share their experience with fans using the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition. (Credit: Getty Images).

▲ Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition for Milano Cortina 2026.

Samsung Electronics, a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition[1], exclusively designed for all athletes competing at the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Provided to almost 3,800 Olympians and Paralympians from approximately 90 countries, the special edition device will accompany athletes throughout their Games-time experience — supporting life in the Olympic Village while enabling them to capture and share meaningful moments from competition to celebration.

The Olympic Edition will be incorporated into official podium moments via the Victory Selfie, which is making its Winter Olympics debut at Milano Cortina 2026. For the first time, it will expand to team sport competitions at Olympic Games so that all participating athletes can document their moment of victory through their own lens. In addition, athletes[2] from select National Olympic Committees (NOCs) will be able to share their personal passions and spirit through the Victory Profile, a new photo series captured with the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

▲ Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition for Milano Cortina 2026.

“Athletes are at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and for nearly 30 years Samsung has supported them as a Worldwide Partner through meaningful mobile innovation,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP and Head of Mobile Marketing Center, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “Since Sochi 2014, we’ve supported athletes with Olympic Editions and we’re honored to continue this commitment at Milano Cortina 2026. With Olympic Edition, athletes will be able to connect with fans and families at every unforgettable moment in their own way.”

A Special Olympic Edition To Celebrate the Olympic Winter Games 

The Galaxy Z Flip7 is an intelligent pocket-sized companion built for seamless interaction and everyday reliability. It integrates Galaxy AI with a new edge-to-edge FlexWindow, providing an effortless mobile AI experience. This intuitive, one-handed usability makes the Galaxy Z Flip7 a practical support for athletes throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Some key features include:

• The dual rear camera system, including 50MP Wide[3] and 12MP Ultra-Wide lens, delivering flagship-level clarity.
• Now Brief[4], which provides personalized daily updates such as reminders, calendar events and fitness summaries. It can also access health and wellness data from certain applications.
• Photo Assist[5], which brings studio-quality enhancements to images by moving, erasing or enlarging objects, adjusting angles, and filling in backgrounds with AI-powered capability.
• On-device Interpreter[6] lowers the language barrier by providing real-time translation regardless of network connection, allowing seamless communication — even in mountainous areas.

▲ Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition Package.

Adding to these features, the Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition introduces an iconic design that commemorates athletes’ participation in the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, as well as practical services to help enhance their experience in the Olympic Village and throughout competition.

The signature blue color covering the back glass of the device aligns with the unique style of Milano Cortina 2026, and represents the combination of Samsung’s long-standing identity and the cultural resonance of Italian azure. The color also reflects the spirit of unity and sportsmanship embodied by the Olympic Games. The custom gold metal frame symbolizes athletes’ pursuit of excellence and podium moments, as well as the brand’s aspiration for the best. The Olympic Edition device also comes with a clear magnet case with a blue circular magnet, surrounded by gold laurel leaves added as a motif of victory.

▲ Special Wallpapers and On/Off Animation for Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition.

Each device also includes special Olympic Winter Games–themed wallpaper created specifically for Milano Cortina 2026. The colorful curves represent winter sports, inspired by marks generated from the interaction between skate blades and ice surfaces. These design elements celebrate the Olympic spirit and each athlete’s passion.

Athletes can make moments with fans, family and teammates more memorable with Dual Recording, a feature that allows them to capture both what they see and their own reactions in a single shot by using the rear and front cameras at the same time. Tailored exclusively for the Olympic Edition, athletes can access Dual Recording mode simply by swiping the shooting mode within the Camera app. Athletes can also open up new and creative angles that bring the action closer using the split view by zooming in[7] on the rear-camera view, and can preview their shots in real-time directly on FlexWindow.

The Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition comes with a pre-loaded curated suite of essential apps and services to support athletes throughout Milano Cortina 2026:

▲ Galaxy Athlete Card helps athletes connect with one another and be part of a shared Olympic and Paralympic community.

• To encourage connection among athletes during their stay, the Galaxy Athlete Card experience offers a digital means for exchanging profiles, collecting cards and participating in interactive activities, helping to foster a sense of community across disciplines and delegations.
• Athletes will also receive complimentary connectivity via a 100GB 5G eSIM, along with access to digital passes and services in Samsung Wallet, developed in collaboration with Worldwide and Local Partners to facilitate their daily needs during Milano Cortina 2026. This includes Coca-Cola Free Beverage Key, which can be used at vending machines across the Villages.
• Athlete365 offers performance and mental health support while delivering key competition information. It is integrated into Galaxy AI’s Now Brief feature, keeping athletes updated with the latest Olympic Games-related news at a glance.
• Other applications — including the official Olympic Games app, IOC Hotline and PinQuest — improve day-to-day convenience in the Olympic Village while aiding athletes’ performance on and off the field of play.
• The pre-installed fitness application will enable athletes to track workouts and receive personalized training insights when using exercise equipment installed inside the Olympic and Paralympic Villages.

Marking the Moment of Victory, Together

▲ (From left) Silver medalist Baasankhuu Bavuudorj of Team Mongolia, gold medalist Natsumi Tsunoda of Team Japan and bronze medalists Shirine Boukli of Team France and Tara Babulfath of Team Sweden pose for their Victory Selfie after the women -48 kg judo competition. (Photo by Patrick Smith / Getty Images)

First introduced at Paris 2024, the Victory Selfie — powered by the Olympic Edition — allowed athletes to capture their moments of victory directly from the podium and share them from their own perspective, making moments more connected.

At Milano Cortina 2026, the Victory Selfie will make its Winter Olympics debut — and introduce a new, expanded format. For the first time, it will extend beyond individual and pair events to include wider team celebrations for Olympic Games, reflecting the collaborative nature of winter sports. Athletes can now capture and share their achievements together with teammates and instantly share them with their loved ones and fans around the world, so they can also join that life-changing moment.

Capturing the First Spark of Excitement With the Victory Profile

▲ (From left) Alex Hall, Flora Tabanelli, Gilli Kim

Athletes’ journeys extend far beyond the competition, encompassing preparation, anticipation and the emotions surrounding the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. To reflect this broader journey and celebrate the athlete experience, Samsung introduces the Victory Profile, a new athlete storytelling initiative developed with nine NOCs. The Victory Profile leverages curated portraits captured on the Galaxy S25 Ultra to vividly showcase each athlete’s unique passion and individuality.

The Victory Profile adds a new perspective to the Winter Olympics experience by highlighting moments beyond the podium and providing athletes with a personal keepsake that reflects their journey, as well as their unique personalities. The initial project will start with approximately 490 athletes from France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, the U.K. and the U.S.

Helping Shape the Future Games-Time Experience

Samsung will continue to use its mobile innovation to open up the Olympic and Paralympic Games to fans around the world, making every moment feel more connected. Through its devices and athlete-centered experiences, Samsung is creating new ways for athletes to share their journeys — from preparation to the podium — while bringing fans closer to the moments and people that define the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition will be distributed at Olympic Villages across six cities, starting on January 30^th. The Samsung Open Station will also offer on-site professional customer service to help athletes activate devices, transfer data and receive general technical support.

About Samsung’s Involvement in the Olympic Games
Samsung has been a Worldwide Olympic Partner since the Olympic Winter Games Nagano 1998. For nearly 30 years, athletes and fans have trusted Samsung’s transformative mobile technology to share the Olympic spirit globally and to help shape the digital future of the Olympic Games for Milano Cortina 2026 and beyond. The company’s commitment to the Olympic Movement soon faces its fourth decade of partnership and extends through Los Angeles 2028. Samsung’s purposeful innovations in the wireless communications and computing equipment category, including equipment that features artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality and 5G will help to change the way the world experiences the Olympic Games.

About Samsung’s Involvement in the Paralympic Games
Samsung is a Worldwide Partner of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in the wireless communications and computing equipment category. Starting from Paralympic Winter Games Torino 2006, the company has proudly supported the Paralympic Movement and enabled athletes and fans around the world to share the excitement and inspiration of the Games through Samsung’s transformative mobile technology. Samsung’s commitment to the Paralympic Games will extend through to Los Angeles 2028 and be celebrated through innovative mobile and computing experiences powered by purposeful innovations in the wireless communications and computing equipment category, including equipment that features artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality and 5G.

[1] Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition is not for sale.

[2] Victory Profile is offered only to those athletes from 9-NOCs who were willing to participate the program. This photo program is not an official collaboration with the IOC.

[3] 50 MP resolution is available on Galaxy Z Flip7’s rear wide camera only.

[4] Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model, apps. Some features may require a network connection. Modes and Routines need to be enabled to use Personal Data Engine for context-based Routines suggestions. User needs to consent to access permissions such as photos, videos, audio files, and calendar events. May not display moments depending upon exposure policy. The description of photos provided by moments may not align with the user’s intent. Events schedule notification is supported with calendar apps that utilize Android calendar database and available if Samsung Calendar is installed. Notifications for coupons only available for coupons added to Samsung Wallet with expiration date. To check the Energy Score, the health data tracked from Samsung mobile devices must be synchronized with the Samsung digital health platform. The result is for your personal reference only and is not intended for medical purposes.

[5] Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit 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.

[6] Interpreter requires Samsung Account login. Certain languages may require language pack download. Service availability may vary by language. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Availability and supported features may vary by country, region or carrier. Availability of supported languages may vary. Supported languages include Korean, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Polish, Hindi, Thai, Vietnamese, Russian, Bahasa Indonesia, Arabic, Dutch, Swedish, Turkish, Romanian, Filipino, and Gujarati.

[7] Dual Recording zoom-in feature supports up to 10x.