Galaxy S26 Ultra: Where Innovation Leads

Galaxy S26 Ultra brings together Samsung’s most advanced innovation in a single device – powerful performance, an excellent camera system, enhanced intuitive Galaxy AI and the Samsung’s first mobile phone with a built-in Privacy Display².

Privacy Display, which has drawn widespread praise since its unveiling, is a breakthrough in display technology that fundamentally changes how privacy can be protected on a phone at a pixel level. Designed for everyday situations, hardware and software are working as one to protect privacy.

Built for extended performance, Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers the most powerful performance on a Galaxy S series yet, powered by a customised mobile processor — Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy³ — with significant gains⁴ across the CPU, GPU and NPU⁵ to support faster, smoother experiences that keep up throughout the day.

Galaxy S26 Ultra also features Samsung’s most intuitive and user-friendly AI experience to date. Features like Now Nudge⁶ provide proactive and relevant context-aware suggestions, while Now Brief⁷ surfaces timely reminders for important events. A choice of agents⁸ also helps users to complete tasks with a single button press or voice prompt.

Galaxy S26 Ultra builds on Samsung’s best camera system, seamlessly integrating capture, editing and sharing into one intuitive workflow. Nightography video,⁹ keeps footage vibrant even in low light, and Super Steady,¹⁰ which comes with a new horizontal lock option for greater stability, even during dynamic movement. Editing is just as easy and straightforward. With the upgraded Photo Assist,¹¹ users can refine images and express their creativity by simply describing what they want in their own words, while Creative Studio¹² empowers users to easily turn their ideas into polished visuals — from stickers and invitations to personalised wallpapers.

Galaxy Buds4 series: Superior Hi-Fi Sound with Computationally Designed Fit

Users can enhance the capabilities of the Galaxy S26 with the new Galaxy Buds4 series which integrated Samsung’s most advanced audio and wearability innovations together in one seamless experience. The Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Buds4 deliver superior hi-fi audio and everyday wearability to achieve the best listening experience across the Galaxy Buds series to date. The Buds4 series establishes a new iconic blade design with an engraved pinch control¹³ and ultra-sleek ergonomic fit. Powerful hardware and software innovations on the Buds4 Pro such as a wider woofer and an enhanced Adaptive Equaliser and Active Noise Cancellation¹⁴ produce rich full-spectrum sound true to the original recording. With the integration of several AI agents¹⁵and intuitive hands-free controls, the Buds4 series becomes a natural companion to Galaxy S26, extending everyday experiences beyond the phone.

Starting March 20, the Galaxy S26 series is available¹⁶ through carriers, retailers Samsung Shop App and Samsung.com. The Galaxy S26 series features a unified design language across all models, with shared colour options including Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue alongside the Samsung.com-exclusive Pink Gold and Silver Shadow.

The Galaxy S26 series is available at these recommended retail prices¹⁷:

• Galaxy S26 Ultra from R30,999¹⁷
• Galaxy S26+ from R25,999¹⁷
• Galaxy S26 from R20,999¹⁷

The Galaxy Buds4 series is available in two models — Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Buds4 — with distinct colourways including White and Black with a refined matte finish — as well as an online-exclusive Pink Gold for Buds4 Pro.

The series is available at these recommended retail prices¹⁸.

• Galaxy Buds4 – R3,499¹⁸
• Galaxy Buds4 Pro – R4,999¹⁸

For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+¹⁹ offers comprehensive coverage that protects the devices’ value, including repairs for accidental damage, extended warranty, and certified expert support available both at home and abroad.

To experience the powerful performance of the newly launched Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds4 series, head over to a Galaxy Hangouts Cube in your city. Hosted at various malls and venues in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Umhlanga and Cape Town until 26 April 2026, Hangouts Cube is an immersive, sensory-led journey built around the Galaxy S26 series, showcasing Galaxy AI capabilities in unexpected ways.

For more information about the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds4 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, SamsungMobilePress.com and Samsung.com.

[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] Samsung’s first built-in privacy display on a smartphone. Must be enabled in settings. 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.

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

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

[5] A CPU performance increase of up to 19% means the 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.

[6] 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.

[7] 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.

[8] Availability may vary by region/country and language.

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

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

[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] Galaxy Buds are available to connect as Bluetooth Audio regardless of OS, but to configure advanced settings, Galaxy Buds must be paired with a smartphone with Android 10.0 or above and a minimum of 1.5GB of memory.​ Advanced settings on the quick panel or Buds menu in Settings include Noise Control, Adaptive EQ, Pinch Control and software update. ​Some features are only available on compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphones.​ Android is a trademark of Google LLC.

[14] Available on Buds4 Pro.

[15] AI features require a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone.

[16] Availability may vary by country, region, and carrier. Colour availability may vary depending on country or carrier.

[17] Recommended retail price only. Prices may vary per retailer.

[18] Recommended retail prices only. Prices may vary per retailer.

[19] 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/

▲ 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 showcases a unified look. (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.

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.