Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launches with AI Focus and New Privacy Features

Samsung has officially unveiled its Galaxy S26 series, comprising the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra, all available for pre-order now with shipments beginning on March 11, 2026. The new lineup emphasizes advancements in artificial intelligence and introduces features like a Privacy Display on the Ultra model.

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy S26 series will launch in March, with pre-orders opening today. A 256GB unlocked version of the Galaxy S26 will retail for $899.99. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for each model and storage option:

• Galaxy S26 Ultra 1 TB: $1,300
• Galaxy S26 Ultra 512 GB: $1,200
• Galaxy S26 Ultra 256 GB: $1,000
• Galaxy S26+ 512 GB: $900
• Galaxy S26+ 256 GB: $800
• Galaxy S26 512 GB: $700
• Galaxy S26 256 GB: $600

The base Galaxy S26 model maintains its price from the previous year, while other configurations have seen price increases. The 128GB storage option has been discontinued.

Key Features and Specifications

The Galaxy S26 series incorporates a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy chipset and various AI-powered features. The S26 Ultra boasts Samsung’s first built-in Privacy Display, designed to protect visual data from prying eyes.

• Display: Galaxy S26 (6.3-inch FHD+ 120Hz), Galaxy S26+ (6.7-inch Quad HD+), Galaxy S26 Ultra (6.9-inch Quad HD+)
• Cameras: Galaxy S26 (50MP + 12MP + 10MP), Galaxy S26 Ultra (200.0MP + 50.0MP + 50.0MP + 10.0MP)
• Colors: Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, White, Black, Silver Shadow (online exclusive), Pink Gold (online exclusive)

Pre-Order Incentives and Promotions

Samsung is offering several promotions to encourage early adoption:

• Upgrade Offer: During the pre-sale period (until March 10th), customers can purchase a higher storage model for the price of the lower capacity variant by using the promo code “UPGRADE”.
• Ultra Discount: A $55 discount (CZK 5,000) is available on the 1TB Galaxy S26 Ultra.
• Trade-In Program: Samsung is accepting trade-ins for older devices.
• Bundle Deals: A 10% discount on a second item (tablet, watch, or headphones) and a 30% discount on accessories are available with qualifying purchases.
• Bonus Gifts: Limited quantities of Samsung Music Frame speakers and Samsung Jet 65 stick vacuum cleaners are available as gifts with purchase.
• Samsung Rewards: Customers can earn bonus points during the pre-order period.
• First Purchase Discount: A 5% discount is available for first-time Samsung e-shop customers using the code “MUJ-FIRST-PURCHASE”.
• Student Discount: Students with a valid ISIC, ITIC, IYTC, or AliveID card receive a 7% discount.
• Samsung Care+: Three months of Samsung Care+ insurance are included with each phone.

A Practical Alternative to the Z Trifold

With the launch of the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung provides a more accessible option for consumers compared to its recently released, more extravagant Galaxy Z Trifold phone.

Source: Shacknews, Mashable, Engadget