The Samsung Galaxy S26 is already on everyone's lips and the leaks have gone from a trickle to a waterfall. There are images, approximate measurements, rumors about processors, design changes, and even back-and-forths with the calendar. of presentation. That said: as happens every year at this time, some of what is being said overlaps or even contradicts itself, so it is advisable to separate what is gaining consensus from what remains mere speculation.
In the last few hours, reports have emerged from Korea, renders signed by leakers with a good track record, and articles that provide context to Samsung's strategy against Apple. The overall picture suggests three models (S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra), a moderate redesign with potential "island" camera setups, chips divided by range and region, and a launch that ranges between the end of January and the end of February.Let's take it one step at a time and consider all the nuances.
Planned range: S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra… and the Edge's ups and downs
For months it was assumed that the Plus would disappear to make way for a new ultra-thin Edge. The latest leaks deny that change: the S26+, far from being canceled, would still go ahead, and the supposed S26 Edge would be left out or, at most, postponed.Several sources suggest that the weak commercial performance of the S25 Edge has cooled the plan.
Even so, the Edge name has not completely disappeared. Some argue that Samsung could revive it as a separate release months laterIf the market shows interest in extremely thin phones, the current consensus leans towards the classic trio: S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra.
Design: Goodbye to “floating” sensors and hello to the “island” (with nuances)
One of the most repeated new features is the change in the rear. The S26 would be leaving behind the "floating" camera sensors to embrace an island-shaped modulewith an oval that groups the main lenses. In the S26 Ultra, that encapsulation would affect three of the four sensors (a fourth sensor and the flash would be left out).
However, not all leaks are in agreement. Other images of the S26+ show a vertical module in the upper left corner. It's more reminiscent of previous generations than an oval island. This suggests two possibilities: either there are prototypes with different solutions, or the renderings don't reflect the final design.
Where there is more alignment is in ergonomics. It is expected that the edges will remain rounded and that the Ultra will abandon its square corners.bringing its silhouette closer to that of its siblings. This would have practical implications: the manufacturer would have had to adjust the S Pen to fit a less angular chassis.
Dimensions and finishes: the S26+ repeats the same fine recipe and the Ultra refines it by millimeters.
The measurements of the S26+ are quite specific in some leaks: 158,4 x 75,4 x 7,35 millimetersIt features a 6,7-inch flat screen and slim bezels. Its thickness makes it a very thin phone, in line with its predecessor, maintaining a consistent design.
For the base model, there is another interesting clue that confronts the design cuts for price. There is talk that the S26 would be even slightly thinner than the S25 (around 6,9 mm)Although it doesn't reach the extreme thinness of a hypothetical Edge. Meanwhile, other reports claim that Samsung cut some features from the base model to avoid raising the final price.
In the Ultra, several voices agree on a slight thinning compared to the S25 Ultra. The figure being discussed is 0,3 mm less, a subtle adjustment that would accompany the rounding of corners and the slight revision of the camera module, supposedly more voluminous due to larger optics.
Screens: Flat LTPO on the S26+, tiny bezels on the Ultra, and two-speed "privacy"
In the S26+, the cards seem clear: 6,7-inch LTPO AMOLED 2X flat panelwith variable rate and minimal bezels. A clean aesthetic, without curves, and continuity with the current generation in terms of user experience are expected.
The S26 Ultra aims high in visual refinement. Bezels of just 1,15 mm and a size of about 6,9 inches have been mentioned.This is where a key element comes into play: Flex Magic Pixel. According to some reports, it's a system to protect privacy by reducing the viewing angle; other leaks describe it as a feature to hide sensitive information in screenshots and shared content.
The two descriptions are not entirely mutually exclusive, but they are not identical. One points to an "optical" solution embedded in the screen, the other to a software privacy controlMeanwhile, there are rumors of Color Filter on Encapsulation (CoE) coming to the Ultra, a technique seen in foldable phones that would improve brightness, blacks, and power consumption to compensate for the new privacy layer.
And if that weren't enough, some are betting on raising the bar for fluidity. A counter-rumor mentions 144 Hz for the Ultra.If confirmed, it would be a jump from the usual 120 Hz, although that figure is not supported by the more conservative leaks.
Processors: Snapdragon exclusive to the Ultra and Exynos 2600 for Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26+
Here Samsung would be reviving a familiar tactic. Everything points to a Snapdragon 8 Elite “for Galaxy” exclusive to the S26 Ultra, with differentiated functions reserved for this model, while the S26 and S26+ would use the Exynos 2600 in Europe and South Korea (possibly also in other selected regions).
The division by chips is not new to the company and makes sense in terms of costs and positioning. The most optimistic leaks regarding the Exynos 2600 indicate 2nm manufacturing and mass production ready.This, if confirmed, would mark a technological milestone. Meanwhile, reports suggest that the Ultra would retain the preferential treatment it received from Qualcomm in recent generations.
A curious detail appears in some commercial texts: A “Snapdragon 8 Elite 2” is mentioned for certain local AI functions. As of today, that name doesn't fit with the line suggested by the other serious leaks; it should be treated with extreme caution.
Memory and configurations: 12 GB sounds strong in the S26+
The fluctuating specifications leave few firm numbers outside of the Ultra, but The S26+ also has 12 GB of RAM. in several leaks. Nothing far-fetched: Samsung has consolidated that capability in high-end models, and it fits with a "balanced" profile between the base and Ultra versions.
Battery and charging: cuts in the base model, continuity in the Plus, and debate in the Ultra.
Battery decisions are influenced by the target price, especially in the entry-level model. The base S26 would remain at 4.300 mAh (above the S25, but below what was originally planned, which exceeded 4.500 mAh), keeping the thickness very similar to last year's.
For the S26+, leaks suggest stability: battery and thickness similar to the S25+There are no major leaps here, which underlines that the focus of this generation, in this model, would be more on design and processor than on battery life.
The Ultra is at the center of the controversy. One set of rumors suggests maintaining the S25 Ultra's battery capacity, while another advocates for an increase to 5.400 mAh.The same applies to charging: some reports cite 60W and others 65W, which would finally break the 45W ceiling. In any case, the underlying message is clear: Samsung has room to increase the charging speed of its flagship model.
Cameras: between déjà vu and improvements in optics and processing
In photography, the score combines familiar elements and fine tunings. The S26 Ultra is rumored to feature four sensors: a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP 5x telephoto lens, a 12MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 50MP ultra-wide-angle lens.The key innovation would be in the optics of the main sensor, with a much wider aperture (f/1.4) to capture more light.
That step forward in lenses would explain another leak: a thicker camera module, almost twice as thickaccommodating larger and more demanding crystals. Combined with AI processing, the system would aim for tangible improvements without the need for "entirely new hardware".
The S26 and S26+ models are expected to be consistent with the S25 generation. It's rumored to have a 50MP main camera, a 10MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. For the base model, it uses a very similar S26+ configuration. There are no radical leaps here, but the processing and stabilization improvements are to be expected.
Software and smart features: One UI 8.5 and privacy at the forefront
In the field of software, the consensus is clear: One UI 8.5 based on Android 17 would debut with the S26The update would place a strong emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence features and adjusting the interface, although the finer details remain to be seen.
Flex Magic Pixel reappears here with a double side. On one hand, it serves as on-screen privacy management, and on the other, as a tool to hide sensitive data in screenshots and shared content.The second interpretation has been specifically linked to the Ultra, which is consistent with the narrative that the top model will have differentiated features.
There have also been mentions of a "new assistant" already integrated with more local AI. Some cite an alternative conversational search assistant and more cloud-free features thanks to a reinforced NPUSince it is not aligned with the rest of the solid leaks, it is best to take this part as promotional material or, at the very least, highly preliminary.
Performance and networks: chip tailored to the market
With the Ultra powered by a top-of-the-line Snapdragon and the S26/S26+ opting for the Exynos 2600 in Europe and Korea, Performance experience may differ between regions on non-Ultra modelsSamsung has managed this duality before, and the current narrative presents it as a more logical than controversial strategy.
If the 2nm figure is confirmed for the Exynos 2600, We could see some interesting efficiency improvementsEspecially if you add a well-calibrated LTPO panel. In terms of connectivity, no major changes are expected beyond the usual new 5G and next-generation Wi-Fi.
Release date and availability: late January or late February?
The calendar has been moved several times on the table. One report, from reliable Korean media outlets, places the launch at the end of January with sales in mid-February.very much in line with the 2025 choreography. Other reports point to an event on February 25, with marketing already underway in March.
This second scenario has an advantage: the coincidence with the Mobile World Congress in BarcelonaAs in the old days, this would give the launch more exposure. In any case, the "January presentation, February sales" plan has gained traction after the model shuffle was resolved (the discontinuation of the Edge and the continuation of the Plus would have cleared the roadmap).
Pricing and strategy against Apple: the $799 frontier
Several leaks explain that Samsung has readjusted its plan for the base S26 to not exceed a certain price threshold. The S26 would start at $799, with slight cuts compared to what was initially considered (especially in battery) to keep the label at bay.
The S26+ would be in an intermediate position, without major changes in thickness and battery compared to the S25+. The S26 Ultra would be the one that stands out the most: thinner, with exclusive features and, predictably, a higher price.There are no official figures, but the price increase compared to the previous model is uncertain, and the goal would be to compete head-to-head with the higher-end iPhones.
This move provides a clear market reading. Samsung reacts pragmatically to Apple's signalsPrioritizing price over "everything at once" in the base model, and concentrating zero compromises in the Ultra. Users who don't upgrade to the Ultra might experience less of a generational "wow," but in return, they avoid a price increase.
Colors and subtle touches: a very prominent orange for the Ultra
Among the color notes (literally), a bright orange finish for the Ultra has gained traction. It would be a very recognizable and distinctive shade in the product line.accompanied by more subdued colors for those who prefer discretion. Nothing rules out "exclusive" online series, as in previous generations.
Provisional (unofficial) forms by model
These summaries combine the points with the most consensus and highlight the areas where there is disagreement.These are not final specifications and may vary in the product sold.
- Samsung Galaxy S26 (base): 6,2-6,3″ approx. (not confirmed); rounded corner design; possible camera island. Battery of 4.300 mAhExynos 2600 in Europe/Korea. Camera suite in line with the S25 (50MP main + 10MP 3x telephoto + 12MP ultra-wide). Target price: $799.
- Galaxy S26 +: flat screen 6,7″ LTPO AMOLED 2XSlim bezels, approximately 158,4 x 75,4 x 7,35 mm. 12 GB of RAM. Exynos 2600 in Europe/Korea. Battery and thickness similar to the S25+. Rear camera island in some leaks and vertical module in others.
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: ~6,9″ with bevels of 1,15 mmMore rounded corners; redesigned S Pen. Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy. Cameras: 200 MP main (f/1.4), 50 MP 5x zoom, 12 MP 3x zoom, 50 MP ultra-wide; thicker module. Battery: same capacity as the S25 Ultra or jump to 5.400 mAh (According to leak). Charging: 60-65 W according to source. Flex Magic Pixel (privacy) and possible CoENew orange finish.
What's going on with the Edge?
The Edge has been the wild card of the deck. At first it seemed destined to replace Plus; now its name appears as a candidate for a later release.Depending on how the demand for ultra-thin phones evolves. The fact that the S25 Edge hasn't been a sales success works against it, but Samsung wouldn't have abandoned the idea altogether.
In case he sticks his head out, It would be logical for them to adopt design solutions to contain the thickness without penalizing battery life.with extended camera modules and component layout that maximizes the chassis's footprint. Even so, there's no firm release date yet.
Contradictions and level of confidence in rumors
This generation's leaks have some strong points and some weaker ones. They're sticking: the chip split (Ultra with Snapdragon; S26/S26+ with Exynos in Europe/Korea), the continuation of the Plus model, the rounded corners of the Ultra, and the return of One UI 8.5The approximate measurements of the S26+ are also gaining weight.
On the doubtful side, The camera "island" coexists with vertical modules in different rendersThe Ultra's battery capacity fluctuates between maintaining its original size and increasing to 5.400 mAh, with charging ranging from 60 to 65 W. Similarly, the Flex Magic Pixel "privacy" features are not precisely defined (display vs. software), and some AI claims sound more like marketing hype than technical specifications.
With the calendar, the pendulum swings between Presentation at the end of January with sales in February and an event at the end of February (possibly with a nod to MWC) and a store release in March. Unlocking the puzzle of the models (without Edge, with Plus) favors the first scenario.
Competitive context: why Samsung has fine-tuned the S26 base stylus
One of the most interesting things to read is how Samsung has adjusted its proposal for the base S26 based on Apple's benchmark. In order to avoid exceeding the psychological barrier of the entry price, they have opted to cut what was initially considered. (more ambitious battery and even thinner chassis), preserving the $799 price tag.
This puts more distance between the Plus and the Ultra, reinforcing Ultra as “no compromise” And leaving the Plus as a balanced, large-format option. Users who want "everything" will have to accept that the Ultra will presumably be more expensive than the S25 Ultra, and that some of its flagship features will be exclusive.
Small details that can make all the difference in the experience
Beyond the great photograph, there are pieces that, together, define the feeling of a generational leap. The move to even thinner bezels, the flat screen on the Plus, the new f/1.4 lens on the Ultra, and the refinements of One UI They are likely to be as noticeable in everyday life as a sensor change.
If the arrival of CoE on Ultra and a true on-screen privacy mode are confirmed, We will see a more efficient panel with better control of prying eyes.A useful feature for mobility. Meanwhile, the expected efficiency improvements in the Exynos 2600 would be key to achieving adequate range in the non-Ultra models.
With all the rumors, the picture of the Samsung Galaxy S26 is pretty clear: Three models with clear roles, a sensible redesign with potential camera islands, chips differentiated by range and region, and a schedule that fits between the end of January and the end of February.
There are pieces to fit together (the battery and charging of the Ultra, the exact shape of the S26+ module and the real reach of Flex Magic Pixel), but the course is well marked: a reasonable price in the base model, solid continuity in the Plus and an Ultra that wants to lead with its screen, camera and software exclusives. Share this information so more people can learn all about the Samsung Galaxy S26.
