Samsung Galaxy S26: Specs, Release Date & Upgrades

With the Galaxy Z series already launched, all eyes are now shifting toward Samsung’s next big flagship lineup: the Galaxy S26 series. Leaks, renders, and insider reports are painting a clearer picture of what to expect in early 2025. From ultra-thin designs to massive camera upgrades, Samsung seems to be pushing the S26 lineup as the next paradigm shift in smartphone technology. Let’s dive into the details of the S26 Ultra, S26 Edge, and S26 Pro.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Cell Phone, 256GB Smartphone, Unlocked Android, AI Night Mode Camera, Snapdragon 8 Elite Fast Processor, ProScaler Display, 4000mAh Battery, 2025, US 1 Yr Warranty, Navy

-9% $779.99  List Price: $859.99

Galaxy S26 Edge: Ultra-Thin Challenger to iPhone Air

According to leaked images, the Galaxy S26 Edge will feature a sleek body measuring just 5.5mm at its thinnest point — slimmer than most flagships, likely to rival Apple’s recently revealed iPhone Air. The device dimensions are 158.4 × 75.7 × 5.5mm with a 6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED display supporting a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Powering the S26 Edge will be the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 processor, with memory options going up to 12GB RAM + 512GB storage. On the camera front, it packs a 200MP main sensor alongside a 12MP ultra-wide lens. For power, the phone includes a 4300mAh battery with support for the latest Qi2 magnetic wireless charging.

Galaxy S26 Pro: The Compact Flagship

The Galaxy S26 Pro is set to be the all-around compact flagship in the lineup. At 6.7mm thickness, it’s slightly bulkier than the Edge, but it comes with a smaller 6.27-inch AMOLED display that also supports 120Hz refresh rate.

Its camera system will include a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens, offering versatility for both photography and videography. Performance will be powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 or Samsung’s in-house Exynos 2600 chipset. The Pro also comes with a 4300mAh battery with 45W wired fast charging and Qi2 wireless charging.

Galaxy S26 Ultra: The True Photography Flagship

As always, the Ultra variant will be the crown jewel of Samsung’s lineup. The Galaxy S26 Ultra measures 163.4 × 77.9 × 7.8mm and houses a stunning 6.9-inch AMOLED display. Samsung has introduced new anti-reflective glass and depolarization technology to enhance visibility even under strong sunlight.

The camera array is where the S26 Ultra truly shines:

• 200MP main camera (upgraded ISOCELL or Sony sensor, 1/1.1-inch size)
• 50MP periscope telephoto with 5x zoom
• 50MP ultra-wide sensor
• 12MP telephoto lens (likely upgraded from the S25 Ultra’s 10MP)

To power this beast, the Ultra is equipped with a 5000mAh battery and supports 66W wired fast charging along with Qi2 wireless charging. This combination puts it directly against the most premium iPhone and Pixel offerings.

Development Codename “NPA”: Next Paradigm

Reports suggest that Samsung has given the S26 lineup the codename NPA — short for Next Paradigm. Following the S25 series codename “PA” (Paradigm), this naming shift highlights Samsung’s ambitions to redefine its flagship smartphone experience. The lineup will continue with three core models: S26, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra.

Expected Release Date

Based on industry leaks, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series release date is expected to be January 2025, following Samsung’s usual flagship launch cycle. This aligns with the early-year release strategy we’ve seen in the past few Galaxy S launches.

Price Predictions

While Samsung has not officially revealed pricing, early speculation suggests the S26 Ultra price will remain in the $1,199–$1,299 range, consistent with previous Ultra flagships. The Edge and Pro variants will likely start lower, with the standard S26 targeting the $899–$999 segment.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious smartphone launches in years. With breakthroughs in thinness, camera technology, and display innovation, Samsung is setting the stage to challenge Apple and other rivals head-on. The S26 Ultra, in particular, looks like a dream device for mobile photography enthusiasts. If you’ve been holding off on upgrading, 2025 might just be the year to make the leap.