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Samsung's S26: AI Overhaul, Privacy Focus
26 Feb
Summary
- Galaxy S26 series emphasizes AI features and privacy over design.
- Ultra model boasts a Privacy Display to limit screen viewing angles.
- All S26 models feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.
Samsung has launched its Galaxy S26 smartphone series, a lineup that champions artificial intelligence and enhanced privacy features, foregoing substantial design overhauls. The new devices were unveiled on Wednesday, February 26, 2026, at an event in San Francisco. Pricing for the Galaxy S26 Ultra begins at $1,300, the Galaxy S26 Plus at $1,100, and the standard Galaxy S26 at $900, positioning them as direct competitors to Apple's iPhone 17.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra distinguishes itself with a novel 'Privacy Display' feature. This mode significantly narrows the screen's viewing angles, making it difficult for onlookers to see sensitive information. Users can enable this feature universally, for specific apps, or when entering passwords. The Ultra also retains its S Pen stylus and features improved cameras with wider apertures for better low-light performance and an upgraded vapor chamber for efficient heat dissipation.
Across the entire S26 range, including the Plus and standard models, performance is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. Samsung has integrated advanced AI capabilities, such as natural-language image editing and enhanced call screening. The phones will offer deep integration with AI assistants like Google's Gemini and Perplexity, enabling automated app actions and improved Bixby functionalities. These phones are available for pre-order immediately and will be in stores on March 11, 2026.
