Samsung is already setting the stage for its next flagship lineup — the Galaxy S26 series — even though the phones aren’t expected until early 2026. During the company’s Q3 2025 earnings call, Daniel Araujo, Vice President of Samsung’s Mobile Experience Division, shared early details about what users can expect, hinting at big improvements in performance, photography, and artificial intelligence.
A New Custom Chipset
Araujo revealed that the Galaxy S26 lineup will include a second-generation custom application processor (AP) designed to enhance performance and efficiency. While Samsung didn’t name the chip directly, it’s likely to be either the company’s own Exynos 2600 or a customized version of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 developed specifically “for Galaxy.”
Samsung typically splits chipsets by region — using Snapdragon in some markets and Exynos in others — so both could appear across the S26 range. The goal is to deliver better power management, faster AI processing, and smoother multitasking.
Upgraded Camera Sensors
The Galaxy S26 series will also introduce new camera sensors, which could bring improved image quality and low-light performance. Previous reports suggested that the base Galaxy S26 might feature either an upgraded 50MP main sensor or a new 50MP ultra-wide camera. Meanwhile, the S26 Ultra could see more significant camera updates, possibly with higher megapixels or advanced optical technology.
This contradicts earlier rumors that Samsung planned to keep the same camera setup from the Galaxy S25 series, suggesting users can now expect meaningful upgrades across at least some models.
Smarter, Next-Generation AI
Artificial intelligence will once again be central to Samsung’s next flagship line. The company promises “user-centric, next-gen AI” designed to enhance personalization and usability. While details remain limited, the Galaxy S26 phones are expected to expand on features like real-time translation, AI-powered photo editing, and smart assistant tools first introduced in the Galaxy S24 series.
If Samsung’s claims hold true, this could mark a major step forward in integrating AI more deeply into everyday smartphone use.
Expected Launch Window
The Samsung Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra are expected to debut between January and March 2026, following Samsung’s usual release pattern.
Though the company’s statements are light on specifics, the combination of new camera hardware, a custom processor, and enhanced AI suggests Samsung is gearing up for one of its most ambitious Galaxy releases yet.
If these upgrades deliver as promised, the Galaxy S26 series could easily become one of the most anticipated smartphone launches of 2026.
