Samsung has set the stage for its first Galaxy Unpacked event of 2026, scheduled for February 25 in San Francisco. This eagerly anticipated occasion will likely introduce the Galaxy S26 lineup, comprising the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. While Samsung has shared official invites, details regarding the devices set to launch remain largely under wraps. Yet, industry insiders and leaks provide a wealth of information regarding what to expect during this significant event.
The keynote will commence at 10 AM PT (1 PM ET) and will be streamed live on Samsung’s official website, newsroom, and YouTube channel. The company teased that this launch will signify “a new phase in the era of AI as intelligence becomes truly personal and adaptive.” Though this statement is vague, it hints at a strong focus on artificial intelligence in the upcoming products.
What to Expect from the Galaxy S26 Series
The upcoming Galaxy S26 models are not expected to feature a radical redesign compared to their predecessors. Leaked images suggest that the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra will maintain a similar aesthetic to the Galaxy S25, incorporating a flat front screen with rounded corners and vertically aligned cameras on the back.
All three models are anticipated to be powered by Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, enhancing performance, particularly in on-device AI processing. Reports also indicate that Samsung may utilize its Exynos 2600 chip for some regional variants, continuing a strategy the company has employed in the past.
Specifications and Features
Here are some anticipated specifications for the Galaxy S26 series:
- Galaxy S26: Expected to feature a 6.3-inch FHD+ display, 12GB of RAM, and a choice of 256GB or 512GB storage. The battery capacity is rumored to be 4,300mAh.
- Galaxy S26+: Similar to the base model but with a 6.7-inch FHD+ screen and a 4,900mAh battery. It will also retain the same camera system.
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: Expected to have a slightly raised camera bump with a new metallic finish, potentially reverting to an aluminum frame from the previous titanium design. This model may also introduce a new method for stylus input, as it reportedly will not include the S Pen digitizer layer to support Qi2 accessories.
Despite rumors suggesting that the S26 series would incorporate built-in magnets for magnetic alignment with Qi2 charging, leaks indicate that this feature may not be present. Images of cases suggest that Samsung will continue its previous approach of offering magnetic attachments rather than integrating magnets directly into the devices.
Galaxy Buds 4 and Other Devices
In addition to the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro during the Unpacked event. These new earbuds are rumored to feature a more compact design and enhanced functionality, including support for head gestures to manage calls. Reports also suggest that they may include a new Ultra Wideband chip, facilitating easier tracking via Google’s Identify Hub network.
Samsung’s innovative Galaxy Z TriFold device, which was recently launched in the U.S. For $2,900, may also be mentioned during the event. It’s a foldable smartphone that converts into a tablet, showcasing Samsung’s ongoing commitment to innovative design in mobile technology.
AI Integration and Software Features
Samsung is placing a significant emphasis on AI, with plans to enhance its Bixby assistant and potentially integrate new AI-driven features into its devices. Recent teasers have highlighted upcoming mobile AI photography capabilities that will allow users to drastically alter images, such as transforming a photo from day to night or restoring missing parts of objects in images.
As the event approaches, anticipation builds around the Galaxy S26 series and other devices, as they promise to deliver incremental improvements and innovative features that align with user expectations in an increasingly competitive market.
After the Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, we can expect detailed hands-on reviews and analyses of these new devices. The introduction of AI-driven features may significantly influence how users interact with their devices, setting the stage for future innovations in the mobile landscape. Stay tuned for updates and insights as the event unfolds.