#Japan #Tokyo #Samsung Galaxy #Won-Joon Choi #Privacy Display

Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Unveiling

On March 12, 2026, Samsung Electronics Japan hosted a special roundtable conference to celebrate the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. The event featured CEO and MX Business Unit COO Won-Joon Choi, who discussed the groundbreaking 'Privacy Display' technology incorporated in the Galaxy S26 Ultra as well as insights into Samsung's AI strategy moving forward.

Exciting Start in Global Markets

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series officially hit global markets on March 11, 2026, and early sales indicators show promising results. Pre-order demand exceeded previous models, with more than 70% of orders attributed to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This marks a significant milestone as Japan joins the ranks of the initial launch countries, highlighting the nation’s eagerness to experience cutting-edge technology.

The Galaxy S26 series, being Samsung's third-gen AI smartphones, boasts unparalleled performance enhancements, including faster processing speeds and significantly improved camera functionality. The introduction of the world's first Privacy Display allows users to enjoy a safer smartphone experience anytime and anywhere. Furthermore, diverse new features and upgraded AI capabilities are set to enhance daily convenience, positioning the Galaxy S26 as an 'agent-type AI phone' that brings AI's advantages to everyone easily.

Ambitious AI Goals

Samsung aims to democratize AI technology. In 2024, when Choi visited Japan, he set an ambitious target to enable Galaxy AI in 200 million devices worldwide by the end of that year. Not only was this goal achieved, but by late 2025, over 400 million Galaxy devices are equipped with Galaxy AI, and the aim for 2026 is to double this figure.

In collaboration with Google, Samsung is also working on developing an 'AI OS' that will enhance the synergy between agent-type AI and user experience. By understanding the user's context at the OS level, various services will seamlessly integrate to boost functionality and usability of the devices.

Optimizing the 'Agent-type AI Phone'

To realize agent-type AI phones based on AI OS, Samsung emphasizes the essential balance between on-device processing and cloud capabilities. For personalized AI experiences, it's crucial to grasp each user’s context, which will be processed on the device for safety. Meanwhile, complex decisions and heavy computations will harness cloud resources for efficiency.

This clarity of roles will utilize the strengths of both on-device and cloud computing to provide optimal AI functionality. Core experiences within AI OS will offer proactive suggestions based on context through features such as 'Now Nudge', while automation will enable agents to handle tasks on behalf of users. The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is primarily focused on building this AI OS foundation and promises to expand its applications and services in the near future.

Enhanced Camera Experiences

Samsung emphasizes not only hardware but also an integrated end-to-end camera experience that supports editing and sharing. The new camera capabilities aim to empower everyday users to take professional-quality photos while providing advanced control options for professionals.

Samsung strives to ensure that even casual photographers can achieve pro-level shots with features optimizing composition and color without requiring extensive skills.

The Privacy Display: A Five-Year Journey

The Privacy Display, a notable innovation in the Galaxy S26 series, emerged from the MX Business Unit and reflects five years of development. Initial research within the unit validated its feasibility, leading to a collaborative project with display development partners.

Throughout the process, teams faced challenges such as ensuring the display would not compromise typical use quality compared to the standard mode. The introduction of software structures for selective on/off functionality was also prioritized. The positive reception from users upon launch is a testament to the dedication put into developing this technology, which will remain a key differentiator for Samsung Galaxy moving forward.

Expanding Quick Share Compatibility

In addition to these advancements, the Galaxy S26 series will also support compatibility with AirDrop, with further updates rolling out soon through software enhancements.

In conclusion, the future of Samsung Galaxy looks promising, with robust technological advancements setting the stage for continued innovation in mobile devices. The company's dual focus on powerful hardware and cutting-edge software lays a strong foundation for Samsung's role in the AI landscape, enhancing user experience while pushing boundaries in mobile technology.

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