The Launch of Samsung Galaxy S26 Series
On February 26, 2026, Samsung Electronics Japan will begin pre-orders for the highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S26 Series, which includes the Samsung Galaxy S26, Samsung Galaxy S26+, and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. This new line promises to redefine smartphone capabilities with its groundbreaking AI technology, high-performance hardware, and top-of-the-line camera systems. The official sales will commence on March 12, 2026, at au stores across Japan and via the au Online Shop.
The Galaxy S26 Series represents Samsung's third-generation AI smartphone, designed to simplify everyday tasks such as schedule management, information search, and content creation through proactive assistance. This innovative technology minimizes operational effort by autonomously performing complex processes in the background, allowing users to focus on creativity and productivity without the distractions of technology.
One standout feature is the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which boasts an industry-first integrated privacy display, ensuring both privacy and an enhanced visual experience. Additionally, the device incorporates customized chipsets and an improved cooling system, resulting in a thin, yet powerful phone capable of rapid AI processing.
TM Roh, Samsung Electronics' CEO and Head of Device Experience, stated, "The Galaxy S26 Series was designed with a vision that AI should be accessible to all, eliminating the need for special knowledge. Our focus is on creating a seamless experience that allows users to concentrate on what matters most to them."
Unmatched Performance
The Galaxy S26 Series is equipped with Samsung's most powerful hardware yet, featuring the customized Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor. This allows for optimal AI processing capabilities while maintaining energy efficiency and thermal management. The advanced performance translates to consistent operation, even during demanding tasks.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra enhances the user experience with a remarkable performance boost across CPU, GPU, and NPU, leading to faster responses even when multitasking. This model displays a CPU performance increase of up to 19%, with an NPU enhancement of 39% for the always-on Galaxy AI. The GPU performance has also improved by 24%, offering immersive visuals and a smooth gaming experience.
To sustain such performance, the Galaxy S26 Ultra features a newly designed multi-channel vapor chamber to improve heat dissipation. Rapid charging capabilities mean it can reach up to 75% in about 30 minutes, reassuring users with all-day power.
Advanced technologies such as ProScaler elevate visual performance by refining image scaling accuracy and enhancing details, while the mDNle engine achieves an image processing precision four times greater than its predecessor, providing natural color representation.
Superior Camera System
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Series is equipped with the most intuitive camera system in Samsung's history, designed to make photography and videography accessible to all. With improved light intake capabilities and new night graphy features, users can capture vibrant images in low-light settings.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra harnesses a wider aperture to allow more light into its roughly 200-megapixel wide camera, and its enhanced super stabilization technology ensures consistent framing, even in dynamic environments.
Furthermore, the updated photo editor facilitates easy adjustments and enhancements using AI tools. Users can now edit photos through simple verbal prompts, turning daytime scenes into night or filling in missing details with unprecedented ease. The creative studio combines all these features, allowing users to generate sophisticated visuals seamlessly.
Enhanced Galaxy AI Experience
As the third generation of Samsung's AI phone, the Galaxy S26 Series offers an unprecedented AI experience that understands user intent and minimizes steps to complete tasks. The system is designed to propose relevant suggestions at optimal times, enhancing everyday phone experiences. Features like Now Nudge actively assist users while maintaining an efficient workflow.
Additionally, the Galaxy S26 Series integrates Bixby and other AI agents, allowing for easy interaction without the use of technical jargon. This simplification enables users to automate tasks smoothly and interact with their devices using natural dialogue.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series sets a new standard for smartphones, merging cutting-edge technologies with user-centric design, ensuring that the future of mobile communication is both intuitive and powerful.