Samsung introduced the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra models at the Galaxy Unpacked event held in San Francisco on February 25. In this new series, the Galaxy AI capabilities have been expanded, and a new Privacy Screen feature has been introduced in the Ultra model.

Samsung stated that the Galaxy S26 series represents the most advanced steps in on-device artificial intelligence, with deeper integration with One UI and numerous AI agents working between applications and system features.

TM Roh, CEO of Samsung’s Device Experience Division, expressed that the company focuses on ensuring that artificial intelligence “works quietly in the background.”

Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra Hardware Features

The Galaxy S26 series consists of three models:

  • Galaxy S26
  • Galaxy S26+
  • Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung explained that all three devices have a sleek design, but there are differences in battery capacity, weight, and camera hardware.

The weight of the Galaxy S26 is 167g, while the weight of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is 214g. Their battery capacities are as follows:

  • Galaxy S26 Ultra: 5,000 mAh
  • Galaxy S26+: 4,900 mAh

In terms of processor hardware, the Galaxy S26 Ultra operates with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, while the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ use the Exynos 2600 processor in some markets.

Color options include Cobalt Purple, Black, Sky Blue, and White.

Built-in Privacy Screen Introduced in Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out with a new Privacy Screen feature. Samsung describes this feature as a built-in screen privacy system that darkens certain areas of the screen when viewed from the sides.

Users can choose which areas to hide and can toggle this feature on and off. This feature is designed to reduce the visibility of sensitive information such as messages and passwords in public spaces.

The S26 Ultra also features a quad-camera system with the following specifications:

  • 200 MP wide-angle lens
  • 10x optical zoom telephoto lens

Samsung noted that the device supports the Advanced Professional Video codec designed to ensure quality is maintained during multiple edits. Additional camera enhancements include an improved Night Vision Video feature in the Ultra model, horizontal lock stabilization, and updated AI-Powered Photo Assistant tools.

Samsung Expands Galaxy AI in One UI

Samsung highlighted the expanded artificial intelligence functionality in the Galaxy S26 series through One UI.

New features include:

  • Now Notify provides contextual suggestions based on on-screen activities.
  • Now Brief offers a personalized summary of relevant information.
  • Creative Studio combines AI photo and video editing tools supported by text prompts.
  • Draw to Search is a feature that allows users to draw on screen objects and initiate searches.
  • Finder searches for relevant details between devices and applications.

Samsung also confirmed that it has partnered with Perplexity, making this AI assistant the first non-Google assistant to support a wake word on Galaxy devices. Perplexity joins Bixby and Google Gemini as selectable AI agents in the Galaxy S26 series.

Google’s search scanning functionality is also extended to the S26 series, while the AI-powered document scanning feature automatically removes shadows and distortions.

Samsung Introduced New Headphones (Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro)

Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Buds4 and Galaxy Buds4 Pro models.

The Buds4 Pro features Super Wide Woofer, enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, and Adaptive EQ. Both models support hands-free AI controls and Live Translator translation in over 20 languages.

Retail prices:

  • Galaxy Buds4: $179
  • Galaxy Buds4 Pro: $249

Pricing and Availability of the Galaxy S26 Series

The Galaxy S26 series has been available for pre-order since February 25 through Samsung.com, major retailers, and carriers. General sales will begin on March 11, 2026.

Samsung is offering $900 with eligible trade-in credit or $150 without trade-in on its website for a limited time. Carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are offering device promotions tied to new lines and 36-month installment plans; bill credits are applied throughout the contract period.

Promotion eligibility and trade-in requirements vary by carrier and plan.