The Samsung Galaxy S26 series had a lot of hype surrounding its release, with many expecting exciting upgrades. But recent leaks suggest that the anticipated improvements may not be as significant as hoped. Samsung seems to be shifting gears, deciding against raising prices while cutting back on features.
For a while now, Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series has seen only minor changes—just small tweaks rather than a genuine evolution. The move from the Galaxy S22 to the S25 didn’t wow anyone. Many were eager for the Galaxy S26 series to finally shake things up.
As early as last summer, rumors about the Galaxy S26 began surfacing. Speculation indicated that Samsung would eliminate the mid-range Plus model and focus on thinner versions, with expected upgrades like Qi2 support and enhanced cameras. But as reports surfaced, it became clear that many of these improvements were scrapped post the iPhone 17’s announcement.
Instead of delivering major upgrades, the Galaxy S26 series will feature modest changes. The Ultra model may become thinner, and there could be slightly faster wireless charging. But overall, expectations have dwindled.
The main reason behind this pivot? Samsung noticed that Apple had released its iPhone 17 without increasing prices. They decided to match that strategy, leading to a reduction in planned features. This decision may help with costs, but it seems like a big letdown for fans wanting a fresh experience.
Leaked pricing data indicates that the Galaxy S26 could start at €1,049, which is a €100 increase compared to its predecessor. In France, it’s projected that the price for the base model will rise by €40, and for the Ultra variant, it’ll remain unchanged but with higher storage options seeing price bumps of around €100.
Here’s a brief look at the pricing comparisons:
| Storage | Galaxy S25 | Galaxy S26 |
| 256GB | €959 | €999 |
| 512GB | €1,079 | €1,199 |
| 1TB | N/A | N/A |
While these price adjustments are not groundbreaking, they feel frustrating given the lack of new features. This reflects a broader trend in the tech world—prices are rising, even as companies struggle to deliver innovative products.
Experts in consumer electronics suggest that this volatility is influenced by global supply chain pressures and rising manufacturing costs. As a result, many buyers might face higher price tags without the excitement of new technology.
In conclusion, while Samsung is trying to avoid alienating customers by not raising prices, it risks disappointing them with a lack of meaningful upgrades. Enthusiasm for the Galaxy S26 series may fade as reactions from users and experts highlight the frustration over missed expectations.
For more updates on the Galaxy S26, check out this article on Dealabs.
