At MWC 2026, Samsung ushered in a new era of mobility by unveiling its flagship Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds 4 headphones. The latest devices focus on proactive artificial intelligence and innovative hardware solutions, such as screens that prevent bystanders from viewing content. Despite higher prices resulting from more expensive components, the manufacturer is enticing customers with a wide pre-order offer and a guarantee of multi-year system support.
Innovative privacy screens
Magic Display technology prevents screen viewing from an angle, protecting data from bystanders.
Second generation Galaxy AI
The system offers proactive assistance, automating tasks and optimizing device performance in real time.
Price increase for flagships
The manufacturer confirmed that the higher prices of the S26 are due to record costs of RAM and raw materials.
Debut of Buds 4 headphones
The new generation of audio accessories offers sound quality aspiring to be the leader in the premium headphone market.
This year's presentation of Samsung's flagship Galaxy S26 series marks a clear turning point in the giant's strategy, which aims to create a new ecosystem based on advanced artificial intelligence. The S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra models introduce the second generation of Galaxy AI, which not only responds to commands but takes the initiative in assisting the user. However, the most excitement is generated by the Magic Display technology, which solves the problem of so-called shoulder surfing. A special polarizing layer makes the content on the screen visible only to the person holding the phone perpendicular to their eyes, drastically increasing security in public places. Simultaneously with the phones, the Galaxy Buds 4 headphones and their Pro variant debuted, aiming to challenge Apple's dominance in the audio accessories market. The new design emphasizes ergonomics and sound quality, and initial reviews suggest Samsung has come close to the ideal of truly wireless headphones. However, it is worth noting voices of skepticism regarding the Ultra model. Some analysts point out that despite phenomenal image stabilization, compared to external gimbals, the device is merely an evolution of its predecessor, not a revolution. The manufacturer explains the high price of the series by the rising costs of RAM and rarer materials used in casing production. Since 2010, the Galaxy S series has defined standards for Android smartphones, introducing groundbreaking solutions such as AMOLED displays and multi-lens cameras, which over time become the market norm.However, Samsung's strategic direction extends beyond hardware alone. Company representatives openly speak of the ambition to create a new version of the operating system in collaboration with Google, which would be fully optimized for AI, aiming to ultimately surpass Apple in terms of service fluidity and functionality. In the shadow of the flagship launches, leaks also emerged about upcoming mid-range A37 and A57 models, which are set to inherit some AI features from their more expensive siblings. The overall market atmosphere is complemented by aggressive campaigns from telecommunications operators such as Orange and T-Mobile, who have launched pre-orders, offering discounts and bonuses intended to neutralize the higher starting price of the new flagships. „Samsung exec confirms you can blame RAM -- and other materials -- for the Galaxy S26's higher pricetag” — Samsung representative
Mentioned People
- TM Roh — Head of Samsung's mobile division, a key figure behind the Galaxy AI strategy.