The Korean giant has officially unveiled its flagship Galaxy S26 smartphone series, including the Ultra model, and the new Galaxy Buds4 earbuds. The novelties include batteries with higher energy density and deep integration with the next-generation Bixby assistant, which debuts in a Polish-language version. Despite innovations in video stabilization technology and satellite connectivity, the lack of magnets as standard and the significant scale of price increases compared to predecessors are causing a stir.
New Battery Technology
Samsung introduces cells with higher density, which realistically extends the battery life of the flagship S26 series models.
Bixby in Polish in One UI 8.5
The voice assistant finally receives Polish localization and the ability to independently order external services.
Lack of Magnets and Accessories
The manufacturer abandoned built-in magnets to avoid interfering with the stylus's operation and proposes a new magnetic charger.
The official presentation of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series marks a significant turning point in the strategy of the Korean manufacturer, which after nearly a decade has decided to take bold steps in the construction of its flagships. The central point of the new offer is the Galaxy S26 Ultra model, equipped with a completely new battery technology. Samsung confirmed the introduction of cells with increased energy density, which is intended to extend battery life without increasing the device's dimensions. This innovation is a response to the growing power demands of processors handling artificial intelligence. Since the launch of the Galaxy S6 model in 2015, Samsung has progressively evolved towards a unibody construction, abandoning removable batteries in favor of water resistance and luxurious design. In the software layer, the key element is the One UI 8.5 overlay, which introduces a thoroughly refreshed Bixby assistant. The new software version allows for the automation of daily tasks, such as ordering food or transport via voice commands. Poland has been distinguished as one of the first countries with access to the new features, ending the long wait of domestic users for full voice functionality in Polish. Simultaneously, the Galaxy Buds4 earbuds were presented, offering better sound quality and intelligent noise reduction. Despite the enthusiasm for the technology, experts point to controversies. Samsung explained that the lack of built-in magnets (a MagSafe-type system) is due to care for the precision of the S Pen stylus, forcing users to purchase dedicated cases and external magnetic chargers. „The next generation Bixby is not just an assistant, it is a personal coordinator of your digital life.” — Samsung Representative The market situation of the S26 series in Poland is characterized by dynamic pre-order offers from major telecommunications operators. Orange, T-Mobile, and Play networks have prepared packages with 0% installment plans and bonuses in the form of earbuds. At the same time, it was noted that older models, like the S25 series, are officially becoming cheaper on the Polish market, which is a signal for consumers looking for savings. The satellite connectivity feature, although present in hardware, will not initially be supported in Poland, which is a certain disappointment given the brand's global ambitions regarding user safety and coverage in emergency situations.
Perspektywy mediów: Technology media focus on AI innovations and new batteries, praising Samsung for catching up with the competition in the software sphere. Consumer and financial services point out the high scale of price increases and the need to purchase accessories, such as magnetic chargers.