Samsung is getting ready to unveil its premium and next flagship smartphones-the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Unlike previous years, the Galaxy Unpacked launch event will not take place in mid or late January. Instead, the company is expected to push the launch to late February 2026, marking a shift in its usual release schedule.
ALSO READ | Here's how Meta plans to use nuclear energy to power its future AI centres
The delay is believed to be linked to changes in Samsung’s product strategy. Reports suggest that the Galaxy S26 Edge has been dropped after weak sales of the S25 Edge. At the same time, Samsung is sticking to its familiar lineup, keeping the Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra, similar to past generations. This reshuffle is said to have affected production timelines, resulting in a later launch window.
What to expect?
Well-known Samsung tipsters Evan Blass (@evleaks) and @IceUniversse have both said that 'Galaxy Unpacked' will take place in San Francisco on Wednesday, February 25. If Samsung follows last year’s pattern, the event is likely to begin around 1 pm Eastern Time (10 am Pacific Time).
Samsung is expected to officially announce the Unpacked date a couple of weeks earlier than the launch.
Going by last year’s timeline, invitations could be sent out during the week starting Monday, February 9. The timing also works in Samsung’s favour, as the launch will happen just days before Mobile World Congress begins in Barcelona on March 2, helping the company dominate the global smartphone conversation.
ALSO READ | Instagram introduces 'Restyle' for stories: Edit photos instantly while uploading
Pre-orders and future Galaxy S26 models
As with previous launches, Samsung is expected to open pre-orders for the Galaxy S26 lineup immediately after the keynote ends. Pre-orders are likely to begin around February 22, allowing eager buyers to book their devices ahead of retail availability.
In India, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could cross Rs 1,35,000, with rising global RAM prices potentially pushing costs even higher.
Samsung is also expected to add a fourth model to the lineup later in the year- the Galaxy S26 FE.
The Fan Edition version is usually a more affordable option that offers many flagship features at a lower price. Like earlier FE models, the S26 FE is likely to launch months after the main Galaxy S26 series and will cater to budget-conscious buyers looking for a premium Samsung experience.