Samsung Galaxy S26 may bring a new name, Perplexity AI integration, and improved performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. [Photo: X/Tech Knight]
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is one of the most awaited smartphone series in 2026, featuring a possible rebrand of the base model to S26 Pro, Perplexity AI integration, faster Qi2 wireless charging, and improved performance with the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.
Leaks also hint at subtle design changes inspired by Apple, larger displays, refined cameras, and a revamped S Pen for better compatibility. Samsung is expected to unveil the S26 series in late January to early February 2026.
Samsung may shake up its lineup next year. The company might drop the Galaxy S Plus model due to low sales and focus on three phones — the S26 Pro (base model), S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra.
Reports suggest that Samsung could rename the base variant as “S26 Pro” to reflect its enhanced features. However, the company is still testing multiple prototypes and has not finalized whether the Edge will replace the Plus.
Samsung usually launches its Galaxy S phones between January and February, and the same schedule is expected for the S26 lineup. Prices remain under wraps, but more leaks should appear closer to launch.
Leaked renders hint that Samsung could take inspiration from Apple’s new iPhone 17 design. The S26 Pro may feature a vertical triple-camera bump, while the S26 Edge could get a wide, horizontal bump similar to the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The S26 Ultra is expected to sport three vertical cameras and one sensor on the side. Samsung may also launch a new cosmic orange colour for the Ultra model.
The S Pen stylus might also get an upgrade. Samsung reportedly wants to make it fully compatible with Qi2 wireless charging accessories, which were limited in the S25 Ultra due to interference issues.
Samsung may tweak display sizes slightly this year:
Samsung is reportedly working with Perplexity AI to integrate its search technology into Galaxy S26 phones. The company may preload the AI-powered search engine and add it to the Samsung Internet Browser. The phones will run One UI 8 based on Android 16, which already appears on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.
All S26 models are likely to feature the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. Qualcomm claims it is 20% faster and 35% more power-efficient than last year’s processor. Samsung may still use Exynos chips in select regions.
Camera upgrades may be minor this year. The S26 Pro could retain its 50MP main sensor, while the S26 Ultra keeps the 200MP lens with a wider f/1.4 aperture.
Rumours of a 324MP sensor exist but seem unlikely. As reviewer Jim Fisher noted, “Really, what the heck are people using phone cameras for [that would require] going beyond 50MP practically?”
Samsung might finally introduce true Qi2 wireless charging with magnetic rings on the back, boosting wireless speeds from 15W to 25W. The S26 Ultra may support 60W wired charging and a larger 5,400 mAh battery, up from 5,000 mAh.
The integration of Perplexity AI marks a major shift in Samsung’s strategy. The Galaxy S26 might become more than just a smartphone — it could be Samsung’s first real step toward an AI-first Galaxy experience that blends power, design, and intelligence in one ecosystem.
