[News] Samsung Reportedly Eyes Feb. 2026 Galaxy S26 Launch; Ultra Model May Stick With Qualcomm

Samsung is moving forward with its Exynos comeback, aiming to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm chips. According to Chosun Biz, citing sources, Samsung Electronics plans to use the Exynos 2600 in the base and Plus models, while the Ultra model will continue to feature Qualcomm’s mobile application processor (AP).

As the report highlights, Samsung Electronics is set to unveil the Galaxy S26 in February 2026. Though a March launch was previously rumored, the company’s coordinated efforts have advanced the release schedule. According to the report, citing sources, Samsung is expected to hold its Galaxy S26 Unpacked event in late January 2026.

Samsung May Raise Prices for Qualcomm-Powered Galaxy S26 Ultra

This year, Samsung equipped all Galaxy S25 models with Qualcomm APs, which are more expensive than its in-house Exynos chips, yet kept prices flat from the previous generation. However, industry sources cited in the report anticipate that higher component costs and tariffs could result in a price hike for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which uses a Qualcomm AP.

As for when the Ultra model might adopt an Exynos chip, industry experts cited in the report suggest this will likely happen no earlier than the 2027 lineup (Galaxy S27). The report adds that the more Samsung expands the use of its in-house APs, the stronger its price negotiation leverage with Qualcomm will become.

The Ultra model has consistently been the top seller in the Galaxy S lineup, according to SammyGuru. Samsung reportedly remains cautious about potential instability or yield challenges associated with its 2nm process. By choosing Snapdragon for the Ultra model, the report notes, Samsung aims to ensure stable global performance and maintain consumer confidence, especially after the backlash surrounding earlier Exynos-powered models like the Galaxy S22 series, which faced criticism for overheating and performance throttling.

Samsung Reportedly Drops Edge Model from Galaxy S26 Lineup

In addition, the report, citing sources, indicates that the Galaxy S26 lineup has been revised. According to sources, Samsung Electronics had initially planned to launch an ultra-slim “Edge” model, but amid concerns over sluggish sales, it brought back the Plus model instead. The adjustment extended the hardware verification process and nearly delayed the launch, but the issue has since been resolved, allowing for a February release next year, as noted by the report, citing sources.

Read more

• [News] Qualcomm Expects to Supply 75% of Galaxy S26 amid Samsung’s Exynos Comeback Drive
• [News] Samsung Exynos 2600 May Cover Just 30% of Galaxy S26 Production Amid Reported Yield Issues

(Photo credit: Samsung)