Samsung just wrapped up Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, 2026, unveiling the highly anticipated Galaxy S26 series: Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. As expected, the focus is on refined design, major camera improvements (especially zoom/low-light video), advanced Galaxy AI, and long-term software support—without revolutionary changes like bigger batteries.
For Indian buyers, the Ultra remains a premium powerhouse competing with iPhone rumors and mid-rangers like iQOO 15R/Vivo V70. Here’s the official rundown, key highlights, India pricing, and early impressions based on the event and hands-on teases.
Official Launch & Availability in India
- Announced: February 25, 2026 (Galaxy Unpacked live stream)
- Pre-orders: Started immediately (Samsung.com, Amazon, Flipkart)
- Sales Start: Early March 2026
- India Offers: Expect strong launch deals—trade-ins, bank cashback (HDFC/ICICI), no-cost EMI, and bundled Galaxy Buds/Watch
Design & Display: Sleeker & More Practical
- Slimmer & Lighter: Ultra at 7.9mm thick / 214g (noticeable improvement)
- Rounder Corners: Better one-handed grip
- Colors: Cobalt Violet (standout hero), Black, Sky Blue, White + online exclusives
- Displays:
- S26: 6.3-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz
- S26+: 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz
- Ultra: 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED, 1-120Hz adaptive, up to 2600 nits, new Privacy Display (anti-side viewing)
- Build: IP68, Armor Aluminum/Gorilla Glass, S Pen on Ultra
Early hands-on: Feels premium and pocketable; Privacy Display is a clever addition for public use.
Camera: The Star Upgrade
Samsung delivered on teasers—enhanced zoom and low-light video:
- Ultra: 200MP main (f/1.4 aperture for superior light), 50MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x + 50MP 5x periscope, 12MP selfie
- S26/S26+: Upgraded 50MP+ main/ultrawide, improved processing
- Features: Better Nightography, AI EdgeFusion (fast on-device image gen), pro video modes, zoom demos show crisp results beyond 10x
First impressions: Low-light and video look noticeably sharper; could challenge current camera kings.
Performance & Software: Flagship Speed + AI Smarts
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (global; Exynos 2600 in some India units—close performance)
- RAM/Storage: 12GB+ starting, up to 1TB
- Software: Android 16 + One UI 8.5 (7+ years OS/security updates)
- Galaxy AI: Advanced agents, smarter photo editing, call screening, new quick AI tools
Blazing for gaming/multitasking; AI feels more useful than gimmicky.
Battery & Charging: Solid but No Surprise
- Ultra: 5000mAh (same capacity, but efficiency gains)
- Charging: 60W wired (faster), 25W wireless (Qi2 support via cases)
- S26/S26+: Similar or minor boosts
Battery life should be excellent with optimizations—no complaints expected.
India Pricing (Official/Expected)
- Galaxy S26: Starting ~₹75,000–₹85,000
- Galaxy S26+: ~₹95,000–₹1,05,000
- Galaxy S26 Ultra (256GB base): ~₹1,20,000–₹1,35,000+ (higher variants more; effective lower with offers)
Samsung’s India pricing often drops significantly post-launch with promotions.
First Impressions & Who Should Buy It
The S26 series refines what worked: slimmer feel, privacy features, top cameras, and AI polish. No huge leaps (battery same), but refinements make it compelling for upgrades from S23/S24 or Android switchers.
- Pick Ultra if you want pro cameras, S Pen, best display/AI.
- S26/S26+ for balanced premium without Ultra premium.
In February’s lineup, it stands tall against mid-rangers (Vivo V70/iQOO 15R) for power users.
What do you think—Galaxy S26 Ultra worth the price, or eyeing something else? Share in comments, and subscribe for detailed comparisons (S26 Ultra vs iQOO 15R, vs Pixel 10a), camera samples, battery tests, and more post-launch coverage!
