Samsung Galaxy S26 Leak: AI, Custom Chip, Cameras That Redefine Phones
Samsung teases Galaxy S26 series with AI features, Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite, advanced cameras, foldables, and productivity tools for 2026 launch.
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Samsung has given a subtle hint regarding its next flagship series, the Galaxy S26, during the earnings call for the third quarter of 2025 which has now become the official word on the new devices. The Vice President of Mobile Experience Division at Samsung, Daniel Araujo, characterized the devices of the next generation as “user-oriented AI, a second-generation custom AP, and better performance from new camera sensors.”
It is highly projected that the Galaxy S26 series will be released in the early part of 2026. Araujo's mention of a “custom AP” hints at the new Exynos 2600 processor from Samsung which is the first 2nm chip made in-house by the company. Some specific markets are likely to get the phone versions running on this chip, but the other areas would probably have the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 powering the S26+, and S26 Ultra models as per the company’s dual-chip strategy.
Market pundits predict that the basic Galaxy S26 will be equipped with the Exynos 2600, while the higher models will be using the Snapdragon hardware. Araujo pointed out that the ultimate chipset choice is still under consideration, adding that Samsung “can’t quite confirm our flagship lineup for next year,” hence making it open for alterations before launch.
Not only hardware, but the Galaxy S26 series is also likely to increase AI-driven functionalities. The on-device intelligence is believed to enhance photography, performance management, and productivity tools optimization. Camera upgrades are also expected, with possible enhancements in low-light imaging and computational photography skills.
Samsung’s strategy for 2026 indicates two main concerns: artificial intelligence innovations and new designs. Vice President Araujo stated that Samsung will not shrink its foldable phone lineup and that the latest smartwatches will come with more powerful health-oriented AI capabilities.
Notwithstanding slight drops in the North American and South Korean markets, Samsung's total performance for the quarter was strong, thereby, the company's sales of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices that are top-of-the-line played a major role in this performance. The firm also pointed out the possibility of higher prices for materials, insinuating that the price of mobile phones might go up in 2026.
