An undated image of Samsung Galaxy S25 FE. — Samsung
Since the frenzy around the iPhone 17 series seems to have run its course, the world of smartphones is now on the lookout for its direct rival, the Galaxy S26 series, and a fresh leak has stirred excitement among those awaiting.
When will Galaxy S26 launch?
The rumour, disseminated by a Korean outlet Money Today (via Jukan on X), hinted that Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 series at an Unpacked event in San Francisco on February 25, 2026.
It must be noted that the Galaxy S26 launch date has not officially been corroborated by the Galaxy maker. However, industry sources suggested that preparations for the launch are ongoing.
If accurate, this would be Samsung's first Galaxy S event in San Francisco since the Galaxy S23 series launch in 2023. An insider reportedly stated, “Samsung is preparing for the San Francisco Unpacked event, its first in three years since the S23 in 2023.
With San Francisco emerging as a hub for AI technology, it is the ideal location for Samsung, which has introduced the AI smartphone era, to hold its event.”
The proposed February 25 date confirms earlier speculation about a delayed launch for the Galaxy S26 series, as Samsung typically holds its Unpacked events in late January or early February. For instance, the Galaxy S25 series was announced on January 22, 2025. Previous reports suggested that the new flagships could experience minor delays due to internal adjustments.
Discussions, privy to the public and the mainstream coverage, also surfaced about the base Galaxy S26 being replaced with a new “Pro” variant and the introduction of an “Edge” version instead of the standard Plus model.
Nevertheless, after the disappointing reception of the Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung has decided to maintain the traditional trio: Basic, Plus, and Ultra.