Samsung is gearing up to unveil its new Galaxy S26 series, but fans are already facing a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Early rumours suggested the tech giant would simplify its flagship lineup, cutting it down to three models instead of the usual four.
Those hopes now seem dashed, as leaks point to Samsung sticking with its familiar setup, offering phones that look a lot like the Galaxy S25.
With the launch drawing near, the focus has shifted to pricing, a topic where answers are still hard to come by. South Korea’s Maeil Business Newspaper recently reported that the S26 series could be priced similarly to last year’s models, which makes sense given the phones offer only minor upgrades.
In Pakistan, the Galaxy S25 Ultra currently sells for up to Rs450,000, and early leaks suggest the S26 Ultra could start around Rs550,000.
But the story doesn’t end there. Korean outlet FN News, quoting analyst Jukan, says Samsung may have little choice but to raise prices. Rising costs for components like DRAM and NAND, combined with a weaker Korean won, are putting pressure on Samsung’s Mobile Experience division.
If the estimates are correct, the 256GB models of the S26 could cost up to 88,000 won (around $60) more than their S25 counterparts.
This would mark the first time in four generations that Samsung has increased its base prices. In South Korea, the S26 Ultra 256GB could start at about 1.8 million won (roughly $1,245), though that’s still lower than the S25 Ultra’s price in the US.
Samsung may not pass these hikes to other markets. Reports suggest the Galaxy S26 could still start at $799.99 in the US, with the Plus and Ultra models priced at $999.99 and $1,299.99.
In short, it looks like South Korean buyers might end up shouldering impact of higher production costs and currency fluctuations.
The Galaxy S26 series is expected to make its official debut on February 25 at an event in San Jose, California.
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