Samsung is preparing to launch its Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, and leaks suggest that this generation will focus on refinement, wireless charging upgrades, and a dramatic new design for the Edge model. While the Pro and Ultra models look set to follow familiar design language, the Edge variant could be the most visually distinct Galaxy flagship Samsung has released in years.
Galaxy S26 Pro: Continuity with Small Upgrades
The Galaxy S26 Pro is expected to retain much of the design style seen in the S25. Reports indicate a triple-camera setup housed in a vertically aligned, slightly raised module. This refined look is inspired by the design approach Samsung already applies to its Galaxy Z Fold series.
The Pro model will likely appeal to users seeking a balance between performance and design without the bulk of the Ultra. While major structural changes are not expected, Samsung may make subtle improvements in ergonomics, display brightness, and software integration.
Summary Table
Feature |
Galaxy S26 Pro |
Galaxy S26 Edge |
Galaxy S26 Ultra |
---|---|---|---|
Launch Window |
Jan-Feb 2026 |
Jan-Feb 2026 |
Jan-Feb 2026 |
Camera Layout |
Vertical triple camera |
Wide horizontal bar, dual cameras on left |
Penta-camera, vertical alignment |
Thickness |
Similar to S25 |
~5.5 mm body, ~10.8 mm with camera bump |
Curvier build, more ergonomic |
Battery Capacity |
Small upgrade expected |
~4,200 mAh (up from 3,900 mAh) |
Comparable or slightly larger than S25 |
Wireless Charging |
Qi2 support, up to 15-25W (TBC) |
Qi2 support, up to 15-25W (TBC) |
Qi2 support, up to 15-25W (TBC) |
Reverse Charging |
Possibly removed |
Possibly removed |
Possibly removed |
Notable Features |
Balanced flagship |
Bold new design, ultra-thin, Apple-inspired camera housing |
S Pen support, curved body, top-end specs |
Official Site: Samsung
Galaxy S26 Ultra: Refinement with Curved Aesthetics
The Ultra variant has always been Samsung’s showcase for cutting-edge features, and the S26 Ultra will likely continue this tradition. It is tipped to feature a penta-camera system, possibly with further refinements in zoom and computational photography.
Unlike its predecessor, the Ultra may have slightly curvier edges, making it more comfortable to hold while still maintaining a premium aesthetic. The S Pen integration is expected to remain a defining feature, and Samsung could improve its latency and additional functions.
In terms of size and build, the Ultra should remain similar to the S25 Ultra, though its camera housing may adopt the vertically elevated style seen on other 2026 Galaxy models.
Galaxy S26 Edge: The Boldest Redesign
The Galaxy S26 Edge stands out as the most experimental member of the lineup. Unlike the Pro and Ultra, which evolve existing designs, the Edge introduces a horizontal camera bar across the rear panel. Despite spanning the phone’s full width, the module will only contain two camera lenses, positioned on the left-hand side.
This design echoes the layout of Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro series, hinting that Samsung may be responding to Apple’s design direction while adding its own twist.
Leaked renders suggest the S26 Edge will be incredibly slim around 5.5 mm thick, excluding the camera bump, which could extend the thickness to around 10.8 mm. Despite the slim profile, Samsung is rumored to increase the battery size from 3,900 mAh (S25 Edge) to about 4,200 mAh.
The Edge model is shaping up to be a bold attempt to balance striking design with practical performance.
Qi2 Wireless Charging: A Magnetic Upgrade
One of the most exciting upgrades across the entire S26 lineup is the addition of Qi2 wireless charging. Leaked images show a circular cutout on the back of all three devices, suggesting the inclusion of magnetic coils similar to Apple’s MagSafe and Google’s Pixel 10.
Qi2 charging ensures stronger magnetic alignment between the phone and compatible chargers, reducing energy loss and improving efficiency. Currently, Qi2 supports 15W charging, but the Wireless Power Consortium has recently introduced a 25W tier. It is unclear whether Samsung will adopt this faster standard or remain limited to 15W.
However, integrating magnets for Qi2 may force Samsung to drop reverse wireless charging a feature that lets Galaxy phones charge other devices like earbuds and smartwatches. This trade-off has already been seen in Google’s Pixel 10 lineup.
Expected Launch Timeline
Samsung typically unveils its flagship Galaxy S series in January or February, and leaks suggest the S26 series will follow this schedule. This means the Galaxy S26 lineup could debut shortly after Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, which are expected to launch in September 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the Galaxy S26 series launch?
A. The series is expected to be revealed in January or February 2026 at Samsung’s Unpacked event.
Q2: What models will be available?
A. Reports suggest Samsung will release three models: the Galaxy S26 Pro, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra.
Q3: What is new about the S26 Edge?
A. The Edge model will introduce a full-width horizontal camera module, a bigger battery (~4,200 mAh), and an extremely slim profile (~5.5 mm).
Q4: Will Qi2 wireless charging be included?
A. Yes, all models are expected to support Qi2 magnetic charging with improved alignment and efficiency. Charging speeds may reach 15W or 25W, depending on Samsung’s final decision.
Q5: Will reverse wireless charging still be available?
A. Probably not. Due to internal design changes with Qi2, Samsung may remove reverse charging, similar to the Pixel 10 lineup.
Q6: How will the Ultra differ from the Pro?
A. The Ultra will feature a penta-camera system, a more curved design for comfort, and continued support for the S Pen, while the Pro will retain a more compact, straightforward flagship form.
Q7: How does the S26 compare to the iPhone 17 Pro?
A. The S26 Edge design is seen as Samsung’s response to Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro, which also adopts a horizontal camera bar.
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