Tag: Galaxy S26

  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launches with Global Satellite Features

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launches with Global Satellite Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung introduced satellite communication in 2025 for Galaxy flagship models, now available in the Galaxy S26 series.
    2. The satellite communication feature allows direct connection to satellites when traditional mobile signals are unavailable.
    3. Samsung is partnering with telecom operators like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the US for global satellite communication coverage.
    4. The feature is also available in Europe through Virgin Media O2 and will expand with trials in Spain’s MasOrange.
    5. In Asia, satellite-based services have launched in Japan via KDDI, with plans to extend to more Galaxy devices and carriers.

    Samsung first introduced satellite communication in 2025 on some of its Galaxy flagship models. Now, this feature can be found on the recently launched Galaxy S26 series, which consists of the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra, as mentioned in a press release.

    Direct Satellite Connection

    With satellite communication, a smartphone can link directly to satellites in space, even when traditional mobile signals from cell towers are unavailable. This function acts as a backup when the device is used in isolated locations or during emergencies.

    Partnerships for Global Reach

    Samsung is collaborating with telecom operators across North America, Europe, and Japan to provide satellite communication on its devices. In the US, the company is teaming up with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. T-Mobile’s satellite service, which works with SpaceX’s Starlink, is already live on the Galaxy A and S series.

    The South Korean tech giant has announced plans to broaden the service around the world. In Europe, the feature is offered through Virgin Media O2 in the UK. Trials are set to commence with Spain’s MasOrange in March 2026. Additionally, Samsung is also aligning with Vodafone.

    Expanding in Asia

    In Asia, Samsung has activated satellite-based text and data services in Japan via the KDDI network, starting with the S22 models. The company plans to extend these capabilities to various Galaxy flagships and Galaxy A devices on carriers like SoftBank, Rakuten, and docomo.

    Samsung is making significant strides in making satellite communication more accessible, ensuring users can stay connected even in challenging situations.

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  • Xiaomi Announces Global Launch of New Leica Edition Flagship

    Xiaomi Announces Global Launch of New Leica Edition Flagship

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi will hold an international launch event on February 28, shortly after Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series announcement.
    2. The event will showcase Xiaomi’s alternatives to the Galaxy S26, specifically the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra.
    3. A new smartphone, the Leica Edition, will also be launched during the event, named the ‘Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi.’
    4. Teasers and previous leaks confirm the design of the Leica Leitzphone.
    5. Pricing details for the new devices have not yet been disclosed.

    Xiaomi has officially announced an international launch event happening this week. This event is set for February 28, and it will take place just under 72 hours after Samsung unveiled its Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra worldwide (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon).

    Teasers and Alternatives

    As is typical, Xiaomi has been sharing various teasers since they revealed the event date on February 20. In past teasers, Xiaomi has highlighted their alternatives to the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Ultra, which are the Xiaomi 17 and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. However, there are indications that a third smartphone is also on its way.

    New Confirmations

    Now, Xiaomi has confirmed this in a fresh teaser. The teaser, shown below, announces that the Leica Edition will be launched alongside the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra during the February 28 event. Moreover, it has been disclosed that this Leica Edition will be available globally as the ‘Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi’.

    Device Details

    Furthermore, the teaser shown below suggests that previously leaked images of the device were indeed correct. Therefore, we believe that the images presented above accurately depict how the Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi will appear when it officially launches on February 28. The pricing details are still not revealed at this moment, however.

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  • Samsung Launches 5,000 mAh Magnetic Power Bank for Galaxy S26

    Samsung Launches 5,000 mAh Magnetic Power Bank for Galaxy S26

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has launched the Qi2 Magnet Wireless Battery Pack as part of the Galaxy S26 collection.
    2. The power bank offers a maximum wireless charging speed of 15W and can charge two devices simultaneously.
    3. It features a USB-C port for faster charging at 25W and has a capacity of 5,000 mAh.
    4. The design includes a built-in kickstand and a cutout for the camera bar, ensuring compatibility with Galaxy S26 and S25 models.
    5. Pricing and availability details for the battery pack will be announced later.

    Samsung has silently introduced a new Qi2-certified wireless power bank as part of the recently revealed Galaxy S26 collection. Named the Qi2 Magnet Wireless Battery Pack, this accessory first appeared in the Wireless Power Consortium database back in June and is now officially part of Samsung’s latest trio of magnetic chargers that were unveiled during Galaxy Unpacked.

    Power and Compatibility

    In contrast to the Magnet Wireless Charger, which supports 25W Qi2 charging, this power bank offers a maximum of 15W wirelessly. However, it can easily attach to the back of S26 devices when used with a magnetic case, allowing for convenient charging on the move. For faster charging, there is an additional USB-C port that increases charging speeds to 25W. With a capacity of 5,000 mAh, which contributes to its slim design, this power bank can charge two devices at once.

    Design and Features

    Currently, the Qi2 Magnet Wireless Battery Pack is available only in grey. It features a built-in kickstand, allowing the phone to be propped up in landscape mode for watching videos or portrait mode for video calls. Additionally, a specially designed cutout at the top accommodates the distinctive camera bar on the Galaxy S26 and S25 models, ensuring a perfect fit for both the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the smaller S26.

    The Samsung Qi2 Magnet Wireless Battery Pack has been listed on the Samsung UK website, but information regarding pricing and availability will be revealed later on.

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  • Samsung Launches 25W Magnetic Charger with Galaxy S26 Series

    Samsung Launches 25W Magnetic Charger with Galaxy S26 Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung launched the Galaxy S26 series, featuring a new privacy screen, advanced AI capabilities, and faster charging options.
    2. The Samsung Magnet Wireless Charger is a Qi2-certified device, offering up to 25W wireless charging for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
    3. Charging speeds vary: Galaxy S26 Ultra supports 25W, S26 Plus supports 20W, and standard S26 supports 15W.
    4. Users need a magnetic case and a 45W adapter to achieve optimal charging speeds with the new Galaxy S26 models.
    5. The Samsung Magnet Wireless Charger is priced at $49.99, with an introductory offer of $34.99 available on the Samsung website.

    Samsung has revealed its new flagship Galaxy S26 series during the recent Galaxy Unpacked event, featuring enhancements such as a fresh privacy screen, advanced AI capabilities, and quicker charging options. In addition to the smartphones, Samsung also discreetly launched a range of accessories, which includes a novel Qi2 magnetic wireless charger.

    New Wireless Charger Details

    The Samsung Magnet Wireless Charger is a Qi2-certified device that resembles Apple’s MagSafe charger (curr: $37 at Amazon). It has a sleek 4.4 mm design and comes with a 1.5 m fabric USB-C cable, promising to withstand daily usage better. Thanks to its Qi2 support, this charger can provide up to 25W wireless charging for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, allowing it to achieve a 50% battery charge in less than an hour, according to Samsung.

    Charging Speed for Different Models

    Similar to the Google Pixel 10 series, only the premium Galaxy S26 Ultra can utilize the complete 25W Qi2 charging speed. The Galaxy S26 Plus is limited to 20W, while the standard Galaxy S26 has a maximum of 15W. However, to use the Magnet Wireless Charger with the new Galaxy S26 models, users will need a magnetic case and a 45W adapter to reach optimal charging speeds. The charger is also backward compatible with the Galaxy S25 series and other Qi2-certified smartphones.

    Compatibility and Pricing

    As with the Galaxy S25 series, the new Galaxy S26 smartphones lack built-in magnets but can still work with Qi2 wireless charging through magnetic cases. In the United States, customers can buy the new Samsung Magnet Wireless Charger directly from the Samsung website. It is listed at $49.99, but an introductory offer reduces the cost to $34.99.

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  • Samsung Teases Major Camera Upgrades for Galaxy S27 Series

    Samsung Teases Major Camera Upgrades for Galaxy S27 Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 series features only minor camera hardware upgrades, focusing more on software enhancements.
    2. Samsung executives have indicated that significant camera improvements are planned for future models, but specifics about the Galaxy S27 were not disclosed.
    3. The Galaxy S26 Ultra offers improved aperture sizes for its primary and telephoto cameras.
    4. Potential buyers might consider waiting for the Galaxy S27 for more substantial upgrades, although there is no guarantee of improved features.
    5. The Privacy Display feature in the Galaxy S26 series is highlighted as a notable enhancement.

    The Galaxy S26 series has just been revealed, and as per earlier leaks, it shows only slight upgrades in the camera hardware. Samsung has again prioritized software enhancements for its flagship lineup, which might deter some potential buyers of the Galaxy S26. However, it appears that the next version could introduce more substantial hardware improvements.

    Insights from Samsung Executives

    During a recent roundtable discussion, Android Authority inquired about the lack of significant camera upgrades each year. Executive Vice President Joshua Cho replied, stating, “We are always, constantly thinking about what would be the best combination at a given time. So, in the future there would also be new combinations of hardware and software, so I ask for your patience and attention.”

    Although Cho did not confirm or mention the Galaxy S27 series, he assured that Samsung is working on major enhancements for the camera. They are aiming for improvements beyond just software tweaks, focusing also on hardware advancements for their flagship models.

    Should You Wait for the Galaxy S27?

    So, if you’re considering upgrading to the Galaxy S26 series, should you hold off until next year? Maybe. However, there is no certainty that the Galaxy S27 will include the anticipated upgrades. With this in mind, the Galaxy S26 Ultra does offer improved aperture sizes for both the primary and telephoto cameras. Additionally, the Privacy Display feature appears to be quite solid and noteworthy.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26: Compact Android Flagship with 7-Year Updates

    Samsung Galaxy S26: Compact Android Flagship with 7-Year Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 features a new camera housing design and weighs 167 grams, slightly heavier than the S25.
    2. It is powered by the Exynos 2600 processor, with options for up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of non-expandable internal storage.
    3. The display is a 6.3-inch FHD+ dynamic AMOLED 2X with a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, and the battery capacity has increased to 4,300 mAh.
    4. The camera setup includes a 50 MP main camera, a 12 MP ultrawide, and a 10 MP telephoto lens, along with a 12 MP front camera, all running on Android 16 with One UI 8.5.
    5. Pre-orders for the Galaxy S26 start at €999, with open sales beginning on March 11th, available in four colors: sky blue, black, white, and cobalt violet.

    Samsung has just revealed the Galaxy S26, the direct upgrade to the S25, which is currently available on Amazon for $432.43. At the recent Galaxy Unpacked event, the company also announced the Galaxy S26+ and the Galaxy S26 Ultra. We’ve already discussed these models; you can find more details about them in our previous coverage.

    Changes in Design

    The Galaxy S26 shows some subtle design tweaks. Notably, it now features a camera housing, which was not present in the previous model. Additionally, this new phone weighs a bit more than the S25. To be exact, the S26 comes in at approximately 167 grams (0.36 lbs), compared to the S25’s weight of 162 grams (0.32 lbs). However, the thickness remains the same at 7.2 mm (0.28 inches).

    Performance and Display

    Inside, the device is driven by Samsung’s Exynos 2600 processor, which can be paired with as much as 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, though there is no option for expanding the storage. The display is a 6.3-inch FHD+ dynamic AMOLED 2X screen that supports a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate. Notably, the battery is larger than its predecessor, now at 4,300 mAh, up from 4,000 mAh. It also supports 25 W wired charging and 15 W wireless charging.

    Camera and Software Features

    The camera configuration remains the same, featuring a triple rear setup that includes a 50 MP main camera with OIS, a 12 MP ultrawide camera, and a 10 MP telephoto lens that offers 3x optical zoom. For selfies and video calls, there’s a 12 MP front camera. It operates on Android 16 with One UI 8.5 right out of the box. Additionally, Samsung has promised seven major OS updates (up to Android 23) and seven years of security updates for this compact flagship model.

    Customers eager to buy can pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S26 through Samsung’s official website for a price of €999. The open sale is set to start on March 11th. The S26 will be offered in four different color choices: sky blue, black, white, and cobalt violet.

     

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26: Compact Flagship with 35% Longer Battery Life

    Samsung Galaxy S26: Compact Flagship with 35% Longer Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 will be unveiled on February 25, taking over from the Galaxy S25.
    2. It features a 4,300 mAh battery and the same camera setup as the Galaxy S25, with a compact design of 149 x 71.7 x 7.2 mm.
    3. The Galaxy S26 will use an Exynos chipset in Europe and South Korea, while other regions will get the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
    4. The Exynos 2600 version is expected to provide 36% better battery life compared to the Galaxy S25.
    5. The Galaxy S26 will have a 7.5% larger battery but will only maintain 80% health after 1,200 charge cycles, compared to 2,000 cycles for the Galaxy S25.

    The Galaxy S26 is set to take over from the Galaxy S25 in just a few days (curr. $414 – refurbished on Amazon). Samsung’s upcoming compact flagship is expected to be unveiled on February 25 at its next Galaxy Unpacked event. A lot of information has already surfaced about the Galaxy S26, including a complete spec list.

    Overview of Features

    To summarize, the Galaxy S26 should be available in all markets with a 4,300 mAh battery and the same camera equipment as the Galaxy S25, all packed into a 167 g body that measures 149 x 71.7 x 7.2 mm. However, it is likely to follow the Galaxy S24 by using an Exynos chipset in Europe and South Korea, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 will be used in other regions.

    Battery Performance Insights

    According to leaked energy labels from the European Union (EU), the Exynos 2600 version will provide considerably better battery life compared to the Galaxy S25 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. The label suggests that the Galaxy S26 will last 36% longer than its predecessor.

    Trade-offs in Battery Health

    This enhancement can partly be attributed to the Galaxy S26 having a 7.5% bigger battery. Sadly, the EU report also mentions that this significant boost in battery life will come with a downside: diminished battery longevity. Supposedly, the Galaxy S26 will keep 80% of its battery health after 1,200 charge cycles, whereas the Galaxy S25 maintains 2,000 cycles.

    via Ytechb

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  • One UI 9 Update: Leaked Features for Android 17 Revealed

    One UI 9 Update: Leaked Features for Android 17 Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. One UI 8.5 is in beta for the Galaxy S25 series, with a stable version expected with the Galaxy S26 series.
    2. One UI 9 is rumored to include a new compact search bar in Samsung Internet for easier access to search and AI features.
    3. A notable feature called “Ask AI” will allow users to ask questions about the current webpage without copying text.
    4. Users can choose to keep conversations from “Ask AI” for up to 6 months or not save them after the session ends.
    5. There is no confirmed release date for One UI 9, but it may launch with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 in September.

    One UI 8.5 is now in beta and can be used on the Galaxy S25 series. The stable version will likely be released alongside the Galaxy S26 series, and then it will be made available for other compatible devices. Recently, a new leak has emerged regarding the upcoming major update: One UI 9.

    New Features in One UI 9

    Reports from SammyGuru indicate that leaked versions of One UI 9 suggest fresh features for Samsung Internet. The browser is rumored to introduce a new compact search bar that floats near the bottom of the screen. This will include functionalities such as search, AI access, recent tabs, and a menu.

    Exciting Innovations

    One interesting leaked feature is called “Ask AI.” This function lets users ask questions about the webpage they are currently viewing without needing to copy text into a chat window. The source claims that this feature analyzes the content of the page and the user’s browsing history to give tailored responses. Users will also have the choice to keep conversations for up to 6 months or not save them after the current session ends.

    At the moment, there is no fixed timeline for the release of One UI 9. It might come out alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (currently priced at $1,649 on Amazon) and the Z Flip 7, which are expected to launch in September. In other news, a regulatory agency has approved the Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A37, indicating that their release is likely close.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro Pricing Leaked

    Samsung Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro Pricing Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event is scheduled for February 25, 2026, focusing on the Galaxy S26 series.
    2. The Galaxy Book6 series pre-orders are expected to start in Europe alongside the new earbuds launch.
    3. The Galaxy Buds4 Pro are rumored to be priced at €249, while the Galaxy Buds4 may cost €179 in Europe.
    4. In the US, the Galaxy Buds4 are expected to retail for $179.99, and the Galaxy Buds4 Pro for $249.99.
    5. Information about pricing comes from credible sources like Roland Quandt, enhancing its reliability.

    Samsung is gearing up for its first Galaxy Unpacked event in 2026. This event, set for February 25, will take place just one week before Apple’s ‘Special Experience’. The main focus of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Unpacked will be to unveil the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    New Additions to the Galaxy Lineup

    In addition, pre-orders for the Galaxy Book6 series are expected to commence in Europe. There are also rumors that Samsung will launch the Galaxy Buds4 and Galaxy Buds4 Pro during this event. Evidence supporting these claims includes listings of the new earbuds on both Amazon and Euronics prior to their official release.

    Pricing Details

    While Amazon hasn’t disclosed any pricing details, Euronics has provided information that suggests the Galaxy Buds4 Pro will retail in the Eurozone for €249. The Galaxy Buds4 are anticipated to be priced at €179 in the same region.

    US Pricing Insights

    Furthermore, US pricing for both models has recently surfaced. Information shared by Roland Quandt on Bluesky and presented below suggests that the source of this screenshot is uncertain. However, Quandt is a reputable source, lending credence to the information. Thus, it seems likely that the Galaxy Buds4 will be available in the US for $179.99, while the Galaxy Buds4 Pro will be priced at $249.99.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26: Innovative Smart Camera Features Explained

    Samsung Galaxy S26: Innovative Smart Camera Features Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s focus on Galaxy AI introduces new smartphone features, but their real-life effectiveness, particularly in camera functions, is questioned.
    2. The Galaxy S26 series promises the brightest camera system yet, but hardware changes are minimal and unlikely to significantly improve photo and video quality.
    3. The front camera will see a 10 MP sensor upgrade, but users shouldn’t expect advanced features like those found in competitors’ devices.
    4. Samsung is enhancing photo and video editing capabilities, including features like transforming daylight photos to nighttime and merging multiple images.
    5. Core camera hardware remains largely unchanged, with older components still used in the latest models, despite the introduction of new software features.

    Since the Galaxy S24 was released two years ago, Samsung has been all about one main idea for its smartphones: Galaxy AI. The features powered by generative AI, represented by four stars, are supposed to showcase all kinds of new technology. However, how effective these features are in real life is up for debate. This is especially true for the camera, where some functions seem more like gimmicks—like drawing a spaceship in a photo that then magically becomes real, as seen in a recent promotional video for the new Galaxy S26 series.

    Camera System Updates

    In a recent teaser for the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung claims it will have “the brightest Galaxy camera system ever,” thanks to larger aperture values on two out of the five cameras. However, leaks suggest that the actual changes to the camera hardware will be minimal. It has been confirmed that two of the five camera sensors in the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be switched out, but this is unlikely to significantly enhance photo and video quality, as the new sensors do not improve pixel size or quantity.

    Front Camera Expectations

    As we move into 2026, a 10 MP sensor with an impressively small 1/3.94-inch size will still handle the 3x portrait mode on this flagship smartphone. The selfie camera is also set for a replacement, but users shouldn’t anticipate a “smarter” front camera like the Centerstage found in Apple’s iPhone 17, nor should they expect a 50 MP front camera or innovative 200 MP zoom cameras with adjustable focal lengths similar to those on the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

    Focus on Editing Features

    Samsung seems to be putting more emphasis on improved editing features for photos and videos taken with the camera app. The new Galaxy AI feature that allows users to turn a daylight picture into a nighttime one sounds really handy. Additionally, the ability to add missing details to an image, like parts of a bitten cupcake, could come in useful. Samsung also points out that users can merge multiple photos into one, likely just by tapping a button in the camera app. It’s unfortunate, though, that the hardware has not changed much over the years. The 10 MP 3x telephoto lens has been around since the Galaxy S21 Ultra, the 200 MP sensor has remained the same since the Galaxy S23 Ultra, and the 5,000 mAh battery of the same size has powered devices since the Galaxy S20 Ultra.

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