Samsung pulled back the curtain on its 2026 flagship lineup at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, hosted at the Palace of Fine Arts.
From three new smartphones to refreshed earbuds and upgraded AI features, the event delivered more updates than many expected.
Here’s a complete breakdown of everything Samsung announced.
Samsung introduced three new flagship smartphones: the Samsung Galaxy S26, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.
All three models feature a more rounded and cohesive design this year. The Ultra, in particular, now aligns visually with the rest of the lineup, moving away from its previously sharper and more distinct look.
Under the hood, the entire S26 series runs on an overclocked version of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, branded “For Galaxy.”
No more 128GB base model
Samsung has removed the 128GB entry-level storage option across the lineup.
Every Galaxy S26 model now starts at 256GB as standard. While the storage boost has been widely welcomed, prices have increased this year, with both the S26 and S26 Plus rising by $100 compared to the previous generation.
S26 Ultra introduces privacy display
The standout feature of the S26 Ultra is its new Privacy Display technology.
The screen darkens when viewed from side angles and automatically blurs sensitive notifications if someone nearby appears to be looking. The feature is designed to enhance on-the-go privacy and could influence future flagship designs across the industry.
The Ultra also receives camera refinements.
It retains a 200MP main sensor and 5x telephoto lens but now features wider apertures for improved light capture. However, the front-facing selfie camera remains unchanged at 12MP.
Third-generation Galaxy AI features
Samsung expanded its Galaxy AI toolkit during Unpacked 2026.
Now brief and now nudge
“Now Brief” delivers a personalized morning summary, including weather, calendar updates and reminders before the phone is fully unlocked.
“Now Nudge” suggests relevant actions based on on-screen content. For example, if a message requests photos, it provides quick access to share them instantly.
Circle to Search now identifies multiple objects at once, such as scanning an entire outfit instead of a single item.
Gemini-powered Scam Detection can silently filter and handle spam calls, reducing interruptions without user intervention.
Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro unveiled
Samsung also launched two new wireless earbuds: the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.
Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Priced at $249.99, the Pro model features:
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Canal-fit design with silicone tips
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Wider woofer and separate tweeter
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Dual-amplifier architecture
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Adaptive ANC 2.0 with real-time adjustment
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Hands-free AI wake for Gemini and Bixby
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24-bit/96kHz hi-fi playback
The Buds 4 Pro are available in Black, White, and Pink Gold (exclusive to Samsung’s website).
Galaxy Buds 4
The standard Buds 4 cost $179.99 and use an open-fit design without ear tips.
They include three microphones, Bluetooth 6.1, Auracast support and up to 30 hours of total battery life. Color options include Black and White.
Pricing and availability
All Galaxy S26 models and the Buds 4 series are available for pre-order now.
Galaxy S26 Pricing
| Model | 256GB | 512GB | 1TB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S26 | $899.99 | $1,099.99 | – |
| Galaxy S26 Plus | $1,099.99 | $1,299.99 | – |
| Galaxy S26 Ultra | $1,299.99 | $1,499.99 | $1,799.99 |
Final Takeaway
Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event focused on refinement rather than reinvention.
With a unified design, increased base storage, new privacy-focused display tech, upgraded AI tools and refreshed earbuds, the Galaxy S26 lineup strengthens Samsung’s flagship ecosystem. Whether the higher prices justify the upgrades will likely depend on real-world performance and user priorities.







