Samsung appears to be taking its time with the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, reportedly eyeing a late February 2026 launch instead of its usual early-year schedule.
According to a Korean report, the company plans to host its next Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, marking a strategic shift tied closely to its AI ambitions.
In recent years, Samsung has consistently unveiled its Galaxy S lineup in late January, followed by retail availability in early February. However, this pattern might change in 2026.
South Korean outlet Money Today reports that Samsung will host its Galaxy S26 Unpacked event on February 25 — several weeks later than usual. The venue will also shift from San Jose to San Francisco, signaling the tech giant’s renewed focus on positioning its flagship phones within the global AI conversation.
AI innovation driving venue change
According to the report, an unnamed Samsung official called San Francisco “the center of AI technology,” hinting that the company wants to align its product strategy more closely with AI advancements.
Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite, introduced with the Galaxy S24 lineup, was expected to redefine smartphone intelligence. Yet, despite its potential, many users and analysts still view it as lagging behind Google’s Gemini. The upcoming event could therefore mark Samsung’s attempt to showcase stronger AI integration and regain momentum in the rapidly evolving smart device race.
What to expect from Galaxy S26 lineup
While Samsung has not officially confirmed the devices, leaks suggest that the Galaxy S26 series will include the familiar trio — the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. The Ultra is once again expected to feature the S Pen and enhanced camera and performance capabilities.
Interestingly, the report also mentions earlier expectations of a Galaxy S26 Pro and an ultra-slim S26 Edge model. However, these models are now rumored to be shelved — or possibly postponed — until 2026 or later.
Samsung’s slimmer “Edge” design might not debut alongside the main S26 series. Insiders suggest that if the Edge model returns, it will arrive as a follow-up release later in the year or even the next cycle, similar to what happened with the S25 Edge.
While fans of the sleek design may be disappointed, Samsung seems more focused on refining its AI ecosystem and overall user experience this time around, rather than expanding its lineup with new form factors.
