As 2026 draws near, tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the launch of Samsung’s next flagship, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. This next-generation device promises groundbreaking advancements in both design and performance. While the official unveiling is still a few months away, leaked specs and rumors paint a vivid picture of what Samsung’s future flagship will offer. Here’s everything we know so far about the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra — from its expected release date to its anticipated features, prices, and more.
📅 Release Date: When Can You Get Your Hands on It?
Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, where the company typically announces its latest flagship devices, is expected to take place in late January 2026. Following the announcement, the S26 series will be available for purchase globally by early to mid-February 2026.
For Kenya, you can expect the new devices to hit local stores a few weeks after the global launch, likely by late February or early March 2026.
✨ Key Features and Specifications: What to Expect
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is poised to deliver top-tier features and performance upgrades. Here’s a detailed look at the specifications of both the S26 (Standard) and S26 Ultra models:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S26 (Standard) | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2″ Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X (120Hz) | 6.9″ Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X (144Hz) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite / Exynos 2600 | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (Global) |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB / 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 50MP Triple Setup | 200MP Quad Setup (Upgraded Zoom) |
| Battery | 4,000mAh | 5,000mAh – 5,500mAh |
| Charging | 25W Wired | 45W – 60W Wired (Rumored) |
| Software | Android 16, One UI 8 | Android 16, One UI 8 |
Notable Tech Upgrades
- Galaxy AI 2.0: The integration of Galaxy AI 2.0 will allow users to leverage enhanced on-device AI for features like real-time video translation, “Circle to Search” upgrades, and advanced generative photo editing. Expect your photos and videos to be smarter and more intuitive than ever before.
- Snapdragon 8 Elite: The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset is expected to offer significant performance boosts in both gaming and power efficiency, making the S26 Ultra a powerhouse for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Wi-Fi 7 & Satellite Connectivity: The S26 Ultra is likely to be equipped with Wi-Fi 7, allowing for faster, more reliable internet connections. Plus, satellite connectivity could offer emergency messaging options, perfect for when you’re out of signal range.
👍 Pros and Cons of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
As with any flagship, there are bound to be both standout features and a few drawbacks. Here’s what we expect:
Pros
- Long Software Support: Samsung has been leading the industry in providing long-term software support, and with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, you can expect up to 7 years of Android and security updates.
- Brilliant Display: Samsung is known for its stunning displays, and the 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X on the Ultra version will likely have a 144Hz refresh rate and peak brightness that could exceed 2,600 nits, making it perfect for outdoor use.
- Compact Power: While the base Galaxy S26 retains a relatively compact 6.2-inch screen, it packs flagship-level power, making it a great option for those who prefer a smaller phone without sacrificing performance.
- Advanced AI Features: With deep integration of Google Gemini and enhanced productivity features, this device will offer exceptional multitasking and AI-driven features to help you get more done.
Cons
- Slow Charging: Although the S26 Ultra is expected to have fast 45W-60W charging (rumored), the base model might still be limited to 25W charging, which feels slow compared to some competitors offering 65W or 120W charging.
- Price Hikes: As is the case with many flagship devices, rising component costs — particularly for the new 3nm chips — might result in higher launch prices compared to previous models.
- Familiar Design: While leaks suggest the S26’s design will be more of an evolution than a complete overhaul, this might disappoint users hoping for a fresh new look.
🇰🇪 Expected Prices in Kenya
While prices may fluctuate based on the KES exchange rate at the time of launch, here’s an estimation of what you can expect to pay for the Galaxy S26 series in Kenya:
- Samsung Galaxy S26 (Base): KSh 110,000 – KSh 125,000
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus: KSh 135,000 – KSh 150,000
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: KSh 185,000 – KSh 210,000
🛒 Where to Buy in Kenya
Once launched, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series will be available from various reputable sellers. Here are some of the top options:
- Samsung Brand Stores: These are located at Garden City, Village Market, Westgate, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Safaricom Shops: These will offer official warranties and may bundle data plans with your purchase.
- Online Retailers: Look out for early-bird discounts on platforms like Jumia Kenya and Kilimall.
- Specialized Tech Stores:
- PhonePlace Kenya (Bazaar Plaza, Nairobi)
- Gadgets Leo
- iTey Store
- Silkroom Electronics
Pro Tip: If you’re eager to get your hands on the S26 Ultra, keep an eye out for Pre-order campaigns in February. Samsung Kenya usually offers exclusive gifts, like Galaxy Buds or Smart Tags, for early buyers.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra promises to be one of the most exciting smartphones of 2026. With a powerful combination of AI integration, blazing-fast performance, and stunning design, it is shaping up to be a flagship worth waiting for. While the price might be on the higher end, the device’s long-term value, especially in terms of software support, makes it a solid investment for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line Android experience. Keep an eye on the official release, and start saving up if you want to be among the first to own this next-gen smartphone.