Samsung is gearing up for a big 2026 smartphone roadmap, led by the Samsung Galaxy S26 series and the next-generation foldables — Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8. While flagship smartphone prices across the industry are expected to rise due to a global RAM shortage and increasing component costs, a new report suggests Samsung may take a different approach this year.
According to fresh leaks from South Korea, Samsung is planning to freeze prices for its premium phones, including the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, to protect market share against Apple and fast-growing Chinese smartphone brands.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Price and Launch Date (Leaked)
A recent South Korean media report claims that Samsung has decided not to increase prices for the Galaxy S26 lineup, Galaxy Z Fold 8, and Galaxy Z Flip 8 — at least in key markets like the US. This move reportedly aims to balance profitability while maintaining strong sales volumes amid intensifying competition.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Launch Date
- Launch event: February 25, 2026
- Location: San Francisco, USA
- Models expected:
- Samsung Galaxy S26
- Samsung Galaxy S26+
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
The Galaxy S26 series is tipped to go on sale in March 2026, slightly later than earlier rumors that suggested a January launch with February availability.
Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 Launch Timeline
Samsung is expected to follow its traditional foldable launch cycle, with the:
- Galaxy Z Fold 8
- Galaxy Z Flip 8
set to debut in July 2026.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Key Specifications (Leaked)
Early hardware details have also started surfacing, offering a glimpse into what Samsung’s next flagship lineup might bring.
Galaxy S26 Battery Upgrade
- Samsung Galaxy S26 battery: 4,300mAh
- This would be an upgrade over the Galaxy S25’s 4,000mAh battery, signaling a focus on better endurance without a major design overhaul.
While several flagship phones launched in 2025 saw significant price hikes, Samsung was widely expected to follow the same trend due to higher memory and chipset costs. However, the latest leak suggests Samsung may absorb these costs to remain competitive.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Foldables to Retain Pricing
According to the report, Samsung plans to launch the Samsung Galaxy S26 series at the same price as the Galaxy S25 lineup, at least in the US market. The same strategy is reportedly being applied to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8, which could debut without any price increase over their predecessors.
That said, this price freeze may not apply globally. Markets such as South Korea and other regions could see slight price adjustments depending on taxes, currency fluctuations, and local costs.
Not All Samsung Phones Will Avoid Price Hikes
While Samsung appears committed to keeping its premium flagship prices steady, the report notes that select Galaxy A series models may see price increases in 2026. Rising component costs are still expected to impact Samsung’s mid-range portfolio more than its flagship lineup.
What This Means for Buyers
If the leak turns out to be accurate, Samsung’s pricing strategy could give the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 8 a strong edge in 2026, especially as competitors continue raising prices. With upgraded batteries, lighter foldable designs, and stable pricing, Samsung could attract users looking to upgrade without stretching their budget further.
As of now, Samsung has not officially confirmed any launch dates, specifications, or pricing details. However, with February and July launch windows repeatedly mentioned by South Korean media, official teasers may not be far away.