SEOUL, Feb 6, 2026, 18:36 (KST)
- Leaks indicate that the Galaxy S26 and S26+ may see price hikes in Europe, while the S26 Ultra’s base price could remain unchanged
- 9to5Google reports Samsung has scaled back its hardware upgrades, ditching larger batteries and Qi2 magnets from the release.
- A TechRadar poll found that 70% of participants were largely unexcited about the Galaxy S26 lineup
Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy S26 lineup may still face price increases in parts of Europe, despite the company scaling back some planned upgrades to control costs, according to leaks and reports. 9to5Google pointed out that Samsung adjusted its approach after Apple revealed the iPhone 17 without any price bump. Now, only a handful of rumored changes stand out — like more base storage, satellite texting features, and a slimmer Galaxy S26 Ultra. 1
Samsung’s annual flagship launch is looming, and it’s a critical time. Early adopters face a choice: pay the full price now or wait for potential discounts. If the base price rises without obvious hardware upgrades, many could either stick with the Galaxy S25 from last year or turn to rival premium phones instead.
Component costs continue to pose significant hurdles. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon told Reuters that a global memory shortage is forcing phone makers to cut back on inventory: “I’m very happy with the business – I just wish we had more memory.” Bob O’Donnell, chief analyst at TECHnalysis Research, cautioned the shortage might affect the industry for “the next several quarters.” 2
Leaked euro prices obtained by Tech Advisor suggest Samsung is hiking the starting price of the Galaxy S26 to 999 euros for the 256GB model, up from 959 euros on the Galaxy S25. The 512GB version would go for 1,199 euros. For the Galaxy S26+, expect 1,269 euros at 256GB and 1,469 euros at 512GB. The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s base 256GB model stays at 1,469 euros but jumps to 1,669 euros for 512GB and hits 1,969 euros for the 1TB variant. 3
French site Frandroid, citing Dealabs leaker Billbil-kun, published a similar price list for France. They pointed out that the 256GB model will replace the 128GB as the base option for the S26 and S26+. It looks like the 128GB version has been dropped. They also flagged a Galaxy Unpacked event scheduled for Feb. 25. 4
Qi2 — said “chee two” — updates the Qi wireless charging standard by adding a “Magnetic Power Profile.” This lets phones and chargers lock together with magnets for better alignment and improved charging efficiency, the Wireless Power Consortium says. Rumors are swirling about whether Samsung will build these magnets right into the S26 phones or keep using cases and accessories to handle the magnetic connection. 5
Forbes, citing leaks, says the Galaxy S26 Ultra could get a “sideways upgrade” with Qi2 wireless charging. This suggests Samsung may be tweaking charging tech rather than overhauling specs. So far, the company hasn’t shared any info on the S26’s specs or price. 6
Buyer enthusiasm is fading fast. A TechRadar poll published Friday found that 70% of people aren’t thrilled about the Galaxy S26 lineup. The article points to yet another round of minor upgrades and Samsung’s increased emphasis on software and its “Galaxy AI” features as the reasons. 7
Android Police cautioned that the endless leaks could sap the hype for Samsung’s official announcement, especially if it ends up happening in late February. Samsung still hasn’t locked down a specific date for the event. 8
Leaks often miss the target, and price lists can be placeholders, bundled deals, or influenced by regional taxes rather than the final cost. If Samsung delivers major hardware upgrades or ramps up trade-in offers at launch, things could change fast.
The tech press is currently skeptical about Samsung’s strategy: price hikes in Europe are stirring debate, with shaky reasons offered for the increases. Apple remains the clear leader in premium devices, meaning Samsung may need to deliver more than a thinner Ultra model and faster charging to win over customers.
