Samsung decides to keep the Galaxy S26 Plus model in the main line of flagships for 2026 after evaluating the commercial performance of the Edge variant in the previous generation.
The South Korean company reversed its initial plan to replace the Plus with the ultra-thin Edge, driven by lower-than-expected sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge, launched in May 2025.
The announcement maintains the classic structure with three models: Galaxy S26, S26 Plus and S26 Ultra, with presentation scheduled for February 2026 at the Unpacked event.
The change adjusts the production schedule, which faced delays with the late inclusion of Plus.
- Main reasons include difference in sales: S25 Plus registered 5.05 million units in three months, compared to 1.31 million for the Edge.
- Internal sources indicate resumption of Plus development in October 2025.
- Strategy prioritizes consolidated brand recognition in the traditional trifecta.
Reasons for rollback
Samsung halted development of the Galaxy S26 Plus initially to focus on the ultra-thin Edge.
South Korean media reports reveal that the commercial performance of the S25 Edge forced reconsideration.
The ultra-thin variant did not meet market targets, leading to the preservation of the model with a larger screen and enlarged battery.
Expected specifications
The Galaxy S26 Plus should equip Exynos 2600 chipset in 2nm process for energy efficiency.
Base and Plus models get Exynos globally, while the Ultra uses exclusive Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
Battery maintains a capacity of close to 5,000 mAh, with 45W fast charging.
Cameras include 50 MP main sensor, 12 MP ultrawide and 12 MP telephoto lens with optical zoom.
6.7-inch AMOLED screen offers 120 Hz refresh rate.
Approximate dimensions: 158.4 x 75.7 x 7.35 mm, slightly thicker than Edge.
Chipsets in series
Exynos 2600 marks full return in non-Ultra models after years of regional division.
Mass production started in September 2025 with gate-all-around technology.
Qualcomm confirms supply for 75% of devices, focusing on Ultra.
Design adjustments
Vertical camera module holds three lenses without the Edge’s horizontal bar.
CAD renders show a minimalist look with flash alongside the optical assembly.
Updates include improved NFC antenna for contactless payments.
One UI 8.5 builds on Android 16 with expanded AI capabilities.
Production schedule
Plus development restarted in October allows launch in February.
Edge postponed to separate event in Q2 2026.
Pre-sales begin immediately after Unpacked, with stocks prepared for global distribution.
Projected pricing
Galaxy S26 line should increase compared to the previous one due to reformulations.
Prices start at US$1,200 for the base model in international markets.
Adjustments reflect costs for new chipsets and optimized components.
Samsung reinforces support with seven years of software updates.
Partnerships with operators facilitate financing plans in Brazil.
The Galaxy S26 Plus integrates compatible Qi2 wireless charging.
Market reactions
Analysts see a return to the standard as a success for sales stability.
Competitors like Apple and Googleand maintain Plus variants in their lines.
Firmware leaks confirm updated battery capabilities and sensors.
The decision balances innovation with consumer demands for traditional options.
The Plus model preserves the larger screen demanded by multimedia users.
Integration of Perplexity AI can enhance searches in the native browser.
The Exynos 2600 promises 20% gains in graphics performance.
In-house testing resolves warming issues seen in past generations.
The line arrives with improved DeX mode for productivity.
Certifications with agencies such as Anatel prepare for arrival in Brazil in March.
