Samsung increased the prices of the Galaxy S26 series in the Korean market, interrupting a three-year streak without adjustments to flagships. The adjustment reflects the increase in the costs of components such as DRAM and NAND flash, used in device memories.
The Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra models arrive with 256 GB base storage and 12 GB of RAM. The company maintains a double storage promotion for higher versions in the country.
According to a report from ETNews, the standard 256GB model will cost 1,254,000 won. Esse value represents an increase of around 99,000 won compared to the previous generation.
New values practiced in Coreia of Sul
The Galaxy S26 series features varied readjustments in storage options. Korean consumers face an average increase of 9% to 14% in launch prices.
- Galaxy S26 (256GB): 1,254,000 won
- Galaxy S26 (512GB): 1,460,000 won
- Galaxy S26+ (256GB): 1,452,000 won
- Galaxy S26+ (512GB): 1,660,000 won
- Galaxy S26 Ultra (256GB): 1,797,000 won
- Galaxy S26 Ultra (512GB): 2,000,000 won
These numbers place the Ultra model above the 2 million won mark for the top version. The double storage promotion remains active for all variants.
Reasons for price adjustment
The increase is directly due to the rise in prices for DRAM and NAND flash memories on the global market. Fabricantes face shortages and high demand for components used in smartphones and AI devices.
Dr. TM Roh, president of the MX division of Ele stated that the impact affects all of the company’s products in the current period.
Reports indicate that NAND contractual prices rose up to 100% in the first quarter of 2026. The DRAM segment recorded an increase of more than 70% in the same interval.
Memory and Storage Settings
The Galaxy S26 line adopts 256 GB as a minimum capacity in all models. Essa change raises the previous standard of 128 GB in base versions of past generations.
All devices come with 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM as standard configuration. The Ultra variant offers a 16GB option on higher models.
The promotion allows you to purchase the 512 GB version by paying the price of 256 GB. No Ultra, consumer obtains 1 TB when paying the amount corresponding to 512 GB.
Expected specifications of the series
Rumors point to a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor in most markets. Algumas regions receive Exynos 2600 chip developed in-house by Samsung.
AMOLED displays maintain refresh rates of 120Hz across all sizes. The Ultra model features a 6.9-inch display with high resolution.
50 MP main cameras lead the optical set. Sensores 12 MP ultrawide complement the system in standard and Plus variants.
Batteries remain at 4,900 mAh in the S26+ and 5,000 mAh in the Ultra. The base model maintains similar capacity to the previous generation.
Launch strategy and promotions
Samsung plans a launch event in February or March 2026. The Korean market receives units first, followed by global expansions.
Maintaining the double storage promotion mitigates part of the impact of the adjustment. Consumidores beneficiaries pay a lower amount for double the capacity.
This strategy aims to preserve competitiveness in the premium segment. The company seeks to balance margins with sales volume in the country of origin.
Impact of component costs
The memory sector is facing pressure from demand for servers and artificial intelligence devices. Fabricantes like Samsung adjust inventories to meet industrial priorities.
NAND flash prices doubled in some contracts in early 2026. The phenomenon affects the entire premium smartphone production chain.
Analysts predict gradual stabilization throughout the year. However, initial adjustments already incorporate the current supply scenario.
Comparison with previous generations
Samsung maintained stable prices on the S23, S24 and S25 lines in the Korean market. Essa policy contributed to share gains in the flagship segment.
The current adjustment marks the first significant change since 2023. Previous Modelos preserved similar ranges of launch values.
The inclusion of more RAM and storage justifies part of the difference. Consumidores receive superior configurations compared to 2025 devices.
Details of variants Plus and Ultra
The Galaxy S26+ offers an intermediate screen with an enlarged battery. The model balances portability and autonomy for demanding users.
Version Ultra focuses on advances in photography and performance. Zoom enhanced optical highlights multi-camera array.
Both maintain premium construction with titanium and IP68 protection. Atualizações of software arrive for up to seven years from launch.
Global market outlook
There is still no confirmation of adjustments in other countries. Samsung evaluates regional strategies according to local costs and competition.
Markets like Europa and Estados Unidos follow Korean trends. Similar Ajustes may occur in international releases.
The company prioritizes premium positioning of the Galaxy S line. Inovações in hardware justifies values practiced in the segment.
