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Today — 19 February 2026Sammy Fans

Samsung Galaxy A37 and A57 listed on IMDA, official launch likely soon

19 February 2026 at 01:40

Samsung is getting ready to launch two new phones in its Galaxy A series. The phones, Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57, have appeared on Singapore’s IMDA website, which means they are almost ready for release.

The Galaxy A37 has the model number A376B/DS. This shows that it is a global version and can use two SIM cards at the same time. The Galaxy A57 has been spotted with the model number SM-A576B/DS, which is also a global dual-SIM version. While the IMDA listing does not show all the specifications, it confirms that these phones are coming soon.

The launch is expected to happen in March or early April. These listings show that Samsung is completing all the approvals needed to sell the phones worldwide.

Samsung Galaxy A56 A36

Source – Samsung

Earlier leaks reveal that the Galaxy A37 will use the Exynos 1480 processor and is expected to run One UI 8.5. The cameras may include a 50MP main camera with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens. The battery is likely 5,000mAh with 45W fast charging, which is quite good for a mid-range phone.

The Galaxy A57 may have a 6.6-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It will probably run on the Exynos 1680 processor and have the same 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. Its camera setup could include a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 5MP macro lens, and a 12MP front camera for selfies.

Both phones are expected to be strong mid-range devices with modern design, good cameras, long battery life, and software updates for many years. These A-series devices are a good choice for users who want a reliable Samsung phone without paying for a flagship.

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Samsung’s HBM4 price increase hints at strong Q1 profit outlook

19 February 2026 at 00:52

Samsung is expecting very high profits in the first quarter of 2026. The main reason is the rising price of memory chips and strong demand for its new, fast memory – HBM4.

According to information via Chosun, Samsung is selling HBM4 at around $700 per unit, which is 20 to 30% higher than the older HBM3E model. The company started mass production of HBM4 on February 12. SK Hynix, another major Korean memory company, will also start making HBM4 soon and is expected to sell it at similar prices.

Last year, SK Hynix supplied HBM4 to NVIDIA at about $500 per unit, so prices have risen quickly in just six months. Samsung’s profits are not only from HBM4 but also from higher prices in general DRAM and NAND flash memory. Samsung is carefully managing how much HBM4 it produces, avoiding overproduction to keep profits high.

Samsung HBM4 AI Memory Chip

Source – Samsung Newsroom

With this strategy, Samsung’s operating profit for the first quarter could reach 32 trillion Korean won, breaking past records. In the fourth quarter of 2025, Samsung earned 20 trillion won. Global investment bank Morgan Stanley predicts Samsung could make 245.7 trillion won in operating profit for the whole year, a huge increase from last year.

Rising prices for HBM, DRAM, and NAND flash memory mean Samsung is likely to continue growing strongly. Its new HBM4 technology and smart production plans put it in a strong position in the global memory market.

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Pixel 10a launched with familiar specs to compete with Galaxy S25 FE

18 February 2026 at 23:35

Google has launched its latest midrange phone, the Pixel 10a. It looks very similar to last year’s Pixel 9a, with most of the specs staying the same. Only a few small upgrades have been added.

Pixel 10a has a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 60–120Hz refresh rate. The screen is now brighter, reaching up to 3000 nits.  The phone still runs on the Google Tensor G4 chip with 8GB RAM. 

Also, the camera setup is similar as it offers 48MP main camera, 13MP ultrawide, and 13MP front camera. It comes with storage options of 128GB and 256GB.

Pixel 10a’s 5100mAh battery lasts over 30 hours normally, or up to 120 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode. Other features include IP68 water resistance, Gorilla Glass 7i, and Android 16 with 7 years of updates.

Google Pixel 10a

Image via Google

The Pixel 10a faces competition from the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE. Samsung’s phone has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, and several AI features. These make the Galaxy S25 FE feel more premium, especially for users who want a bigger screen and better camera performance.

The price of the Pixel 10a has not changed from last year. It is $499 for the 128GB model and $599 for the 256GB model. Some users may feel paying full price for small upgrades is not very exciting. On the other side, you can grab the Galaxy S25 FE at $449 on Amazon.

Pixel 10a is a reliable phone with minor improvements and long-term software support. However, if you want a larger display or more advanced cameras, the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE may be a better choice for midrange buyers.

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Why Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Smart Privacy Display could change how you use your phone in public

18 February 2026 at 22:44

While everyone is busy obsessing over the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra’s new camera sensors, there is one hardware change that I think is actually going to change how we use our phones in public. It’s called the Smart Privacy Display, and for anyone who spends their morning on a crowded train, it’s a total game-changer.

We have all been there. You are sitting in a cafe or stuck in an elevator, and you can practically feel the person next to you reading your private messages or looking at your bank balance. Usually, the only fix is to stick a cheap, plastic privacy film over your screen. But let’s be honest, those things are terrible. They dim your screen, ruin your viewing angles even when you are alone, and make a $1,300 premium phone look like a budget device from 2010.

Samsung’s approach is technically different because it’s built directly into the display hardware through a tech it is calling Flex Magic Pixel.

How it actually work? Unlike a third-party protector, this “smart” display can actually control how light leaves each pixel. If you are looking at the screen head-on, it looks perfect, no loss in color, brightness, or sharpness. But the moment someone tries to peek from an angle, the pixels shift the light, making the screen look totally black or hidden to them.

The most impressive part is that you can customize everything in this feature. You can set specific rules in the One UI settings to protect only the sensitive stuff. Or you only want it to trigger when a private notification pops up, or when you are typing in a one-time password (OTP).

Samsung even teased this recently with an official video of a girl reading a “spicy” book on the subway, she tapped a toggle called Zero-Peeking Privacy, and her nosy neighbor was totally blocked out.

In addition to these features, there’s even an Auto Privacy mode that uses your location to realize you are in a public spot, like a bus or a busy airport, and it automatically activates. Thanks to its integration into the glass, it doesn’t mess with your 2600-nit peak brightness like those third-party protectors do.

Samsung Privacy Display feature

Final Words:

I am currently using the S25 Ultra as my primary phone. I am doing everything on my phone, including banking, messages, emails, and even reading books.

When you are in a public place like a small restaurant, people peeking at the screen is a real issue. This privacy feature gives real peace of mind without extra accessories. This makes me happy because it’s a new idea and Samsung is the one showing everyone how to do it.

Rumor has it that even Apple is looking at similar tech for its future devices. If big companies are already getting in line, that shows how game-changing it could be.

The S26 Ultra will obviously have the usual speed and camera boosts, but for those of us who travel or just value our privacy, this privacy screen tech is probably the most practical reason to upgrade this year.

What do you think? Would the Smart Privacy Display make you feel more comfortable using your phone anywhere? Or is it a nice extra but not a must-have? Drop your thoughts on our X handle @thesammyfans, love to hear from the Samsung community! Stay tuned for the full reveal at Galaxy Unpacked soon. The future of phone privacy looks brighter (and more private) than ever. Sorry Apple!

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Yesterday — 18 February 2026Sammy Fans

Get Ready: Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold available again in the US on February 20

18 February 2026 at 22:05

Samsung is bringing back the Galaxy Z TriFold in the US. This phone is very popular because it folds three times and turns into a small tablet. When it first launched, it sold out in less than 20 minutes. Many people were not able to buy it. Now, Samsung is giving customers another chance.

The Galaxy Z TriFold will be available again on Friday, February 20, at 10 am ET (7 am PT). It will be sold on Samsung’s official website. If you want to buy it, you should be ready before the sale starts.

Since it sold out very fast last time, it may sell out quickly again. Reports say Samsung is making fewer than 100,000 units, so the supply is limited.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold

Image – Samsung Newsroom

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold is different from normal smartphones. It has a 6.5-inch screen on the outside. When you unfold it completely, it becomes a large 10-inch tablet. This big screen is great for watching movies, reading, browsing the internet, or working. The phone runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor. 

The Galaxy Z TriFold starts at $2,899, which makes it very expensive. It is made for people who want both a phone and a tablet in one device.  The phone is unique and special, so it may sell out again very quickly. Stay tuned for more information.

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Gemini now lets you generate songs from text and images

18 February 2026 at 20:53

Google’s Gemini has become even more powerful. Until now, it could generate text, images, videos, and code. With the latest update, Gemini can now create full songs, including lyrics and music, and even design album art. All it takes is a text or image prompt, and Gemini turns it into a complete track.

This new feature is powered by Google DeepMind’s Lyria 3, a text-to-audio AI model. Earlier versions of Lyria could only make short instrumental clips or experimental music.

Now, Gemini can create 30-second songs that sound like real music, with layered instruments and melodies. It can also generate lyrics, so each track is a complete musical piece.

Samsung Google Gemini Side Button

Source – Samsung

Also, Google has made sure that copyright issues are avoided. Each AI-generated track comes with a hidden SynthID to show it was created by AI. The songs are checked against existing music to prevent copying. The company also says that it trained Gemini without copying artists’ work.

The new music feature is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish. It works for both free and paid Gemini users, although available credits depend on the subscription. The feature is also coming to Dream Track for YouTube Shorts to make it easier for creators to make music quickly.

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Google Quick Share now works with Apple’s AirDrop on Pixel phones, full rollout over the next few days

18 February 2026 at 20:44

I am so over being the only Android guy in the room. Whenever my friends want to share photos from a trip, I usually end up getting some blurry, compressed version over WhatsApp or a Google Drive link that nobody ever wants. It’s basically been a decade of feeling like a second-class tech citizen.

But in the February 2026 update, Google changed everything for the Pixel 9 series users. Google has now enabled the Quick Share share feature to transfer photos using AirDrop on iPhone.

To use this feature, just hit the share button, tap on Quick Share, and your iPhone will appear right away. On iPhone screen, it looked just like a normal AirDrop, and just tap “Accept”. Five seconds later, you will have the full 4K video. No apps, no links, no drama.

Is there a catch? A small one. You still have to tell the iPhone user to turn on “Everyone for 10 minutes” because Apple is still being Apple about security. Also, if you are using a Pixel 9a, you are out of luck for now since this update is only for the main Pixel 9 series.

Honestly, it is not 100% perfect, and you have to stay pretty close for the Bluetooth to stay connected. But it’s the biggest win I have had with this phone in a long time. If you have a Pixel 9, go tap on that update button in your settings right now. It’s a total game changer.

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Galaxy S26 series will launch with 7 design changes

18 February 2026 at 20:19

Samsung Galaxy S26 series is approaching, and one of its key attractions will be the optimized design. The phone lineup will consist of three models: Standard, Plus, and Ultra. Whilethe difference may not be significant compared to the previous generation, consumers will be able to spot the difference between the two generations.

If you are wondering what’s unique is heading our way this year, then you are still in the right place. Here, I will walk you through the top design changes of the Galaxy S26 series.

Dimensions

Standard

  • Galaxy S26 – 149.6mm x 71.7mm x 7.2mm and 167 grams weight
  • Galaxy S25 – 146.9mm x 70.5mm x 7.2mm and 162 grams weight

Plus

  • Galaxy S26 Plus – 158.4mm x 75.8mm x 7.3mm and 190 grams weight
  • Galaxy S25 Plus – 158.4mm x 75.8mm x 7.3mm and 190 grams weight

Ultra

  • Galaxy S26 Ultra – 163.6mm x 78.1mm x 7.9mm and 214 grams weight
  • Galaxy S25 Ultra – 162.8mm x 77.6mm x 8.2mm and 218 grams weight

The standard model is bigger than its predecessor, due to the improvement in screen size. The display is expected to be 6.3 inches over 6.2 inches in the S25, adding some weight.

The Plus model is the same as the last generation, but the upcoming Ultra model will have more height and width, while offering a slightly slim and lightweight design.

Radius

The S26 Ultra model will have more rounded corners than the previous model. Last year, Samsung deleted those pointy corners and brought a modern look to the top-end flagship. However, the company has decided to increase the radius.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Display

Display

The screen will remain flat on these three models, but the Ultra will offer slimmer bezels on all sides. It’s observed in press render leaks that the display will have a slightly larger hole-punch.

Sides

The sides have power and volume adjustment keys. The bottom includes a charging port, speakers, anda  SIM card tray. Other sides includes atennas. The Ultra model will have an S-Pen slot.

Frame

One of the biggest changes in this Galaxy S26 series design could be the frame material. This year, all three phones may appear with an aluminium frame, including the S26 Ultra. This high-end phone has been using Titanium for the past two years.

Camera

Samsung has adopted a new look for the rear camera. While retaining the arrangement, the phones will now use a new camera bump that pretty much resembles the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Overall, the design looks better than the S25 Ultra, especially those crowns.

S-Pen

Since the Ultra is adopting larger corner curves, the S-Pen will also tweak its clicker head for a seamless design. Check the image below to understand the difference.

Galaxy s26 Ultra and S25 Ultra S Pen stylus

Conclusion

These are the major design changes in the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, unveiling at the Unpacked event. Besides, Samsung also has new technological breakthroughs that will also be unpacked at the event.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra clone up for purchase at merely $72

18 February 2026 at 19:09

Samsung is going to launch its new Galaxy S26 series next week. The series includes three models – Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Even before the official launch, a cheap clone of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has already appeared online.

A video on Instagram shows the clone Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, which is being sold for only around $72. The video highlights the phone’s design, including the camera island and the wallpaper, making it look very similar to the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Despite its premium look, the clone is very different inside. It comes with only 3GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, although it does support 5G connectivity. Its performance and features are far below the real Galaxy S26 Ultra, which makes it clear that it is only a lookalike.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra clone phone leak

Image via Instagram

People may easily be able to recognize the clone because premium phones feel different and have better build quality, smoother performance, and additional features. The clone may attract attention because of its design, but it cannot match the experience of a genuine flagship device.

This shows that even before the launch, cheap copies of upcoming phones can appear online. While they may seem tempting because of the low price and premium look, the real innovation and performance will only be found in Samsung’s official devices.

Samsung fans will have to wait until the Galaxy Unpacked event on 25 February 2026 to see the real Galaxy S26 series. Users can register for the event to get special benefits. Stay tuned for more updates about the Galaxy S26 series.

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Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold inner screen failures surface online

18 February 2026 at 17:59

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold takes the big screen idea further with its new tri-fold design. However, some early users are now reporting problems with the inner folding display. These early complaints have started to raise questions about reliability.

In the first case, a user said the inner screen suddenly turned black after about six weeks of use. The display stopped responding completely. Restarting the phone helped at first, but the problem came back the next day. After that, even a reboot did not fix the screen.

In the second case, another user said the screen failed after just five days. It first started showing random touches without being touched. By the next morning, the screen had turned fully white. It did not respond to any touch at all.

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold issue Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold issue

Both users said they were very careful with their phones. They claimed the devices were never dropped or damaged. One user also heard a popping sound when folding the phone. They even noticed what looked like a small air bubble under the display.

Right now, it is not clear what caused the problem. It could be a faulty unit. It could also be linked to the new tri-fold design. Foldable phones have more moving parts, which makes them more complex.

Screen issues can happen with any smartphone. However, foldable devices may face extra stress because they bend. Samsung has not yet shared an official response. For now, it is unclear if this is a small issue or something bigger. Stay tuned for more information.

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Samsung introduces Secure Chat feature, just not for Galaxy users

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 15:17

Samsung builds the most secure Android phones on the planet, yet its newest “Secure Chat” feature is not coming to Galaxy devices. It is for employees only.

Trusted news outlet Korea Herald reports that Samsung Electronics and other major Samsung Group affiliates have quietly rolled out a Secure Chat mode inside their in-house messaging platform to stop leaks.

Samsung Secure Chat mode

The feature arrives after multiple internal meeting materials, including executive-level instructions, surfaced on anonymous platforms like Blind almost in real time.

Once a chat room is marked Secure Chat, copy and paste is blocked. Message forwarding is disabled. Screenshots cannot be taken. Chat records cannot be saved to a personal PC.

Every protected room is clearly labeled, leaving no ambiguity about the restrictions in place. The controls operate at the system level, which means employees cannot bypass them with casual workarounds.

Samsung’s internal notice frames it as a dual mission: protect sensitive business information and shield employee privacy. The logic is simple: if redistribution is technically impossible, leaks become exponentially harder.

The irony will not be lost on Galaxy fans. Samsung Knox remains one of the strongest mobile security platforms in the consumer market, yet this highly restrictive chat protection is walled off from the public.

It turns out the underlying technology could easily align with One UI’s security stack. A future Galaxy S-series update could, in theory, introduce a consumer-facing Secure Chat toggle inside Samsung Messages or a partner app.

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Google Play system update rolling out to Samsung phones

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 14:28

Samsung Galaxy phones are finally getting a new Google Play system update. Following the release of the One UI 8 update, Galaxy devices were stuck on older versions.

Samsung phones running One UI 8 have started receiving a new Google Play system update. The latest release installs the January 2026 version, which elevates Google Play and several core Android functions and security.

On the Google Play services side, three updates rolled out across the month.

The biggest quality-of-life addition is the ability to view transactions from other devices and online purchases made with virtual card numbers, right from Google Wallet. Wallet also gained the ability to create digital IDs on demand.

For anyone under 18, there’s now support for signing into Android Automotive devices under certain conditions, something that previously wasn’t possible at all.

Security got a notable bump too, with NFC security keys that support the CTAP2 standard now usable for account authentication across phones, tablets, TVs, cars, PCs, and Wear OS.

Your device can now back up logs in a way that’s tamper-resistant and limits who can access them. Data transfers between devices also got a compatibility improvement, and the supervision opt-out process was updated.

The Play Store saw a few smaller but noticeable tweaks.

Search results now collapse subtasks under the “Organized by AI” section. Game achievements can update in real time within the store. Besides, prize selection for certain promotions now lets you pick from multiple options.

Android System Intelligence added new language support for Message Armour. Android WebView shipped two updates (versions 144 and 145), both bringing the usual security patches, bug fixes, and new tools for developers building apps.

Samsung Galaxy Google Play System Update

Here’s everything new in GPSY January 2026:

Android WebView v145 (2026-01-28)

  • Improvements to security and privacy and updates for bug fixes.
  • New developer features for Google & 3rd party app developers to support functionality related to displaying web content in their apps.

Important: Some features may be experimental and available to certain users.

Google Play services v26.03 (2026-01-26)

Account Management

  • [Wear] New developer features for Google and third party app developers to support Account Management related processes in their apps.
  • [Auto] With this update, Google Accounts for users under 18 that were unable to sign in to Automotive devices before can now sign in when specific conditions are met.

Security & Privacy

  • [Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] This update allows account authentication through NFC security keys that support CTAP2.

Utilities

  • [Phone] You’ll get an improved compatibility when you move your data across devices.
    Wallet
  • [Phone] You can now create digital IDs when needed.
  • [Phone] Bug fixes for Wallet related services.

Google Play Store v49.9 (2026-01-26)

  • [Phone] This update collapses subtasks in Organized by AI section in search results.

Android System Intelligence B.21 (2026-01-22)

  • [Phone] Message Armour new languages support; Maintenance changes.

Private Compute Services B.21 (2026-01-19)

  • [Phone] Maintenance changes.

Google Play services v26.02 (2026-01-19)

Account Management

  • [Phone] This feature updates the opt-out of supervision process and may require parental approval.

Developer Services

  • [Phone] New developer features for Google and third party app developers to support Location & Context related processes in their apps.

Device Connectivity

  • [Wear] This update adjusts text and icons in backup settings on Wear OS devices.

Security & Privacy

  • [Phone] With this new feature, your device securely backs up logs with privacy protection and tamper resistance, and limits access to the user.

System Management

  • [Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] Bug fixes for System Management & Diagnostics related services.

Google Play Store v49.8 (2026-01-19)

  • [Phone] Adds support for real-time updates of unlocked game achievements in the Play Store.

Google Play services v26.01 (2026-01-12)

Developer Services

  • [Phone] New developer features for Google and third party app developers to support Location & Context related processes in their apps.

System Management

  • [Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] Updates to system management services that improve Stability.
    Wallet
  • [Phone, Wear] You can now view transactions from other devices and online purchases that use virtual card numbers.

Google Play Store v49.7 (2026-01-12)

  • [Phone] Allow users to select from multiple prizes instead of receiving a single one.

Android WebView v144 (2026-01-07)

  • Improvements to security and privacy and updates for bug fixes.
  • New developer features for Google & 3rd party app developers to support functionality related to displaying web content in their apps.

Important: Some features may be experimental and available to certain users.

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One UI 9 could further improve One UI 8.5 user interface

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 12:12

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Beta is still fresh on the Galaxy S25 series, yet attention is already drifting to One UI 9 user interface. That’s the nature of this ecosystem; the moment one beta stabilizes, whispers about the next major version begin.

Fresh images shared by TarunVats suggest One UI 9, which is expected to run on Android 17, could further improve the One UI 8.5 user interface.

The leaked Quick Share interface shows a more compact floating bar at the bottom. The tabs appear rounder, tighter, and visually more integrated with the overall layout. It is a small tweak, but it looks more refined than ever.

The bar does not just float; it almost blends into the content layer, creating a subtle sense of depth. A slightly slimmer, more rounded bottom bar frees up vertical real estate. It also adds a level of sophistication that feels closer to Samsung’s design.

That said, this is reportedly an early internal build. Samsung is known to pivot hard based on beta feedback. Features get toned down, shapes get flattened and animations get simplified.

Samsung One UI 9 UI Elements

Screenshots courtesy Tarun Vats, via SamMobile

The latest One UI 8.5 Beta introduced a subtle but meaningful visual shift. In a major design shift, the company has replaced the old rectangular bottom bars from One UI 8.0 with floating, pill-shaped tabs.

Samsung could double down on the rounded aesthetic. Or it could partially revert if usability concerns pop up. One UI 9 is widely expected to debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 in the second half of the year.

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As Western demand slows, Samsung finds its future in India

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 10:41

India is not just a volume story anymore. It is quietly becoming a premium story. With Samsung facing a demand slowdown in the West, India looks like an impressive opportunity for the future.

According to EDaily, Samsung India posted revenue of 18.41 trillion won (around $12.7 billion) in 2025, with net profit hitting 1.54 trillion won (roughly $1.06 billion).

That is roughly 8 percent top-line growth and nearly 10 percent bottom-line growth year on year. In this climate, that is not a rounding error; that is momentum. That said, twenty trillion won in annual revenue is now within reach.

Counterpoint Research reported that smartphones priced above 30,000 rupees made up 22 percent of total shipments last year, an all-time high; an 11 percent jump in just one year. Samsung held 22 percent of the market by revenue.

Home appliances tell a similar story

Mordor Intelligence expects India’s major home appliance market to grow from about 54.6 billion dollars this year to nearly 72 billion dollars by 2031.

Samsung entered India when the country’s consumer electronics market was still forming. It stayed through currency crises, tax reforms, and brutal price wars. Now, as Western demand cools, that long patience looks more like foresight.

An industry insider noted, “Samsung Electronics has built an ecosystem spanning home appliances and smartphones through AI, giving it an advantage in targeting emerging markets,” adding, “India is likely to become a breakthrough for the home appliance and TV markets, which are facing structural downturns.”

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Planning to buy Galaxy S26? Samsung has good news

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 09:27

Samsung just confirmed a massive benefit for its fans. Galaxy S26 buyers will get free double storage upgrade. The company has silently sweetened its reservation benefits in India, adding the storage upgrade freebie.

Galaxy S26 series – Free storage upgrade

Samsung’s storage upgrade promotion doesn’t need explanation. It’s pretty famous among the Galaxy fans worldwide. Despite DRAM and NAND flash costs skyrocketing, Samsung is keeping the famous perk alive.

Galaxy S26 buyers can purchase the 512GB variant while still paying for the 256GB. The Ultra version will be available in a 1TB model as well. That said, you can score 1TB by paying for the 512GB variant in India.

At present, the freebie is confirmed for India. Samsung should bring it to fans around the world, regardless of markets. It’s a silent engine that pushes the sales of newly launched Samsung flagship smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy S26 free double storage

Source – Samsung India

Earlier, Samsung confirmed three major perks upon reservations. If you preorder the new Galaxy phones, you get an assured voucher worth INR 2,699. Lucky consumers win up to INR 5,000 voucher and entry in an INR 50,000 giveaway.

Value lock-in is a new promo added to the India store. It lets you lock in the exchange price of your current device. If you enroll for the program via WhatsApp, you will be able to grab the full exchange value during preorders.

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Google I/O 2026 announced: Here’s what Samsung users should watch closely

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 08:12

Google I/O 2026 is official; keynotes are set for May 19 and 20 and Samsung fans typically watch from the sidelines.

For years, I/O has felt like a Pixel-first show. Google builds it, Pixel debuts it, and everyone else adapts later. Galaxy users get the features, but not the spotlight; meanwhile, this year feels different.

The reason is simple: AI, XR, and deeper platform control. All three directly affect One UI, Galaxy AI, and Samsung’s next hardware cycle. If you own a Galaxy device, this keynote is not just background noise; it is early intel.

Android 17

Google pushed the first Android 17 Beta on February 13. As expected, it tweaks system defaults, improves navigation behavior across foldables and slabs, refines color profiles, and adds smarter device pairing.

The bigger narrative is design direction. Rumors suggest Android 17 may experiment with a more “liquid glass” aesthetic. Think softer layers, more depth, more translucency. Google rarely lands a final look in Beta form.

Google I/O 2026

Image – Google I/O 2026

One UI historically absorbs Google’s visual cues and reshapes them with Samsung’s own design language. Expect the One UI 9 to take whatever Android 17 experiments with and refine it for Galaxy foldable phones.

Gemini

At I/O 2026, Gemini will dominate the stage. Expect tighter integration across apps, Chrome, and possibly even more cross-device continuity.

If Google announces expanded Gemini APIs or new on-device AI capabilities, the Galaxy S26 series could be first in line to take advantage. If Gemini becomes more context-aware across apps, Samsung can localize that experience inside One UI.

Gemini integrating with Apple’s ecosystem this year shows Google is platform-agnostic when it wants to be. Expect Samsung to further differentiate Galaxy AI, even if Gemini powers part of it.

XR

Google will likely provide updates on Android XR.

I/O 2026 kicks off at 10 a.m. PST on May 19 at Shoreline. The keynote will be livestreamed, talking about AI, Android, Chrome, and cloud initiatives. For the Samsung fans, this is not just Google’s show, but a preview of the next upgrade cycle.

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Samsung reveals Galaxy S26 camera upgrade with AI features

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 07:15

Samsung has started teasing what could be the most software-heavy camera shift in Galaxy history. Galaxy S26 series keeps the majority of the camera hardware unchanged, and the 2026 upgrade is realized by AI features.

Ahead of Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, 2026, in San Francisco, Samsung is previewing a unified Galaxy AI camera experience for the Galaxy S26 series.

The pitch is simple on paper: capture, edit and share in one frictionless flow. No jumping between apps, nor exporting files just to fix exposure or crop out distractions. Every brand says something similar, but Samsung is adding a twist.

Samsung describes it as a multimodal system, meaning you can interact with the camera and editing tools more naturally, whether that is through text prompts, context-aware suggestions, or smart post-processing.

Galaxy S26’s biggest camera upgrade

Galaxy S26 will allow users to turn a bright daytime shot into a convincing night scene. Not just darken the frame, but rebuild it with realistic lighting and atmosphere.

It can also restore missing details in photos, which suggests aggressive computational reconstruction when highlights are blown out or shadows are crushed.

There is also multi-photo merging, combining several shots into one final image directly on the device. These tools are apparently powered by Samsung’s new EdgeFusion technology.

Samsung appears to be betting that software, not silicon alone, will carry the Galaxy S26 camera story. It is a clear signal that the company sees AI-driven post-processing as its edge against rivals.

If the company nails the unified flow, where capture, AI enhancement, and sharing feel like one continuous motion, it could reduce friction in a way that matters more than a few extra megapixels ever will.

We will see the full end-to-end Galaxy camera experience next week at Galaxy Unpacked in San Francisco.

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Samsung unveils Galaxy S26’s creative AI capabilities

By:Yash
18 February 2026 at 06:34

Samsung Galaxy S26 series is equipped with creative AI capabilities. Galaxy Unpacked is set to be held next week. Meanwhile, Samsung has now previewed some of the upcoming Generative AI features of the devices.

Galaxy S26 series features the most cohesive camera experience. We will discuss the potential camera upgrades in a different post. Samsung revealed so much about the camera improvements of the new flagships.

Samsung released three videos that display image editing, including AI (artificial intelligence) generation. While the company stayed silent on the tech, the new editing experience is powered by EdgeFusion technology.

EdgeFusion solution is the key driver behind Galaxy S26’s upgraded AI editing experience. It ensures on-device AI image editing and generation. The execution time is merely seconds, elevating your everyday experiences.

In the videos released, Samsung showcased fixing missing objects, generating objects and transforming pictures. These creative capabilities once required professional skills or hours of editing.

Samsung says such editing is now possible on the new Galaxy phones in minutes. Beyond that, the entire system is supported by Natural Language, meaning you can ask the phone what to do in your own words.

The first video shows Galaxy AI bringing back an eaten bite to the cupcake in seconds. The picture doesn’t lose its aesthetics, feel, or shape, all natural.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Editing Feature

Another video previews the AI-powered Sketch to Image generating a UFO in the sky. A simple sketch in the sky shot has turned into a real element.

Samsung Galaxy S26 EdgeFusion

Lastly, a picture of a dog has turned into a beautiful sticker pack. It not only keeps the primary aesthetics at the center but also generates stickers in different poses and moods.

Samsung Galaxy S26 AI Editing Feature

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One UI 8.5 experience lags behind iOS 26

18 February 2026 at 04:58

One UI 8.5 upgrades are catching attention since day one, making it the best One UI software released to date, but its overall experience lags behind Apple’s iOS 26.

One UI 8.5 has revamped the user interface and brought new shapes to UI elements, improving the visibility and reachability simultaneously. Not only that, the software redesigned core elements, such as the back button and the search bar, for a user-centric approach, utilizing the unused space from past One UI versions.

These changes are distributed across system apps and make them feel graphically pleasing. Somehow, these UI elements still feel rigid when it comes to interactions and smoothness.

With this new update, a new bottom floating tab bar has appeared in the most frequently used apps. I’ve been using iOS for years, and iOS 26 was the first to implement this UI style. Released last year, iPhone users have praised this new approach of space efficiency and optimizing the on-screen view. Later on, Samsung replicated this UI but lacks the fluidity of iOS.

The new iPhone OS has a liquid glass design, and it’s not just a name; the UI works and simulates this effect when the user interacts with buttons and tabs. The smoothness starts from unlocking the phone to scrolling through the gallery and navigating menus. Apple has improved iOS 26 in all aspects despite early visibility issues.

When you switch from iOS 26 to One UI 8.5, Samsung’s software feels low-grade with every tap, despite offering better graphics. For some of the advanced users, Good Lock could do the trick and save the day. However, not everyone is keen on doing extra optimizations to their devices, which should come out of the box. A key reason behind this argument is that in-built system optimizations are way more power efficient than add-ons.

Over the past few years, Samsung has worked a lot on UI/UX improvements for Galaxy devices. Yet, the current face of One UI 8.5 doesn’t provide satisfying results against iOS 26. We can stay optimistic about future iterations, but Samsung will have to heavily optimize the UI/UX to provide optimum smoothness.

What’s your take on this matter? Share it through our social media channels.

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Samsung TV Plus adds more free Arabic entertainment

18 February 2026 at 01:55

Samsung has added a new Arabic channel to its free streaming platform, Samsung TV Plus. The channel, Al Jazeera World, comes from Al Jazeera Media Network. This launch gives Arabic-speaking viewers more free content to enjoy.

Samsung TV Plus is a free streaming service available on many Samsung smart TVs and Galaxy devices. Users do not need to pay any monthly fee. The service is supported by ads, so people can watch without a subscription. It offers more than 3,500 live channels in 30 countries.

The new Al Jazeera World channel is now available in the Middle East and North Africa region. Millions of viewers in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt can already access it.

Samsung TV Plus US Update

The channel will soon expand to Europe. It is expected to launch in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland.

Al Jazeera World includes travel documentaries and human stories. It shows programs about different cultures, traditions, and real-life experiences from around the world.

The channel also includes selected content from Al Jazeera Documentary and Al Jazeera Arabic. With this new addition, Samsung TV Plus continues to expand its free content from different regions and offer more choices to viewers.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Google’s guidelines reveal how Samsung’s AI Glasses may work

18 February 2026 at 01:24

Google has shared new design guidelines that give us an early idea of how future Android XR smart glasses could work. These glasses include the upcoming Galaxy Glasses that Samsung is reportedly developing with fashion brands.

There will be two main types of glasses. The first type, called AI Glasses, will have a camera, microphones, and speakers. The second type, called Display AI Glasses, will include all of that plus a small augmented reality display in front of your eyes.

Both versions of the glasses are expected to have a camera button, a power button, and a touchpad. Models with a display will also include a second touchpad on the side to control on-screen items.

Android XR Glasses

Image via 9to5Google

According to the information, the camera button will be easy to use. Press it twice to open the camera. Press it once to take a photo. Press and hold to start recording a video, and press again to stop. There will also be two small LED lights. One lets you know the camera is working, and the other lets people around you know when you are recording.

 

The main touchpad will handle simple controls. Tap once to play or pause music or confirm something. Press and hold to open the Gemini assistant. Swipe to change the volume. On display models, the second touchpad lets you scroll, move between items, and go back by swiping down.

The screen layout will be simple. A system bar at the bottom will show alerts, time, weather, and notifications. Messages will appear as small bubbles that expand when tapped, letting you quickly reply or take action.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung may revise Galaxy S26 pricing after several years of freeze

18 February 2026 at 00:44

Samsung may raise the price of its Galaxy S26 phones this year. In the past, Samsung tried to keep prices the same as those of older models, even when parts became a little more expensive. But now, chips and memory are costing more, and Samsung may not be able to avoid higher prices.

Even though Samsung makes its own Exynos processors, it cannot buy them cheaper than other companies. But this time, the demand for memory is very high, as AI technology needs more and faster memory, so Samsung and other companies are using some of their memory for AI products. This pushes the price up.

Last year, Samsung kept the Galaxy S25 prices the same as the previous model. That helped sales and made customers happy. But this year, memory and chip costs are higher, so Samsung may need to raise prices for the Galaxy S26. Reports say the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ could cost more, while the Ultra model may stay at the same price.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Price

Galaxy S25 Plus | Credit – Samsung

The Galaxy S26 will use different processors in different regions. In Europe, phones will have Samsung’s Exynos chips. In the US, they will use Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Even though the US phones are less affected by Exynos prices, Samsung may raise prices worldwide because many parts are more expensive.

Some extra benefits, like free storage upgrades for pre-orders, may still continue. This can help buyers get more value even if the phone costs more.

Samsung is going to officially launch the Galaxy S26 on February 25 at the Galaxy Unpacked event 2026. At that time, we will know the full prices, features, and availability of the new phones. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung expands One UI 8.5 testing to more Galaxy devices

17 February 2026 at 23:24

Samsung is currently working on its upcoming One UI 8.5 update. It is already available in public beta, and the company is preparing it for more Galaxy devices. Now, two more Samsung Galaxy smartphones – the Galaxy F70e and Galaxy M17e – have been spotted with early One UI 8.5 test builds on Samsung’s internal servers.

A reliable tipster, @Mohammed_K_2010, shared that the Galaxy F70e and upcoming Galaxy M17e have appeared with their first One UI 8.5 firmware on the testing platform. It shows that the company has started preparing this major update for these devices.

Samsung Galaxy F70e carries the model number SM-E076B, and the first test build version is E076BXXU1BZB1. It has been found on Samsung’s servers in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

At the same time, the Galaxy M17e reportedly appears with the model number SM-M076B. Its test build version is M076BXXU1BZB1, and it has been spotted on servers in India and Nepal.

Samsung Galaxy F70e

Via – Fonearena

Samsung Galaxy M17e is an upcoming smartphone. It is expected to launch with One UI 8 pre-installed. For both devices, One UI 8.5 will likely be their first major software update after release. Since testing has already started, it looks like Samsung is preparing these devices early to ensure a smooth update experience.

The appearance of these firmware builds on test servers means that One UI 8.5 active development is underway. Samsung often tests updates in specific regions before expanding to other markets.

The stable One UI 8.5 update is expected to launch with the Samsung Galaxy S26 series in February 2026. After that, the update will gradually roll out to more eligible Galaxy devices. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Google Messages to introduce selective text copy option

17 February 2026 at 20:16

Google Messages is working on a feature that users have been asking for for many years. The app has always had one small problem that users could not copy just part of a message. They had to copy the whole message every time. Now, that may finally change.

In a recent beta version of the app, a small but helpful update has been found by Android Authority. When you press and hold a message, a menu appears with options like Copy, Star, and Forward. Earlier, tapping Copy would copy the entire message. But now, the message text inside that menu can be selected.

This means users can drag their finger over only the words they need. After selecting the text, Android’s normal copy option appears. Users can then copy just that selected part instead of the full message.

Google Messages Text Copy feature

Image via Android Authority

The new Google Messages change may sound small, but it solves a big problem. Many messages include important details like addresses, OTP codes, tracking numbers, or links. Copying the full message and deleting extra words takes extra time and effort.

Before this update, people had to use other tricks. Some selected text from the recent apps screen. Others copied everything and edited it later. These methods worked, but they were not easy or smooth. With this update, the process becomes simple and quick.

Right now, this feature is not available to everyone. It was seen in a beta version of the app. Google seems to be testing it quietly. A wider release is expected soon. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung and Dacor bring smart kitchens to KBIS 2026

17 February 2026 at 19:21

Samsung is showing its latest smart kitchen appliances at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Orlando. The company is combining its smart AI features with its luxury brand Dacor to make kitchens more connected and convenient.

Dacor is presenting new wine appliances for wine lovers. These include a 24-Inch Undercounter Wine Cellar, a Wine Column, and a Built-in Wine Dispenser. The dispenser holds four bottles and has two temperature zones for red and white wines. Users can pour the exact amount of wine with just a touch.

In addition, Dacor is introducing a hidden kitchen design. Appliances like the refrigerator, cooktop, and award-winning dishwasher are built into cabinets or curved walls. This makes the kitchen blend nicely into the home. All Dacor appliances work with SmartThings, which allows easy control from a phone.

Samsung Bespoke AI Refrigerators Gemini

Source – Samsung

Samsung’s Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub uses AI Vision to recognize food inside the fridge. This helps users keep track of ingredients and plan meals. Samsung is improving this feature so it can identify even more types of food.

Other Bespoke AI appliances, including ovens, dishwashers, and laundry machines, were on display. They all connect through SmartThings for easy control. Bixby voice commands can help suggest recipes or guide cooking.

Home Appliance Remote Management lets users monitor, diagnose, and get help for appliances remotely. Regular updates make sure devices stay smart and efficient. With these innovations, Samsung and Dacor aim to make kitchens smarter, more stylish, and easier to use.

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Samsung announces European availability plans for Galaxy Book 6 series

17 February 2026 at 18:02

Samsung has officially announced the launch of its new Galaxy Book 6 series in Europe. The company has shared when the laptops will be available, which countries will get them first, and how much each model will cost. Pre-orders will begin on February 25, 2026, and shipping will start on March 11.

The Galaxy Book 6 lineup includes updated hardware and improved performance. The series features three main models – Galaxy Book 6, Galaxy Book 6 Pro, and Galaxy Book 6 Ultra.

The Ultra model of the Galaxy Book 6 series is the most powerful option in the range. It comes with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB of RAM, 1TB of storage, and an NVIDIA RTX 5060 graphics card.

Samsung had earlier said the Ultra would be available in two versions – one with dedicated NVIDIA graphics and one with integrated Intel graphics. However, only the NVIDIA version is currently listed for Europe.

Samsung Galaxy Book 6 Laptops

Source – Samsung

Pre-orders will open first in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Spain, the UK, and Ireland. Samsung has confirmed that more European countries will get the laptops starting April 2026.

There is also a small difference between EU and UK models. In EU countries, the Galaxy Book 6 and Book 6 Pro come with 512GB of storage. In the UK, these same models come with 256GB of storage.

Here are the starting prices in Europe:

  • 14-inch Galaxy Book 6: €1,149
  • 16-inch Galaxy Book 6: €1,249
  • 16-inch (touchscreen): €1,399
  • 14-inch Galaxy Book 6 Pro: €1,799
  • 16-inch Galaxy Book 6 Pro: €1,899
  • 16-inch Galaxy Book 6 Ultra: €3,399

UK prices start at £949 and go up to £2,999 for the Ultra model. Samsung may share more details about additional versions soon. Stay tuned for more information.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra: 8 camera upgrades you should know

17 February 2026 at 17:08

Samsung’s Ultra S-series has been the most dominating camera smartphone in the Android world, while the DXOMARK team may think otherwise, consumers know it’s a real deal. That said, we’re 8 days away from the Galaxy S26 Ultra release, and the phone maker has planned camera upgrades, which could provide an enhanced all-around photography and videography experience.

Here’s the table of contents in case you want to dive into a specific section.

  1. Main
  2. Ultra-wide-angle
  3. Primary telephoto
  4. Secondary telephoto
  5. Selfie camera
  6. 24MP camera mode
  7. AI Intelligence
  8. Camera assistant

Main camera

Samsung has used the 200MP main camera for the past three generations, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra will retain this module. The new version will equip a larger sensor than previous generations, including a 1.4 aperture over the 1.7 aperture used in the S25 Ultra.

This will help the camera to take brighter images and high-quality videos. It will drop motion blur, increase shutter speed, and the portrait shots will appear precise. Also, the colors will feel more natural thanks to the new optimizations.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Camera Teaser

Image – Samsung Galaxy S26 Night Camera Teaser

Ultra wide angle

It’s one of the most underated but the most unique capability, and the next-gen device will use a 50MP sensor with f/1.9 aperture and 120-degree field of view, a 1/2.5-inch sensor size, and 0.7-micrometer pixels, as well as phase-detection autofocus. Basically, it’s the same as the last generation.

Telephoto

A 50MP telephoto camera could take good photos, but Samsung’s version hasn’t impressed much in a long-distance zoom competition. However, a sensor upgrade is planned for the 5X zoom lens with a f/2.8 aperture over the f/3.4 used in the S25 Ultra. Again, a larger aperture will let more light into the images and improve the zoomed scene. Who knows, we may now have a less pixelated view than before.

Secondary telephoto

Early versions of leaks suggest that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will use an upgraded 12MP 3x telephoto, as its predecessor did, with a 10MP version. However, now it’s being reported that the 12MP sensor will be used to capture 10MP resolution.

This strategy may benefit in capturing more details, but the resolution is likely to remain the same as the previous model. However, the situation around the 3x telephoto remains doubtful.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Camera

24MP camera mode

Samsung’s 200MP Ultra models come with three preset camera modes – 200MP, 50MP, and 12MP. Among these, the 12MP is set by default, which means most of the features rely on this resolution, since it enables faster image processing.

This situation may change with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which could bring a new 24MP camera mode. You should know that Apple has already switched to a 24MP mode as the default. And, this may be a time for the Korean phone maker to do the same for its flagship phones.

With an optimized 24MP resolution, you can take high-quality shots. Still, we have to see whether Samsung quits on the 12MP default mode.

New selfie sensor

If you are not into the rear camera, the S26 Ultra may have a surprise for you. According to reports, Samsung has installed a new sensor for better image quality and a wider field of view to capture more people in one picture. We’ve been expecting the company to adopt a square camera sensor against the iPhone 17 Pro series, but that may not be going to happen at least this year.

AI enhancements

Samsung has already made it clear that this year’s Unpacked will once again deploy new AI technologies with the Galaxy S26 series. So, you can expect improvement in AI features such as pre- and post-image processing, subject and face detection, pixel enhancement, and other key imaging capabilities.

Camera Assistant

Besides hardware and AI upgrades, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could unlock some extra perks with the Camera Assistant plugin. Some of these additions are video softening and auto focus controls. These two extra options could help pro users to control more image properties and capture better photos and videos. Learn more about them here.

Conclusion

These are just some of the most notable camera specs, but we may have more that could be uncovered at the Unpacked 2026 event.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S26 launch invite carries subtle clues

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 16:14

Samsung officially sent out the Galaxy S26 launch invite, which carries subtle clues about what next. The company is not being subtle about the timing, but the wording of its invite is where things get interesting.

“The Next AI Phone Makes Your Life Easier.”
“Designed to remove friction from the things you do every day.”

That is not marketing fluff, but a clue. Samsung is signaling a shift from flashy AI tricks to something more ambitious. This Galaxy S26 series is about agentic AI. Not just answering questions, actually doing the work.

A new phase of Galaxy AI

Samsung says the new Galaxy S series will “simplify everyday interactions” and make Galaxy AI feel seamlessly integrated from the moment it is in hand. Now, TM Roh is openly talking about accelerating the era of “Agentic AI.”

In his Wall Street Journal op-ed, he described AI that goes beyond providing answers and instead completes tasks. That is a big leap, which suggests automation woven into the OS layer, beyond feature sittin on top.

Samsung Galaxy S26 launch invite

EdgeFusion

One of the biggest technical additions is an on-device AI model called EdgeFusion. This technology reportedly generates an image in about one second from a text prompt. That means faster results, tighter privacy, and less dependency on network conditions.

If EdgeFusion is deeply embedded into One UI, it could power everything from instant content generation to proactive task management.

Privacy Display

This feature reportedly uses AI to adjust the viewing angle of the screen, automatically blocking shoulder surfing. Think financial apps, sensitive messages, and boarding passes; the sides of the display blur when the system detects risk.

Get ready for the official reveal on February 25 in California. US models are expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. European variants may run on Samsung’s own Exynos 2600. The Ultra is likely Snapdragon across the board.

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Samsung Galaxy F70e goes on sale with great camera, big battery, One UI 8, and 6-year OS updates

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 15:03

Samsung has started selling the Galaxy F70e in India. It comes with an impressive camera, decent processor, big battery, latest software, long OS support and a leather back. Interested fans can own one in India from here.

February 9, 2026:

After revealing the Galaxy F70e on February 2nd and unveiling it on February 9, Samsung finally announced the smartphone today in India. The sale is set to start on February 17, but everything about the device is now officially clear.

Samsung Galaxy F70e launched with a great camera, big battery, decent chipset, smooth screen, and long software promise. It’s available in two storage configurations, two colors, Blue and Green, with the back panel features leather finish.

Galaxy F70e – Design, Specifications and Features

Starting with the appearance, the smartphone is designed with a premium leather pattern finish at the back. It incorporates modern aesthetics with everyday practicality, and Samsung made it sleek at 8.2mm, featuring an IP54 rating.

  • Colors include Limelight Green and Spotlight Blue.

Samsung’s Galaxy F70e smartphone comes with a 6.7-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It has a High Brightness Mode (HBM) feature that delivers clear and vibrant visuals even in bright outdoor conditions.

Galaxy F70e boasts a dual rear camera setup, consisting of a 50MP main camera with f/1.5 aperture and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. For selfies, Samsung installed a front camera that features 8-megapixel resolution.

Samsung Galaxy F70e India

Source – Samsung Newsroom

Under the hood, the F70e is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300. Samsung revealed the device hits impressive 623,000+ AnTuTu score. The chip’s CPU peaks at 2.4 GHz, offering 10 percent gaming performance gains.

It’s packed with a massive 6000mAh battery and supports 25W fast-charging. As compared to its predecessor, the phone has received a 20 percent increment in battery capacity for seamless productivity and connectivity.

Samsung touts One UI optimization for smooth experiences and battery life. It runs Android 16-based One UI 8 for an intuitive user experience. Software support includes 6 generations of OS and 6 years of security updates.

The company will start selling the Galaxy F70e in 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB versions in India, starting February 17. It will be available on Samsung.com, Flipkart, and select retail stores across the country.

Price:

  • 4GB + 128GB – INR 12,499
  • 6GB + 128GB – INR 13,999

Consumers can avail an additional INR 500 special launch offer for a limited period.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Reservations Live: $30 bonus, $900 off and a $5,000 giveaway

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 14:55

Samsung is offering a free $30 bonus to every potential Galaxy S26 buyer in the US as part of early reservations. That’s not the only benefit, as you can score up to $900 in trade-in savings and a $5,000 giveaway (sweepstakes).

Samsung Galaxy S26 Reservations Live

Last Wednesday, Samsung released the official Unpacked invites. The in-person event is set to take place in San Francisco, California. Fans around the world can witness the Galaxy S26 unveiling through a YouTube livestream.

The Unpacked invite came along with decent promotions. It includes free Samsung Credit for every shopper, along with crazy trade-in savings. Plus, reservations also ensure your entry into a hefty giveaway in the United States.

Free credit

Samsung fans reserving the next Galaxy are eligible for $30 Credit. It will be accessible when you preorder the Galaxy S26 series. It can be used to purchase accessories and potentially wearable and hearable devices.

Begins 6:00 p.m. ET on 2/10/26 and ends 12:59 p.m. ET on 2/25/26.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Reservations

Trade-in benefits

Samsung is teasing up to $900 trade-in credits toward the new flagships. The most recent flagships, including the Galaxy S25 and S24 series, may offer huge value. If you’re considering an upgrade, don’t skip reservations.

Giveaway

It’s the most interesting part. Samsung fans in the US enter a $5,000 giveaway by reserving the next Galaxy. Whether you purchase the new device or not, you stand a chance to be that one lucky person to grab this huge amount.

  • Reserve the next Galaxy here.

Samsung Product Reservation Sweepstakes is sponsored by Samsung Electronics America, Inc. Open to legal residents of the 50 US/DC, 18 years of age or older. No purchase is necessary to enter or win the giveaway.

For Official Rules, visit here.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Reserve

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Fresh Galaxy S26 Ultra benchmarks show stabilized performance

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 14:19

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Global variant’s performance looks stabilized after recent fluctuations. With the flagship lineup near official unveiling, things are getting settled, including the performance benchmark.

Galaxy S26 Ultra packs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy globally. This is a custom chipset tailor-made for Samsung flagships. It brings an overclocked prime core than the standard version that powers Android flagship phones.

Galaxy S26 Ultra performance

The phone’s Global version was spotted on Geekbench on February 16. The latest scores hint at performance stabilization. It’s a clear sign that the software is out to hit an optimization milestone – a great development before Unpacked.

Single-Core Scores

  • In the recent Geekbench runs, the Galaxy S26 Ultra scored from 3,629 to 3,761 points.

Multi-Core Scores

  • The Galaxy S26 Ultra stayed between 11,133 and 11,454 in the multi-core test.

In previous tests, the chipset was usually scoring around 3,000 points in single-core and under 11,000 in multi-core tests. With optimized software, the performance scores have improved, and the status has been maintained.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy brings a dual-cluster octa-core CPU. It has two prime cores clocked at 4.74 GHz and 6 performance cores at 3.63 GHz. It has an Adreno 840 GPU for impressive graphics performance.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Global Geekbench

Source – Geekbench

Samsung will launch the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a Snapdragon chip globally. The base and Plus models will feature either Exynos or Snapdragon, depending on the market.

US, Canada, and China would maintain Snapdragon exclusivity as always. Samsung would bring Exynos-powered S26s primarily in Asian, African, and European countries.

Samsung is set to hold the Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25 in San Francisco.

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Apple copies Samsung to dominate phones year round

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 09:17

Apple is about to do something Samsung has mastered for years: stagger its iPhone launches.

The so-called iPhone 17e is expected to break cover on March 4. If that date holds, it will mark the second straight early-year debut for Apple’s budget tier.

We have seen this play from Samsung for a decade: Galaxy S in the first half and Galaxy Z (after Note) in the second. Unpacked sets the rhythm of the year, and now Apple appears ready to follow that rhythm.

For years, Apple treated its lower-cost iPhones like side projects. The iPhone 5c, XR, and SE models showed up in March, April, and even September. Meanwhile, Samsung locked down the first half with Galaxy S and owned the news cycle.

Samsung has traditionally dominated the first half with the Galaxy S series. This year, even with Unpacked shifting slightly later than usual, the Galaxy S remains the benchmark for early-year flagship launches.

Apple does not want to leave that window empty anymore.

By placing the iPhone 17e on March 4, Apple ensures it has a product in the market while Galaxy S26 series ramp up globally. It is not a direct flagship versus flagship fight, but something more strategic to occupy space.

iPhone 17e – Specifications (expected)

  • A19 chip built on TSMC third generation 3nm node
  • Up to 10 percent CPU performance gain
  • Improved GPU and power efficiency
  • In-house C1X modem
  • N1 networking chip
  • MagSafe support returns
  • 6.1-inch OLED display
  • Around 4,000mAh battery
  • MagSafe charging
  • Notch design retained
  • Price: $599

Apple historically used older chips in its budget models. This time, it may deploy the same silicon as its flagship tier. The fight is about AI workloads on device and Samsung has already framed that conversation with Galaxy AI inside One UI.

Samsung has played that balancing act carefully across Galaxy S and FE models. Now Apple is refining its own version of that approach.

Apple Event iPhone 17e

Source – Apple

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Galaxy S26 Ultra leak shows deeply customizable Privacy Display mode

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 08:37

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is equipped with a deeply customizable Privacy Display feature. Samsung has been aggressively teasing this technology, which is reportedly exclusive to the Ultra version, ahead of the Unpacked event.

In a recent development, two screenshots from the Galaxy S26 Ultra have been allegedly leaked (via TarunVats), exposing the customizable Privacy Display feature. The pictures give us a clear idea of how the feature works on the device.

Privacy display

There’s a dedicated section called Privacy Display inside settings. The feature description reads “Protect your privacy by turning on the Privacy Display anytime.”

When disabled, the settings page displays that the “Privacy display is off. It will be turned on automatically when conditions are met.”

Auto Privacy

Privacy Display is linked with software and AI. The device will allow you to automatically use Private display when you use sensitive apps and when you’re in crowded places.

Manual settings

This is a dedicated section next to Auto Privacy. It will list all the Privacy Display customization options set up by the user through Privacy triggers.

Maximum privacy

This mode follows the custom section that is designed for even stronger privacy protection. It comes as a one-shot toggle, and when enabled, it makes the screen dimmer than usual while Private display is on.

Privacy triggers

Where you are

Public places

  • Public places with lots of people, such as elevators or public transportation.

What content you see on display

Screen lock

  • PIN, Password, Pattern

Images

  • Photos in Gallery app that contain privacy or images with image protection.

Which part

Notifications

  • Partial display protection.

Picture-in-picture

  • Partial display protection.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Privacy Display

Source – Tarun Vats

The second screenshot has two typos, including “Publice,” and “transportaion.” These issues would also be fixed in the stable firmware post-launch. Samsung is set to hold a mega Unpacked event on February 25 in San Francisco.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 launch timing is perfect

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 07:34

Samsung Galaxy S26 is set to launch on February 25 in San Francisco. Back home in Korea, that lands barely ten days after Seollal, meaning red envelopes and holiday bonuses are about to morph into pre-order deposits.

The Unpacked cycle has effectively synced with the Korean holiday calendar. Many are holding off on other purchases, treating Seollal money as a down payment on the S26.

The Galaxy S line lives in the mid-1 million won range. That number always stings a little, but holiday cash softens the blow. A few hundred thousand won from gift money, a bonus tucked away, and suddenly the psychological barrier drops.

Pre-orders are expected to open within days of the February 25 event. If Samsung sticks to its usual cadence, devices will be in consumers’ hands by March 11.

How S26 launch in February is perfect?

BoM costs are not moving in Samsung’s favor. Mobile AP pricing is under pressure, and memory costs are climbing again. Chip suppliers are not in a charitable mood this year; on paper, the S26 could cost more than the S26 series.

The company froze pricing on the Galaxy S25 last year. If Samsung limits any increase to something symbolic, the optics become powerful. Consumers who already feel primed by holiday funds will see stability where they expected pain.

Expect the free Double Storage benefit to return, possibly more aggressively than before. Add in enhanced trade-in offers, with above-market compensation for older Galaxy devices, and the upfront cost shrinks again.

Samsung is not just launching new phones; it is inserting the Galaxy S26 into a cultural spending moment. In a year where component costs are rising and competition is not easing up, that kind of timing may prove more valuable.

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Samsung almost uncovered the Galaxy S26 release date

By:Yash
17 February 2026 at 06:45

Samsung Galaxy Book 6 series is coupled with Galaxy S26 series when it comes to preorder and release date. The company today disclosed key dates for the European market, giving us an idea of the upcoming flagship phones.

According to Samsung, the Galaxy Book 6 series will be available for preorders starting February 25. It’s the same day as the Galaxy S26 series unveiling, and the phones will also open for preorders immediately after the reveal.

Post-launch, Samsung is set to open Book 6 series sales on March 11, and that’s the most likely release date of the Galaxy S26 series. Several Korean outlets pointed to the March 11 availability of the forthcoming Galaxy models.

That said, the Galaxy S26 is all set to be available for purchase, even offline, starting March 11.

The South Korean tech giant has already started Galaxy reservations. US residents are eligible for a free $30 Samsung Credit. It also unlocks trade-in benefits of up to $900 and enters you into a giveaway worth $5,000.

This year, Samsung’s marketing is focused on camera and display. The company is continuously dropping new teasers targeting the AI-powered Privacy Display technology and low-light photo/video camera improvements.

Privacy Display is gaining traction even before debuting with the Galaxy S26 series. Reports suggest Apple is eyeing to replicate the technology on its MacBook laptops, but it would take time, with the launch expected by 2029.

Low-light camera improvements are also the primary highlight. From the beginning, it has dominated Galaxy S26 teaser releases. Samsung also once spotlighted ultra-clear zoom photography earlier this month.

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Advanced Audio option spotted in One UI 8.5 Connected Devices – Here’s how it works

17 February 2026 at 03:13

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 is currently in public beta testing, and the company is expected to release the stable version with the upcoming Galaxy S26 series. The update brings several new features, and now another useful tool has been spotted in the Connected Devices section of Settings.

Advanced Audio feature has been spotted by a reliable tipster @GalaxyTechie. It is designed to improve sound recording when using external microphones connected through Bluetooth. It allows users to record 24-bit high-quality audio, which means clearer sound with more detail and better voice quality.

When you open Advanced Audio, you will see a High-Quality Audio Input option. There is a simple toggle to turn it on or off. Once enabled, compatible Bluetooth microphones can deliver professional-level audio for recording videos, interviews, live streams, and more.

Samsung One UI 8.5 Advanced Audio Feature Samsung One UI 8.5 Advanced Audio Feature Samsung One UI 8.5 Advanced Audio Feature

Some supported devices also offer dual-microphone synchronized recording. This means you can connect two microphones at the same time, which is helpful for two-person interviews or live broadcasts. If the connected microphones do not support syncing, the phone will use the main connected microphone for recording.

Also, there is a feature for microphone parameter adjustment. Users can adjust settings such as noise reduction level and gain. These controls can be changed from the feature page, and quick adjustments can also be made from the notification bar while recording.

The feature currently supports select DJI microphones, including DJI Mic 2, Mic 3, Mic Mini, and the upcoming Mic Mini 2, via Bluetooth connection.

In the more detailed section, Samsung mentions that this feature is made for recording, video shooting, and livestreaming. However, it does not work for phone calls or instant voice chats.

With Advanced Audio, One UI 8.5 makes Galaxy devices more powerful for content creators and everyday users who want better sound quality. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Massive Discount on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 512GB Variant

17 February 2026 at 02:18

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is now available at a big discount on Amazon. This is amazing news for people who want to buy a foldable phone but were waiting for a lower price.

The deal is for the 512GB storage version of the phone. The original price of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is $2,119.99. With the current offer, the price has dropped to $1,715.99. This means buyers can save about $450, which is around 19% off. This is a huge discount for a premium smartphone.

The important part of this deal is only available on the Jet Black color. If you like this color, you get the biggest price cut. Jet Black is the only color option with this much discount right now.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

Source – Samsung Mobile Press

Other colors, such as Blue Shadow and Silver Shadow, are also on sale. However, these colors do not have the same discount. They are cheaper than before, but the price is still higher than the Jet Black version. So, if saving money is more important than color, Jet Black is the best choice.

This offer is available for a limited time on Amazon. Prices and availability may change, so interested buyers should check the product page soon to grab the deal before it ends. Click here to visit the page.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 discontinued in the US ahead of Unpacked event

17 February 2026 at 01:36

Samsung is quietly removing the Galaxy Buds 3 from its USA online store just before Galaxy Unpacked 2026. Unlike a usual sold-out product, the Buds 3 page now redirects to the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, suggesting Samsung may not bring the standard model back. This move seems timed to make room for the upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 lineup.

The regular Galaxy Buds 3 are known for their tipless, open design. Without silicone eartips, they didn’t seal the ear canal, which made fit and sound quality inconsistent. Noise isolation was limited, and the bass could feel weak for some users.

When Samsung launched the Galaxy Buds 3 FE, sales of the Galaxy Buds 3 declined. The FE model was cheaper, and even though it skipped some features like wireless charging and higher water resistance, many users felt it sounded better than the standard Buds 3.

Samsung Galaxy Buds charging tips

Currently, the Buds 3 Pro and Buds 3 FE remain available in the USA, while the standard Buds 3 appear to be a short-lived experiment. Removing the product now clears space for the new generation.

For Samsung earbud fans, this likely marks the end of the regular Buds 3 as attention shifts to the Galaxy Buds 4, expected to launch at Unpacked 2026. The move shows Samsung is enhancing its earbuds lineup, keeping models that deliver the best performance and quietly retiring ones that didn’t connect as well with users.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Early Look at Samsung Galaxy S26 Accessories: Grip Cases, Skins, and More

17 February 2026 at 00:07

With the Samsung Galaxy S26 series launch just around the corner, new details about the phones have appeared online. Canadian accessory maker dbrand has listed cases, skins, and screen protectors for the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra on its website, which gives fans an early look at the design of these phones.

For the standard Galaxy S26, dbrand offers a customizable Grip Case, allowing users to change the grip to their liking. There are also several skin options. These skins are carefully cut by industrial-grade machines to fit the phone perfectly.

The Prism 2.0 Screen Protector is also available. For this, dbrand says it is easy to install, scratch-proof, dust-proof, fingerprint-proof, and very simple to use.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Grip Case

The Galaxy S26 Plus comes with the same accessories as the standard S26. It includes customizable Grip cases, skins, and the Prism 2.0 screen protector.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a few more options. In addition to the customizable Grip Case, dbrand offers a rugged Tank Case for extra protection. There’s also the Ghost Case 2.0, a transparent case that resists yellowing, fits the phone well, provides a good grip, and offers strong protection without hiding the phone’s look.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Ghost Case

Like the other models, the Ultra also has skins in different designs and the Prism 2.0 screen protector for full protection.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Case

These accessories not only give a first look at the phones’ camera designs but also show what kinds of customization and protection users can expect. Samsung has scheduled the Galaxy Unpacked event 2026 for February 25, 2026. Stay tuned.

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Android Auto could soon get an Android 16-inspired visual upgrade

16 February 2026 at 22:49

Google is working on small design changes for Android Auto. These changes are mainly for the icons that show your phone’s network signal on your car’s screen. The new design looks similar to the style introduced in Android 16. It makes Android Auto look cleaner and more modern, just like Android phones.

In the latest Android Auto beta version (16.3.160744), new signal strength icons have been found by Assemble Debug. The current version shows signal strength as a filled triangle shape. The new design replaces this with separate vertical bars that clearly show how strong the signal is. The icons also look rounder and smoother than before.

Also, there is an updated text for network types like 4G or 5G. The font looks more modern and easier to read. However, the battery icon still looks the same, which means not all icons have been updated yet.

Android Auto icons Update

Image via Android Authority

Even though Android 16 already has new status bar icons on phones, Android Auto has continued using the old style. This happens because Android Auto stores its own icons inside the app. It does not directly copy the icons from your phone. That’s why most users still see the older design in their cars.

Some Samsung users may notice slightly different icons because Samsung uses its own design style. Notably, both gray and black versions of the new icons has been spotted. This suggests Google is preparing a light theme for Android Auto.

There is no official release date yet, but the update could arrive in a future version. Stay tuned for more information.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung teases powerful low-light video feature of Galaxy S26 series

16 February 2026 at 21:35

Samsung Galaxy S26 series is going to launch on 25 February 2026. The company has already started sharing teaser videos to create excitement about the new phones. Now, the company has shared another teaser that reveals a new and exciting feature – a low-light video recording option.

A few days ago, Samsung showed a teaser about the Privacy Display feature of the Galaxy S26 series. Now, here is the teaser for the Low Light Video option.

Samsung Mobile US posted a new teaser video on X. In the post, Samsung wrote:

“Brighten your after-hours. Can your phone do that? Get ready for the next level of photography with #GalaxyAI to capture your shot even in the lowest lighting.”

The teaser video highlights the phone’s ability to record bright and clear videos even at night or in very dark places. In the video, the words “Sun down. Moon up.” appear on the screen, showing that the feature is designed for nighttime recording.

Samsung New Teaser Low Light Video

Image via Samsung (X)

The video also shows how the Galaxy S26 series can improve brightness in dark scenes. Even when there is very little light, the phone makes the video look clearer and more detailed. This means users can capture better memories at night without worrying about poor lighting.

Brighten your after hours. 🌙 Can your phone do that? Get ready for the next level of photography with #GalaxyAI to capture your shot even in the lowest lighting.

Reserve now: https://t.co/dTlilFNoHy pic.twitter.com/yb5LoH0Aw9

— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) February 16, 2026

Samsung is using Galaxy AI technology to power this feature, which helps users take better photos and videos in low light. Users can also register for the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event to receive special benefits and updates about the new Galaxy S26 series. Stay tuned.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 coming with next-generation AI editing tools

16 February 2026 at 18:49

Samsung is ready to launch the Galaxy S26 series on February 25, 2026. Ahead of the official launch, many leaks and rumors have already shared details about these new phones. Now, a fresh leak has revealed an interesting Galaxy AI feature of the Galaxy S26 series that may make photo editing much easier for users.

A well-known tipster, @thatjoshguy69, revealed the Galaxy S26 series will bring a new Galaxy AI feature. The new feature has been spotted in the Tips section –  Transform photos with prompts and image clips.

This new feature will let users edit photos by simply typing what they want. In the Photo Assist tool, there will be a text box where you can write instructions like adding an object, removing something, or changing parts of the image. Then, the AI will understand the text and edit the image automatically. 

Samsung Galaxy S26 AI image tool

Image via TarunVats

Users will also be able to take objects from other photos and add them to a new picture. You just need to describe how you want the final image to look. The AI will naturally mix everything so the photo looks real.

In addition, there is a useful option for sketching. By tapping the Brush icon, users can draw something on the photo. It can be a simple, rough drawing. The AI will then turn that sketch into a realistic object that matches the image.

The Galaxy S26 series will come with stable One UI 8.5 software. This means the new AI photo editing feature will be included in One UI 8.5. Right now, One UI 8.5 is being tested in public beta for the Galaxy S25 series. Stay tuned for more information.

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Galaxy S26 Series: 9 software upgrades to get excited

16 February 2026 at 17:14

We’re just 9 days away from the Galaxy S26 series launch event, and Samsung has decided to pack this new flagship with a new software with 9 software upgrades that you can look forward to.

New buttons

With this version, One UI 8.5 has revamped its core UI elements, including the back button. It’s now more compact and touch-friendly than ever before. On the other hand, the search bar has been simplified to save space and enlarge the full-screen view. The same goes for the floating tab bar, which succeeds the previous generation.

Samsung One UI 8.5 back button

Better colors

The software has improved semi-transparent effects and colors, enhancing the UI visibility for a better experience.

New control panel panel

Galaxy S26 series will have a customizable quick panel, increasing the range of motion from swapping controls and buttons, and providing more freedom across the UI arrangement.

One UI 8.5 Quick Settings

Image – SammyFans

Better apps

Some of the system apps are completely redesigned with new UI, background, and better animations. For example, the clock app has a subtle shape of the region in the background of the world clock. On the other hand, the bottom button navigation bar is changed ot the rounded floating bar. Similar changes can be found in the Gallery as well as other apps.

New Power Saving

Now, if you are like me, you may want to know how to preserve your new Galaxy S26 series phone’s battery life. One UI 8.5 has revamped the power saving mode, enhancing your control over the apps and features that you no longer want to drain your phone’s power.

Power Saving in One UI 8.0 and One UI 8.5

Improved Lock Screen

While Samsung may not offer any huge difference from One UI 8.0 in this segment, the new software has made the lock screen layout more adaptive than before. It has removed some constraints on the clock design as well.

Samsung Adaptive Clock design

Gen AI

The Galaxy S26 series will come with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset with an enhanced NPU. This will contribute to more powerful AI features, including the new generative AI. One of the fan favorite features – the object removal and replacement tool will get a massive upgrade with this release.

Privacy display

One of the biggest highlights of this release is the new display privacy feature, which will allow the Galaxy S26 series users to hide the on-screen content from other people. This technology combined the software and hardware capabilities to provide confidence to use the phone in public.

Samsung Privacy Display feature

Surprise Ahead

The list doesn’t end here; the Galaxy S26 series will have more software features that we’re not aware of, and for that, we’ll have to dive into the Unpacked 2026 event on February 25. We’ll be covering the new revelations from the conference, so stay updated.

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Galaxy S25 Ultra already has one big S26 Ultra camera feature?

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 15:59

Galaxy S26 Ultra brings a meaningful upgrade to the video camera, which Samsung already brought to the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The upcoming beast, Galaxy S26 Ultra, will push video zoom to 25x, and it’s already available on the S25 Ultra.

The jump from 20x to 25x in video mode is not just flashy. It changes framing flexibility without switching to still capture. The reveal did not come from a flashy teaser, but slipped through the One UI 8.5 Beta on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

With the January build of One UI 8.5 Alpha, something interesting happened. The stock camera app on the S25 Ultra suddenly unlocked 25x video zoom. That was not there before; the device was officially capped at 20x video zoom.

Samsung rarely expands zoom ceilings mid-cycle unless it is testing code that was originally written for future hardware. We have seen it before with Nightography camera refinements and portrait processing shifts.

The internal One UI 8.5 build basically tipped Samsung’s hand. The 25x limit was not primarily built for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. It was built for the Galaxy S26 Ultra and then quietly pushed downstream to stress test stability in the wild.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Video Camera Mode

Image – Left One UI 8.5 (Public Beta) | Right One UI 8.5 (Internal Beta)

Out of the box, the Galaxy S25 Ultra maxed out at 20x video zoom. A 5x bump sounds small on paper, but in practice, that extra reach gives creators more cropping headroom and more framing freedom.

Early rumors point to tighter integration with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Qualcomm’s next ISP is expected to lean heavily into real-time AI enhancement. It unlocks cleaner high-zoom footage without needing dramatically different glass.

Samsung is set to unveil the Galaxy S26 Ultra in the US on February 25. The 25x video zoom upgrade may not be the headline feature on stage. It will likely get a quick demo clip (or may be note) and move on.

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One UI 8.5 or 9 could bring AirDrop-like Quick Share changes

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 15:05

In One UI 8.5 or One UI 9.0, Samsung Quick Share experience may soon look a lot more like Apple’s AirDrop, and not by accident.

Google brought AirDrop sharing support to Quick Share on Pixel 10 and Pixel 9 series. However, the company has silently dumped a fan favorite convenience. Google has quietly removed the permanent “Everyone” visibility option.

The change appeared with Google Play Services v26.06.31, which points to a broader strategy, one that Samsung is almost certain to follow in One UI 8.5 or One UI 9.

Until now, Quick Share offered a persistent “Everyone” toggle. When enabled, your device remains discoverable indefinitely. Pixel 10 users get three visibility modes: Contacts, Your Devices, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.

Apple’s AirDrop has followed a similar security model for years, limiting open visibility to short sessions. By adopting the same 10-minute model, Google removes potential restrictions from Apple, citing security and risk.

Android Quick Share iPhone AirDrop

Image via Google

Samsung has long integrated Quick Share into One UI. With One UI 8.5 expected to debut alongside the Galaxy S26, and One UI 9 in internal testing for the Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8, the change could be deployed (via SamMobile).

A server-side switch from Google is all it takes. Once Play Services standardizes the visibility framework, One UI will almost certainly mirror it. That means the permanent “Everyone” toggle is likely living on borrowed time.

One UI 8.5 may introduce the change quietly, framed as a “security improvement.” One UI 9 could formalize it as the new standard. Either way, the era of leaving your Galaxy permanently visible to everyone nearby appears to be ending.

Related article:

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Galaxy Buds 4 Pro leak reveals major design shift and missing feature

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 14:12

Press renders of Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro have been revealed, and the listing sheds light on the design and a missing feature.

With Unpacked set for February 25, where the Galaxy S26 series is expected to take center stage, Samsung’s next-gen audio lineup is clearly gearing up for a debut alongside its flagship phones.

Galaxy Buds 4 and Pro design

A fresh leak, shared by @Mohammed_K_2010/X, points to a notable design overhaul for Samsung’s next flagship TWS earbuds. Buried in the details is something longtime Buds users will immediately notice, and possibly dislike.

The Pro variant appears to carry more premium branding and potentially different in-box accessories. Meanwhile, the vanilla model seems more minimal, reinforcing Samsung’s usual two-tier TWS strategy.

Samsung has reportedly shifted to a horizontal layout for the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, moving away from the more vertical, pocket-friendly orientation. The lid is now transparent, and this clear top subtly changes how the product feels.

Speaker grill gone?

Galaxy Buds 4 Pro appear to be taking a different path than many expected. The leak suggests that the Buds 4 Pro charging case no longer features a visible speaker grill. If accurate, that likely means the case speaker is gone.

Samsung’s recent premium Buds cases can emit a sound when triggered through SmartThings Find. It turns a potentially expensive loss into a five-minute scavenger hunt; remove it, and you are back to silent searching.

Taking away an audible locating feature in 2026 is hard to justify unless there is a compelling reason, like size reduction or battery optimization.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro

Via – Mohammed Khatri

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Galaxy S26 Ultra front camera leak teases big upgrade over S25 Ultra

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 12:10

Samsung’s next Ultra is already leaking in pieces, and this one is all about selfies. Reliable tipster IceUniverse has shared fresh details about the front camera of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The headline change is not resolution, but the sensor supplier.

The upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra is tipped to retain the 12-megapixel front camera with some twists. Instead of Samsung’s ISOCELL, the device would feature a Sony-made image sensor, probably the IMX874. Here are the key specs:

  • 12-megapixel resolution
  • Sony sensor
  • 1/3.2-inch sensor size
  • 1.12μm pixel size
  • F2.2 aperture
  • 85-degree field of view

The Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone also shipped with a 12MP F2.2 selfie camera. On paper, this looks nearly identical: same resolution, same aperture, and similar pixel size. The interesting twist is the switch to Sony.

For years, Samsung has used its own ISOCELL sensors across much of its lineup. A move to a Sony sensor in the Ultra line signals something deliberate. Sony’s IMX series has a strong reputation for dynamic range and natural color science.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra front camera

The 1/3.2-inch size and 1.12μm pixels suggest this is still a compact camera. Shoppers shouldn’t expect a dramatic leap in low-light performance. The 85-degree FOV keeps things consistent with the Ultra’s wide framing for group selfies.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra delivered sharp detail, reliable HDR, and strong skin tone processing. A Sony sensor could potentially improve texture handling or dynamic range without touching the headline sensor specifications.

While Sony is taking over ISOCELL on the front, the legacy Sony telephoto is being replaced by an ISOCELL sensor. Samsung is utilizing its in-house camera as the 10-megapixel 3x telephoto module to improve zoom photos and videos.

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Why Apple’s iOS 27 battery focus should embarrass Samsung right now

16 February 2026 at 11:49

It looks like Apple is quietly working on one of its most important iOS updates in years. According to a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is not looking for flashy new features or a wild redesign in iOS 27. Instead, the American smartphone company is doing some serious cleanup and improvements.

For a long time, iOS has been collecting a lot of unnecessary, redundant code, more like a messy closet. Apple is finally going in to rewrite the inefficient code and optimize the apps that have now become too big.

The main goal is to achieve better performance and, most importantly, improved battery life. This is a huge deal, especially after people noticed their batteries draining faster upgrading to iOS 26.

Plus, if your older iPhone still gets the iOS 27 update, you might notice better battery life. That’s because Apple is removing old, unnecessary code that runs in the background and wastes power.

Recent tests from CNET and YouTube show exactly why this matters. Even though Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra has a huge 5,000mAh battery, the iPhone Pro Max models often last longer in the real world. I have tested this myself.

Apple’s secret is how well its hardware and software communicate with each other. Apple’s device can squeeze more hours out of a smaller battery because the system isn’t wasting energy. Many iPhones user can push into a second day of heavy use, while Samsung phones often need a charger sooner, even if they charge faster.

Is Samsung falling behind?

Samsung isn’t just sitting around. Android 17 (One UI 9) is supposed to handle background tasks and CPU scheduling better. But right now, these feel more like small patches rather than the deep, ground-up fix that Apple is trying to do with iOS 27.

The problem is that Samsung’s One UI just keeps adding more features. Between AI tools, multitasking, and heavy customization, a lot is happening in the background. It’s great for power users, but not for me. I prefer performance and battery over everything else.

The world has changed. Just getting through the day isn’t enough anymore. Between video calls, streaming, and all-day social scrolling, we want phones that can last into a second day without worrying about a charger. Battery anxiety is a real thing, and it’s a main reason why people pick one phone over another.

If Apple really pulls off these battery life gains just by fixing its software, it’s going to be tough for Samsung. You can’t just keep relying on bigger batteries and 65W charging to hide software that isn’t optimized. Well, I have been crying for this software optimization for years. 2026 isn’t different.

Samsung has every tool to beat Apple at this game. The company has the talent and the resources. But Samsung needs to decide if it wants to keep adding gimmicks or if it’s ready to do a deep “efficiency-first” cleanup of its own.

Apple is paying attention to what users actually want right now. The big question is: will Samsung finally prioritize optimization, or will it let iPhones pull ahead in the one area that matters to us every single day?

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Half of February is gone, but Samsung’s update hasn’t arrived

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 09:19

February Update rollout faces unusual delays as Samsung prioritizes Galaxy S26 series launch preparations for Unpacked. Only One UI 8.5 Beta 4 users received the patch, while public distribution remains pending with 37 security improvements awaiting release.

Samsung usually keeps an edge over Google when it comes to security update rollouts, but 2026 continues to witness a slow start. Half the month passed, but Samsung hasn’t yet released the February 2026 update.

Earlier this month, Samsung revealed details of its February 2026 security update. It brings a slew of improvements to Galaxy devices, but the rollout hasn’t begun. It’s concerning, but has big reasons behind the delay.

Galaxy Unpacked

Samsung is set to launch its new flagship phones on February 25 in the US. It’s going to be the biggest launch event of the year. That said, the focus is on the final moves before the new phones are unveiled at the Unpacked.

After Pro and Edge rumors, the Galaxy S26 series remains intact, bringing base, Plus, and Ultra versions as always. The software side is getting a major ramp, with the new OS shipping with foldables months before.

One UI 8.5

With the One UI 8.5 Beta 4, Samsung stapled the February 2026 patch. Galaxy S25 users on One UI 8.5 Beta have received the latest patch. Meanwhile, the public rollout hasn’t started yet, even for any model, be it flagship or budget.

It’s Monday, and Samsung initiates rollouts at the beginning of the month. If the patch doesn’t arrive today, Wednesday is the next strong contender.

Samsung is pretty much late in its February 2026 update rollout. The company should have already provided the software early. It would have freed the team from SMR release and focused on the finishing touches for One UI 8.5.

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Galaxy S26 could be Samsung’s most expensive flagship

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 08:44

Fans need to brace themselves: the Galaxy S26 is shaping up to be the most expensive flagship in Samsung’s history. Not because the company wants it that way, but because the math is starting to look brutal.

According to Chosun, the price of mobile DRAM has surged from around $1.35 per unit to as high as $9.30. That is not a minor fluctuation, but a structural shift, and when memory costs multiply like that, the entire BOM gets distorted.

The pressure is building on Samsung Mobile’s head, TM Roh, and the Mobile eXperience Division. The hard truth is simple: memory prices are exploding, margins are thinning, and the era of quiet price freezes may be over.

Premium materials, better camera sensors, brighter OLED panels, satellite connectivity, and now AI acceleration all pile onto the BOM. Add skyrocketing memory prices, and you have what insiders are calling unsustainable margins.

Korean media reports that the Galaxy S26 could become more expensive by 100,000 won, while the Ultra could start at 1.8 million won. Meanwhile, the US pricing strategy may remain unchanged, with the price frozen.

iPhone 17 price unchanged

Apple commands around 62 percent of the global premium smartphone market. Suppliers want Apple’s volumes, helping the iPhone maker to negotiate from strength. Samsung does not have that luxury in the same way.

In short, Apple can afford a price freeze. Samsung is being cornered by its own component ecosystem. That said, the era of cheap flagship memory is over, and the Galaxy S26 could be the first true casualty.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Live Image

Source – @Kakooli98/X

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Rich investors load up on Samsung

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 07:50

Smart money rarely makes noise; it accumulates. Rich investors, riding the AI wave, are preferring Samsung first, SK Hynix later, as an investment choice.

Over the past 40 days, Korea’s rich investors, those sitting on 1 billion won or more in brokerage balances, have been buying with conviction. KB Securities data shows nearly a third of their net Korean purchases went into one name: Samsung Electronics.

Samsung accounted for 29.1 percent of net purchases. SK Hynix followed at 18.1 percent. Combined, almost half of the wealthy cohort’s domestic buying went into two memory giants.

When wealthy investors concentrate this heavily in Samsung during a cyclical trough, they are effectively underwriting its next earnings rerating.

Samsung’s market cap has long been constrained by memory volatility and foundry disbelief. A clean AI-driven earnings rebound changes that narrative fast.

For the past year, global markets have been obsessed with GPU suppliers and hyperscalers. Now attention is shifting to what actually feeds those systems. High bandwidth memory, advanced DRAM, and NAND with improved ASPs.

Galaxy ecosystem benefits directly

Stronger semiconductor margins fund more aggressive R and D in mobile SoCs, image sensors, and on-device AI. Better yield rates reduce component costs that feed product competitiveness.

Exynos 2600, being used in Galaxy S26 series, seems to be a hit. Samsung has also reportedly started work on the Exynos 2700 chipset, which would power the Galaxy S27 series.

Samsung introduced Heat Path Block packaging solution in Exynos 2600. The next-gen Exynos would further improve packaging technology, while levaraging the second-gen SF2P 2nm process.

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Samsung says Galaxy S26 Ultra upgrade ‘deserves a medal’

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 07:00

Galaxy S26 Ultra is unveiling next week, and Samsung calls this upgrade “deserves a medal.” The company is also encouraging its fans in the US to reserve the next Galaxy to score a free $30 Credit and up to $900 savings.

In a recent X post, Samsung called Galaxy S26 Ultra an upgrade that “deserves a medal.” The latter part was occupied by reservation benefits, followed by a link. Meanwhile, the intention was clear to spotlight the upcoming flagships.

Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S26 series on February 25. A live event will take place in San Francisco, California. Fans around the world can also witness the live launch showcase by joining a livestream on YouTube.

Initial production estimates suggest that Samsung is heavily focusing on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The device is being produced at a scale over double that of the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus combined.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Medal

Source – Samsung Mobile US (X)

Galaxy S26 Ultra

While the S26 and S26 Plus feel like their predecessors, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is something different. Snapdragon exclusivity is also a plus point that would attract buyers of the Galaxy S26 series toward the Ultra variant.

Galaxy S26 Ultra debuts Privacy Display technology. Users can decide when the display or a specific area goes dim from settings. The result? People other than you, from side angles, couldn’t be able to see what’s happening on the screen.

Samsung has also replaced the 10-megapixel telephoto camera with a new sensor. The ISOCELL 3LD is a 12-megapixel solution, but Samsung split its usecase in two ways, 10-megapixel and 2-megapixel, intelligently.

Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to start at $1,299 in the US. Shoppers may miss the double storage benefit this year. Meanwhile, Korean users may be facing a steep price hike of around $70 on the Galaxy S26 series.

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Samsung’s Privacy Display innovation could power Apple devices

By:Yash
16 February 2026 at 06:10

Samsung is featuring Privacy Display is the signature feature of the Galaxy S26 series, and Apple is tipped to bring it by 2029.

Tipster IceUniverse, citing an Omdia report, revealed that Apple could bring Samsung-like Privacy Display technology to MacBook laptops by 2029.

Samsung first introduced an anti-reflective screen with the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Now, the company has another impressive solution, and this time it’s a combination of hardware and software.

Privacy Display

Samsung’s Privacy Display is powered by Flex Magic Pixel OLED technology. It’s incorporated with One UI 8.5 and Galaxy AI. The panel lets software adjust visibility from certain angles, the smartest solution for privacy and security.

It’s not a must-use. You can decide when to use and where to use. It has a handful of options for customization that ease its usability. When enabled, it dims visibility from side angles, while staying intact from the front.

Samsung Privacy Display Feature

Image posted by Ice Universe

Privacy Display on Apple devices

Recent iPhones adopted the anti-glare screen coating, and Apple is now expected to copy the Privacy Display innovation. It shows the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Privacy Screen is gaining industry-wide attention.

The idea is similar, but the approach isn’t. Samsung is debuting Privacy Display with the Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphone, while Apple plans to begin with MacBook laptops. It will be a breakthrough in laptop screen technologies.

Well, Apple’s taking three years for what Samsung’s bringing in 2026. The latter continues to innovate, and the former, as always, waits until the tech matures, and once it hits satisfactory maturity, it will be adopted.

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One UI 9 and Android 17 kicks off development

15 February 2026 at 18:32

Google has officially announced Android 17, marking the beginning of the new software development, and in parallel, Samsung has also started working on One UI 9.

A few days ago, a new software version appeared on Samsung’s server, later identified as One UI 9. Along with this identification, it’s found that the update is designed for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 foldable.

For those who are unaware, starting last year, Samsung began releasing the foldables with a major One UI version. Specifically, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 were the first to run Android 16 (One UI 8.0), which later expanded to the Galaxy S25 series through OTA update.

This year is gonna be the same, with the Galaxy Fold 8 and One UI 9 taking the center stage at the next Unpacked event. For now, Samsung hasn’t shared any official information on the One UI 9 launch date, but we do have Google’s update on Android 17.

Android 17

On February 13, Google officially announced Android 17’s first beta. The Android maker is focusing on improving privacy, security, and performance with this major release. Besides, the update will also optimize the camera and media features, new app updates, while providing some new capabilities in connectivity and smart connected devices.

One of the major changes in this update is shifting away from developer preview to a continuous canary channel. With that, Google will continue to release Android 17 updates through 2026, including new improvements.

According to the Android 17 schedule, the software will see beta releases from February to April 2026. That said, the final release should be somewhere in the second quarter of this year.

Android 17 Update Development Roadmap

As confirmed above, Google will conduct the Android 17 release through 2026, so there’s a possibility that the development run before launch could be shorter than previous Android versions. So, Samsung could launch the out-of-the-box One UI 9 with the Z Fold 8 in July (at the earliest) and expand this Android 17 update to older devices starting late Q3 and later.

We’ll keep you posted with new news on this matter.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra rebuilds 3x telephoto camera philosophy?

By:Yash
15 February 2026 at 16:01

Samsung is using a new 3x telephoto camera in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which appears to be an intelligent upgrade. The sensor is actually a 12-megapixel solution, but the device trimmed it down to 10-megapixel with reduced size.

Judging from the spec sheet proves that Samsung has downgraded the 3x telephoto camera of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, but the reality seems different. Some recent posts on X let us have an even better idea of the potential benefits.

Samsung did not shrink the camera, but changed the philosophy behind it. The new 3x module built around the ISOCELL 3LD is less about raw glass and more about high-speed silicon.

12MP to 10MP – Why couldn’t it be a downgrade?

The ISOCELL 3LD is natively a 12MP sensor with a 1/3.2 inch optical format. On paper, that sounds larger than the effective 1/3.94 inch number being circulated.

Samsung is only using the center 10 megapixels for the final image. When you crop to the middle portion of a sensor, the diagonal of the active area becomes smaller.

In optics, the diagonal defines the optical format. Shorter diagonal, “smaller” format number. That is how we land at 1/3.94 inch (via ErencanYılmaz), but this is not a lost area; it is a controlled area – as debunked by MyDaebakCafe.

Samsung still outputs a 12MP file to match the main and ultrawide cameras. Multi-frame fusion and intelligent upscaling bring resolution consistency across lenses.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 3x Telephoto Camera

Courtesy – Daebak 앤디

Integrated DRAM and AI ISP

The real upgrade is not the crop, it is the 3 stack architecture. The ISOCELL 3LD features integrated DRAM, which grabs the image before your subject moves. It reduces rolling shutter artifacts and freezes motion in 3x portraits.

Now pair that with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and its AI ISP. The sensor is engineered to feed massive amounts of data into the ISP in real time. A larger but slower sensor cannot compete if it cannot deliver data quickly enough for the ISP to chew on.

The phone can shift the crop window within that 12MP canvas while still delivering a clean 10MP base frame, later processed into a 12MP output for consistency. The result is gimbal-like stabilization at 3x without sacrificing 4k resolution.

This also contributes to better HDR stacking and near-zero shutter lag, since the sensor and DRAM can rapidly capture multiple frames before you even realize you tapped the shutter.

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Will Samsung share One UI 8.5 roadmap for old devices at Galaxy S26 event?

15 February 2026 at 11:55

Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S26 series on February 25. These phones will release the One UI 8.5 software out of the box, but the most important question is whether the company will share its expansion information for old Galaxy devices.

Samsung has been testing One UI 8.5 since December 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. The beta updates reveal graphical upgrades over One UI 8.0 and prior releases. The key improvements are quite visible, including optimized UI controls.

Importantly, the program is still open, with Samsung releasing beta 4, while beta 5 is reportedly in the schedule. It suggests that the program could run through February. However, Samsung could still do one thing, confirming the rollout with a solid roadmap for previously released Galaxy models.

Over the past three months, Samsung has been conducting internal One UI 8.5 build tests for various Galaxy devices, including the S24, S23, foldables, and mid-range phones.

This indicates a wide One UI 8.5 rollout preaprations but the speed of the current test campaign is slow. Therefore, we’re heading to the Unpacked February 2026 to know more about the software’s full release.

There’s a slight chance that we might get a hint of when the rollout may start for existing devices. However, previous Unpacked events, such as the S25 series and Z Fold 7 events, didn’t do justice to previous flagships. To be mentioned, these two have been the first to test the One UI 7.0 beta and 8.0 beta, respectively.

Instead, it took at least two months extra for Samsung to make these updates public after official announcements. We can’t expect the same for One UI 8.5, since it’s an incremental update and has the same base Android version as One UI 8.0.

So, there’s a chance that Samsung may surprise the Galaxy S25 series users with a new update and expand gradually to old devices. However, we’ll have to see how things unfold at Unpacked.

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Samsung One UI 9 (Android 17) eligible devices list 2026: Which Galaxy phones and tablets will get it?

15 February 2026 at 09:16

With the Android 17 Beta 1 officially out as of February 13, 2026, the tech world has shifted its focus to Samsung’s next major move: One UI 9. While we are still wrapping up the One UI 8.5 rollout, Samsung’s internal test servers are already showing early builds for its next-gen software.

Here’s the breakdown of what to expect from the One UI 9 rollout.

When will One UI 9 launch?

We expect One UI 9 to make its official debut around July 2026, likely alongside the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8.

However, if you own a recent flagship like the S26 Ultra or S25 series, you won’t have to wait until July to see the software. A public beta phase is rumored to kick off as early as May 2026. This gives users a chance to test Android 17’s new features before the stable build hits the masses.

The Eligibility List: Is your Galaxy safe?

The big question is always: “Will my phone get it?” While there is no “official” list from Samsung yet, the seven-year update promise makes the math simple.

The upcoming Galaxy S26 series will be the first to test One UI 9 beta this May. Joining it in the confirmed category are the Galaxy S25 and S24 series, both of which are in Samsung’s internal Android 17 testing.

The same logic applies to the foldable family. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 are already being used for internal One UI 9 “Now Nudge” testing, and the upcoming Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 (along with the rumored “Wide Fold”) will likely launch with this software out of the box this July.

For the A-series, the lines are a little blurrier but still promising for newer models. The Galaxy A56 and A36 are expected to stay in the loop, likely receiving the stable updates toward the end of 2026. Premium tablets; the Galaxy Tab S10 and S11 lineups are now on the same high-priority support track as the S-series phones, making them safe bets for One UI 9.

One surprising entry might be the Galaxy S23 series. Technically, the oldest active flagship will receive One UI 9 as its fourth and final major OS upgrade. If you are still rocking an S23, you have likely got one more big year left.

Now for the tough news. As of early February 2026, Samsung has officially moved the Galaxy S22 series and the Galaxy Z Fold 4 to a quarterly security schedule. These devices, along with the S21 FE and A53, are expected to stop at One UI 8.5.

If your device is on that list, it won’t stop working, but you will be missing out on the new AI-driven “Ask AI” browser tools and system-level resizability features that Android 17 is bringing to the table. If you are looking for a reason to trade in for the S26 this month, this might be it.

Samsung hasn’t confirmed if those older models will get a test of Android 17, so keep an eye on the Samsung Members app for a formal roadmap later this spring.

Important disclaimer:

This is not an official Samsung confirmation for One UI 9 eligibility. No device list has been published by Samsung for this specific update as of February 2026. Eligibility depends on how many major OS versions remain in each device’s promised cycle, regional variations, carrier involvement, and final decisions from Samsung. Policies can change, and some features (especially advanced Galaxy AI ones) may be limited to newer hardware. Always wait for Samsung’s official announcement, check website, newsroom, or the Samsung Members app for the real confirmed list when it drops. Don’t base any purchase or upgrade solely on this info.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra promo leak answers a big question

15 February 2026 at 08:23

A recent Galaxy S26 Ultra promo image leak has revealed the bigger picture of the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 and answered one of the most important questions from this lineup.

A few days ago, tipster Evan Blass shared press renders of the top-of-the-line S26 model. The phone shows refined contours, an optimized camera design, and four colors – black, cobalt violet, sky blue, and white. You may have noticed that the word “Titanium” is missing in these color names.

For example, the Galaxy S25 Ultra had titanium black, titanium gray, titanium silverblue, and titanium whitesilver, besides the online exclusive shades. The name is an identifier for the titanium versions.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

On the other hand, the render reveals a brighter color tone of the S26 Ultra than its predecessor. That suggests that the company is dropping the titanium frame this year.

Samsung started using titanium with the Galaxy S24 Ultra and retained this frame with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. These two phones have gathered praises around the globe, especially with last year’s release. This new design has improved design strength and reduced weight. Overall, contributing to a better in-hand experience.

Adding to this, Apple has also given up on titanium in favor of aerospace-grade aluminum to improve thermal conductivity, reduce weight, and optimize battery life. While Samsung remains conservative on the battery capacity, the S26 Ultra might bring better heat resistance with the next Ultra model.

Since Samsung follows the same trends, there’s a high chance that Aluminum to return with the Galaxy S26 series and titanium will be blacked out.

Besides the Galaxy S26 Ultra promo leak, Samsung hasn’t spilled any official word in this regard. However, the Unpacked is only two weeks away, with a clearer update.

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WhatsApp Beta previews status updates in the top app bar

15 February 2026 at 01:34

WhatsApp has pushed a new beta update for Android, version 2.26.6.9, through the Google Play Beta Program. This update doesn’t have big changes yet, but it looks at a new feature that will make it easier to see status updates.

The new feature under testing is showing status updates in the top app bar. Right now, if you want to see who posted a status, you have to tap the profile icon or scroll through all your chats.

With this new feature, status updates from people you chat with most will appear at the top of the screen in the Chats tab. This makes it quicker to see updates without leaving your chat list.

WhatsApp Status Update

Image via WABetaInfo

In addition to the top bar, scrolling down in the Chats tab will show a row of all contacts’ status updates. You can scroll horizontally to view them, just like in the old Status tab. Any contacts you have hidden will not appear here.

The feature is currently under development, so WhatsApp may make changes before it’s officially released. At the moment, this feature is only available in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.26.6.9. Regular users will not see it yet.

Once testing is done, WhatsApp plans to gradually roll out the feature to all users. This will allow people to quickly check status updates right from the Chats tab without extra steps. 

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Huge $255 off Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB model

15 February 2026 at 00:51

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your smartphone, Amazon has a deal you don’t want to miss. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is now available at a special discounted price, but for a limited time.

The 256GB variant of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, in the stylish Titanium Silverblue color, is originally priced at $1299.99. Right now, you can grab it for just $1045. That’s a big saving on one of Samsung’s most advanced smartphones.

This offer is exclusive to the Titanium Silverblue 256GB variant, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants huge storage for apps, photos, videos, and more.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Camera

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a powerful phone. It has a powerful Snapdragon processor for fast performance, a high-quality camera for clear photos and videos, and a bright, colorful screen. Its Titanium Silverblue color looks stylish and modern.

This is a good chance to get a premium phone at a lower price. You can get this phone on Amazon. Don’t wait too long, because this offer may not last. Grab your Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB Titanium Silverblue today and enjoy a top-quality phone at a great price.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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Samsung leads Southeast Asia with strong Galaxy A17 sales

14 February 2026 at 23:29

Samsung became the top smartphone brand in Southeast Asia again in 2025, according to new data from Omdia. This happened even though the overall market was slightly weaker than last year.

In total, 100 million smartphones were shipped in Southeast Asia in 2025. This was 1% lower than in 2024. Sales were slow in the first three quarters of the year. But in the last three months, the market improved. Shipments in the fourth quarter rose 2% compared with the same period last year. This helped Samsung finish the year strongly.

Samsung shipped 17.9 million phones in 2025. This was 5% more than the year before. The company captured 18% of the market, which makes it number one in the region. While some other brands saw their sales fall, Samsung was able to grow.

In the fourth quarter, Samsung also did very well. It shipped 4.2 million phones during that period, up 19% year-on-year. This gave it a 17% market share for the quarter.

Samsung Omdia Market Share

Image via Omdia

One main reason for Samsung’s success was its Galaxy A17 series. These phones offer better features than the earlier Galaxy A16 models but are still affordable. In Southeast Asia, most smartphones sold cost less than US $200. Because of this, strong low-cost models are very important.

Looking ahead to 2026, Samsung may face higher production costs. Prices for memory and storage parts are rising. Even so, Samsung’s strong product updates and good performance in late 2025 show it is in a good position to stay on top.

Google Search Top Stories Preferred Source

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