Samsung has started rolling out the December 2025 security update for four of its popular foldable smartphones – Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Galaxy Z Flip 4. The update is currently available for users in South Korea, and Samsung will expand the rollout to more countries in the coming days.
December 2025 security update for these Samsung foldable devices arrives with One UI build versions.
F946NKSS5FYL2 – Galaxy Z Fold 5
F731NKSS5FYL1 – Galaxy Z Flip 5
F936NKSS6IYL1 – Galaxy Z Fold 4
F721NKSS6IYL1 – Galaxy Z Flip 4
This update is mainly enhancing device security and improving overall system stability to ensure a smoother and more reliable user experience. It also fixes several issues that appeared in previous software.
December 2025 security patch delivers a total of 68 security fixes. Among these, 57 patches are provided by Google, addressing 6 critical vulnerabilities and 51 high-severity issues within the Android operating system. Additionally, Samsung has introduced 11 One UI specific security fixes for Galaxy devices
The update is based on Android 16 and One UI 8. Samsung has already confirmed that these foldable devices are eligible for the upcoming One UI 8.5 update.
Currently, ne UI 8.5 software is available in a beta testing phase, while the stable release is announced to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series. Following these flagships launch, Samsung will gradually extend the stable update to more supported devices.
Users can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings >> Software Update >> Download and Install on their Galaxy smartphones. As always, it is recommended to back up important data before installing any new software update.
Samsung has now rolled out the December 2025 security update for unlocked models of the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphones in the US. This update has already been released for carrier-locked variants and is now being rolled out to unlocked devices as well.
December 2025 security update is based on One UI 8 and Android 16. It is available for Galaxy S25 series devices that are not enrolled in the One UI 8.5 beta program in the US. Users who are running stable software can now install the update to enhance their device’s security and performance.
The company is rolling out the latest software update with system security improvements to keep your files and data safe on your phone. It also optimizes system stability to offer you uninterrupted and seamless functionality on your device.
Image via @JCarlosUnltd (X)
Official details reveal that the December 2025 security patch includes a total of 68 security fixes. Out of these, 57 patches are provided by Google for Android, addressing 6 critical and 51 high-level vulnerabilities. In addition, Samsung has included 11 One UI specific fixes, further enhancing the security of Galaxy devices.
Earlier this month, Samsung started the One UI 8.5 Beta Program for the Galaxy S25 series in select countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and South Korea. Eligible users in these countries can join the beta program to try new features and improvements before the official release.
For users who are not interested in testing beta software, the stable December 2025 security update is another option. To install the update, open Settings>> Software Update >> Download and install.
Samsung has officially started rolling out the One UI 8 Watch update for the Galaxy Watch 5 LTE in India. This update brings new features, better customization options, and improved security.
One UI 8 Watch update for Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 LTE comes with firmware version R925FXXU1DYK4 (via TarunVats) and has a download size of around 1.8GB. It also includes the October 2025 security patch, which helps protect the watch from security threats and improves overall system stability.
The Galaxy Watch 5 LTE receives the latest Wear OS along with One UI 8 Watch. It brings improvements for Tiles. Users can now create their own tiles by combining useful information like weather updates, calendar events, and reminders. You can add tiles by swiping up on the watch screen and tapping the “+” button.
Image via Tarunvats
The update also adds a new Low Light Mode for watch faces. This feature makes the screen easier on the eyes in dark environments. Users can choose between Auto, On, or Off options.
In addition, Samsung has improved Mindfulness features. New mood tracking and breathing exercises help users reduce stress and stay calm throughout the day.
To download the update, open the Galaxy Wearable app on your connected smartphone. Go to Watch settings, tap Watch software update, and select Download and install. Since the update is quite large, users are advised to download it using a stable Wi-Fi connection and make sure the watch has enough battery before starting the update process.
Samsung is rolling out new updates in December 2025 to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy Ring, as well as Calendar and Reminder apps.
The latest updates have started rolling out in different countries. The company has recently released updated One Hand Operation + and Theme Park apps with One UI 8.5 refresh.
Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Samsung’s bringing its December 2025 security patch to the Galaxy Tab S9 FE. As spotted by tipster @ya_sking12767, the update is available in South Korea and carries PDA build version ending with DYK1.
Galaxy Ring
Samsung also has a new firmware update for the Galaxy Ring. It’s a significant upgrade, which improves reliability and battery life. The OTA has been dropped in India and we may see an expansion to more markets soon.
Samsung Calendar
Users now have a viewing mode designed for larger screens, such as tablets or when using DeX on a desktop setup. This layout lets people see their full schedule alongside the calendar grid without constantly switching views.
Creating events feels more streamlined. On the schedule creation screen, adding reminders is now built in, so no extra steps are needed. For reminders, dates can be changed by dragging and dropping them directly on the calendar view.
The app also gets smarter with input suggestions, available in South Korea. In the quick add window, it recommends content based on what users enter frequently, which speeds up repeated tasks like meetings or appointments.
Other additions include an option to always show lunar dates, helpful for those following traditional calendars. For recurring events, there is now a way to set specific days where notifications are silenced, such as weekends or holidays.
Samsung Reminder
The new Reminder app update brings a redesigned layout. The main screen now prioritizes the to-do list and search function, placing them front and center for quicker access. Users no longer need to dig through menus to find what they need most.
A new “Try these out” section appears in the app, providing ready-made templates. These help people set up common reminders faster, such as grocery lists or daily routines, via BDTech.
The screen for adding a new reminder has also been overhauled. It offers a cleaner interface, and a dedicated voice input button lets users speak their reminders instead of typing them.
Samsung is reportedly raising the prices of its Galaxy A series phones in India. Most of the models are getting pricier by INR 1,000, while the Galaxy A56 hit hardest with a potential increase of INR 2,000 in the country.
Galaxy A phones are considered expensive in India, and this increment would slash the appeal of the smartphones. Samsung hasn’t officially disclosed this price revision, but the information came out from a trusted source.
Tipster AbhishekYadav claimed yesterday that Samsung Galaxy A series phones’ prices will be increased in India. The source also shared possible increments, including an INR 1,000 for most models and an INR 2,000 for the A56.
Earlier this year, Samsung released the Galaxy A56 in India in three different configurations.
The 8GB model costs INR 41,999 for 128GB storage and INR 44,999 for 256GB internal memory.
There’s a special variant that features 12GB of RAM and pairs 256GB of storage, costing INR 47,999.
At present, the smartphone is available at a lower price than the launch price.
Samsung usually slashes prices of its Galaxy A and M series phones to improve sales. This decision, however, opposite, seems to have been triggered by the fact that the costs of key hardware materials such as DRAM continue to rise.
The situation is expected to worsen in the following year. As the AP, camera, and DRAM prices see a static uptrend, smartphone makers may reduce the capacity of key solutions such as RAM, which would hit all categories.
Scoop: Starting Monday, Samsung India will increase prices of its Galaxy A-series smartphones by ₹1,000, while the Samsung Galaxy A56 will see a higher hike of ₹2,000.
Samsung has released an update for One UI 8.5 Theme Park, a key module in the Good Lock suite. The app is now at version 1.1.01.31 as of December 15, and the update arrives shortly after the One UI 8.5 beta program began last week.
The new version adds several features that make customization easier and more flexible.
Galaxy smartphone users can now mark favorite themes with a heart icon. Bookmarked themes can launch directly from a home screen shortcut. This saves time for those who switch between different looks often.
The icon editing interface of One UI 8.5 Theme Park has been improved. It is now divided into three sections: Shape, Effect, and Image. This separation makes it simpler to adjust each part without scrolling through long menus.
The update also introduces an emboss effect for icons and a monochrome option for images. These tools give more control over how icons appear. Other changes include an updated preview for quick panel icons.
This shows exactly how changes will look in the notification shade. A new setting allows control over home screen badge colors, but it requires One UI Home in One UI 8.5.
Many Good Lock modules need updates to work fully with the new One UI versions. The timing of this Theme Park update aligns with the beta program.
Samsung continues to expand customization options through Good Lock. Theme Park remains a popular tool for those who want a unique setup beyond stock themes.
To get the update, open Good Lock, go to the Theme Park module, and check for updates in the Galaxy Store.
Samsung releases Wear OS 6-based One UI 8 Watch update for Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic. It’s the last major upgrade for the company’s first-generation Wear OS smartwatch lineup.
Wear OS 6 update’s arrival wasn’t anticipated for the Galaxy Watch 4 models. These smartwatches have already completed their software updates support in August 2025; however, Samsung hasn’t ousted the devices.
While releasing the One UI 8 Watch, Samsung officially confirmed to provide the update to the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 series. As promised, the rollout has begun in 2025 itself, but the expansion will take some time.
Users of the Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic in South Korea can identify the latest update through the PDA version number JYK4. The firmware also brings newer security patches that elevate the reliability of the smartwatch.
The rollout has just started in Korea, with Global availability anticipated by the end of this month. As of December, Watch 4 series is still listed to receive new software updates, but it’s unlikely to last much longer after One UI 8 Watch.
With the One UI 8 Watch, Galaxy Watch 4 users receive Tile System, watchface enhancements, and Mindfulness as key features. Now Bar is also provided that Samsung hasn’t highlighted even though it’s a significant development.
One UI 8 Watch is based on Wear OS 6, which is another advantage. The new operating system improves support for third-party apps. You can expect a better experience and faster app launches due to core optimizations.
Samsung Wearable is the key to getting the latest update through your Galaxy phone. You can also trigger an update right from the watch. Swipe up and open Settings, followed by Software update and Download and install.
TSMC’s dominance in advanced chip manufacturing has been good for consistency, but it also comes with downsides. When one company controls most of the cutting-edge process nodes, chipmakers have fewer options, and that usually means higher prices.
TSMC has also revealed its plans to raise foundry prices over the next three years, which puts even more pressure on companies that rely on it.
So it’s not surprising that brands are looking elsewhere, and Samsung seems to be a safe bet for many. The company recently signed massive deals with Apple and Tesla, and a new report suggests AMD could be its next client.
AMD could use Samsung’s 2nm fabrication
According to reports from South Korea, AMD might use Samsung’s 2nm process for some future chips. In fact, Samsung chairman Lee Jae-yong is expected to meet AMD CEO Lisa Su to discuss the partnership.
This isn’t entirely out of the blue. Su has hinted before that AMD wants more manufacturing options, but Samsung’s past issues related to yields made it a hard sell. For a long time, Samsung’s leading-edge nodes didn’t inspire enough confidence for large, high-value orders.
That seems to be changing at 2nm. Samsung’s manufacturing process is now more stable, with its first 2nm chip receiving a positive response in terms of yield and performance, at least so far.
More importantly, AMD isn’t expected to jump in at the very start. Instead, the company is said to be targeting Samsung’s second-generation 2nm node, known as SF2P.
This is the higher-performance version of the process and comes with noticeable improvements. Samsung claims SF2P delivers better performance, significantly lower power consumption, and a smaller chip footprint compared to its first 2nm offering.
Mass production of SF2P is expected to begin in 2026, followed by an improved SF2P+ version in 2027. If talks go well, AMD and Samsung could finalize a deal as soon as next month. For Samsung, AMD would become another high-profile customer for its 2nm line after Tesla.
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According to a new report from Counterpoint Research, global shipments of foldable smartphone panels are expected to grow 46% year-on-year in 2026. The growth will be largely driven by Apple’s entry into the foldable market, as the company begins sourcing panels for its first foldable iPhone.
Image Credit: macrumors
Apple’s move is expected to reignite interest in the foldables category. Counterpoint believes this will lead to a sharp increase in demand across the supply chain and push average selling prices higher next year. The report states that Samsung Display will be the biggest winner, with its market share projected to reach 57% in 2026.
The research firm also expects the book-style foldable design to solidify its dominance. These devices feature large, inward-folding screens and are gaining popularity among consumers who want more productivity and bigger display areas.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 already showed signs of this trend. During the early sales window in the second half of 2025, the Fold model outsold the clamshell-style Flip model for the first time. Counterpoint noted a similar trend in China, where consumers are now prioritizing larger foldables despite higher prices.
On the supply side, panel makers are expected to experience uneven growth. BOE could see an 8% year-on-year decline in shipment share, while Visionox is forecast to grow 8%. TCL CSOT is expected to grow 47%, and Tianma may post a 580% year-on-year surge.
Counterpoint estimates that overall foldable smartphone shipments will grow 14% in 2025 and 38% in 2026. With Apple’s foldable iPhone on the horizon, the market is set for a significant boost in both volume and innovation.
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As tempting as the Galaxy S25 Ultra may look on paper, all signs point to its successor, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, being the real flagship to wait for. With launch expected in February 2026, the S26 Ultra is shaping up to be Samsung’s most refined and forward-thinking phone in years. The leaks make a compelling case for patience.
Refined Design
For the first time since the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung is rethinking the visual identity of its top-tier phone. The Galaxy S26 Ultra may ditch the signature floating camera rings in favor of a cleaner, pill-shaped camera island. This move aligns it more with the Galaxy Fold series. It could make the S26 Ultra feel like a more cohesive and premium device in hand, especially as it also gets rounder corners and a slimmer frame at just 7.9mm thick. The rear camera bump may grow in height, but that is likely to accommodate new sensors.
Samsung is also reportedly using a next-gen Gorilla Armor glass with improved anti-reflection and durability, along with a 15% larger vapor chamber for better cooling. These tweaks might not sound revolutionary, but they point to a phone that will feel cooler, sharper, and more balanced to use, especially during long gaming or video editing sessions.
Smarter Display
Leaked details suggest the S26 Ultra’s 6.9-inch AMOLED screen will be backed by a new CoE depolarizer layer that improves brightness and efficiency by letting more light through the panel. There is also talk of AI Magic Flex Screen technology, where AI dynamically adjusts pixel angles to create built-in privacy filters. Think of it as smart screen dimming that kicks in only when needed.
And yes, the S Pen is still here, though it is now more of a writing tool than a full-blown remote. Rumors suggest this might be the last Ultra phone to feature the built-in stylus before Samsung turns it into an external accessory.
Subtle But Crucial Camera Upgrades
Samsung isn’t doing a complete camera overhaul this year. The S26 Ultra will likely retain the 200MP ISOCELL HP2 main sensor but bump the aperture from f/1.7 to f/1.4 for significantly better low-light shots. There are whispers of improved coatings on the lenses and possibly a new 12MP telephoto camera, though you should not expect a zoom revolution.
The real game-changer could be Samsung’s AI-enhanced imaging. Plus, the debut of APV Codec, a rival to Apple ProRes, could turn the Ultra into a mobile filmmaking machine.
Hardware Improvements
Unlike the S25 Ultra, which came exclusively with a Snapdragon chip, the S26 Ultra could split between the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Samsung’s in-house Exynos 2600 depending on the region. Early benchmarks suggest both are powerful, with Samsung’s 2nm GAA Exynos chip possibly more efficient on paper.
Paired with up to 16GB RAM (no small commitment in today’s memory market), a massive vapor cooling system, and faster storage, the S26 Ultra should feel significantly more responsive, especially with heavy multitasking and Galaxy AI features that benefit from more memory headroom.
Faster Charging
Where the S25 Ultra capped out at 45W charging, the S26 Ultra is rumored to support up to 60W or even 65W. That would be a long overdue upgrade. If the leaks are accurate, Samsung is also embracing Qi2 wireless charging, enabling MagSafe-style accessories. You may lose reverse wireless charging, but for many, the trade-off will be worth it.
So Should You Wait?
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a great phone, but if you’re buying now, you’re likely committing to a device that could feel outdated in just a few months. With the Galaxy S26 Ultra poised to bring a sleeker body, more intelligent display, faster charging, enhanced AI software, and serious camera refinements, it makes sense to wait.
February 2026 isn’t that far away, and based on what we’ve seen so far, the wait will be worth it.
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Samsung AI Energy Mode in select washing machines has been verified by Carbon Trust Assurance for real-world carbon reduction. The validation comes from the Decarbonizing the Use-Phase of Connected Devices (DUCD) specification.
This is the very first product feature ever validated under this global standard, proving measurable GHG savings during actual consumer use.
Key verified results (July 2024–June 2025):
Total energy used via SmartThings: 12.28 GWh → 5,266 tCO2e emitted
Thanks to AI Energy Mode: 5.02 GWh saved → 2,084 tCO2e reduction
That’s equivalent to the daily electricity needs of ~169,000 US households. Samsung will showcase these energy-saving solutions at CES 2026. The company will also unveil new futuristic home appliances at the exhibition.
Samsung AI Energy Mode works when your appliance is paired through the SmartThings app. It’s available for free on the Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS devices. It offers a great experience, realizing Smart Home vision.
“At Samsung, we continue to design our products and services with environmental factors in mind,” said Jeong Seung Moon, Executive Vice President and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances (DA) Business at Samsung Electronics. “AI Energy Mode is a key example of such efforts, and with this verification recognizing its effectiveness, we will strive to further improve our products, features and services during their actual use.”
The DUCD (Decarbonizing the Use-Phase of Connected Devices) initiative is led by the Carbon Trust, a global climate consultancy, which partners with businesses, governments, and financial institutions to drive positive climate action.
Samsung Good Lock One Hand Operation + module is gaining One UI 8.5 Beta support. With the latest update, the app will now function perfectly on devices running One UI 8.5 Beta firmware, as it also includes bug fixes.
Good Lock One Hand Operation + is a pretty useful plugin, but Samsung fans were having issues with it on the One UI 8.5 Beta release. The software’s early access is available for the users of the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra.
Samsung is rolling out One Hand Operation + version 7.4.19.0. It brings support for the latest Beta software and provides bug fixes plus stability improvements. It’s a decent update that will ensure users make the most out of their devices.
Recently, Samsung revealed Home Up and QuickStar are being optimized for One UI 8.5. All the other apps and plugins are working as usual on the Beta firmware; however, users may face issues with LockStar and NotiStar.
One Hand Operation + wasn’t on the list of supported and unsupported plugins. Meanwhile, the rollout of the latest update makes the module function accurately. You can check the changelog below; download the app here.
Supports One UI 8.5 Beta
Bug fixes and stability improvements
If you already have the app installed, update it through the Galaxy Store. Open the app from the apps screen, hit Menu, followed by Updates. This page will let you know about the apps pending to be updated on your device.
Samsung is nourishing the entire ecosystem while testing the new software. Galaxy users have received the first Beta update on December 8th, while the next Beta update will likely arrive by the end of this month.
iPhone will mark its 20th anniversary in 2027, and Apple aims to launch true all-screen products. Long ago, the company requested its display partners, Samsung and LG, to develop the required solutions, mainly the display.
A new industry report sheds light on the fact that Samsung isn’t paying much attention to the Apple all-screen iPhone expected to arrive in 2027. LG Display seems way more active than Samsung when it comes to investment.
Strategic silence
LG Display is reportedly pouring 400 billion won (~ $270 million) into the panel production of Apple’s 2027 iPhone. The South Korean company is preparing to initiate preparations for mass-producing the OLED screen.
While LG is moving swiftly, Samsung’s silence speaks volumes. The company may have been prepping for investment or uncertain about the adoption of such screen technology by Apple in its 20th anniversary iPhone in 2027.
Focus elsewhere
Samsung is focusing on foldable iPhone display supplies. A recent report revealed that around 11 million panels could be supplied by Samsung Display, which the company’s spokesperson denied in a statement conveyed to us.
It’s said that Samsung Display is the sole supplier of foldable iPhone screens. The first product is coming next year, and it will sell like hotcakes. Samsung’s Z Fold 7 has hit a level of maturity, and Apple’s entry is a validation.
True all-screen iPhone
Apple wants Samsung and LG to develop a bezel-less screen. Not just bezels, but the OLED may not have any cutout for FaceID and selfie camera. Apple could bring an under-display selfie camera to the iPhone Pro models in 2027.
iPhone in 2027 could adopt four-sided bending technology. It may not just cover the front but all four edges of the border with the display. The solution doesn’t match the edge/curved display technology, which used earlier.
Producing a four-sided bending display requires extensive modification of existing lines. This is why the scale of LG’s investment is inevitably large. There are rumors that LG Display has been allocated about 10 lines by Apple.
The screen Apple wants requires a process to fold the panel circuit in the bezel area, and the Thin-Film Encapsulation (TFE), which blocks the ingress of moisture and oxygen into the OLED panel, must also be significantly thinner.
Samsung announced that the Samsung Wallet app’s Money and Points service has surpassed 1 million subscribers. The service has gained rapid growth following its debut in October this year; it all happened within two months.
At launch, Samsung presented Wallet Money and Points as “All-in-One Experience.” The service allows users to handle payment, charging, point accrual, and point usage within a single platform, making it receive great response.
Samsung specifically revealed that the “Gift” feature of the “Benefits Tab” is very trending among users in South Korea. To mark this major milestone, Samsung revealed plenty of benefits for users across the country.
Starting today, Samsung Wallet users who make payments with Money & Points will receive up to 10% of the payment amount. Users will also receive 1,000 points toward three Samsung Wallet Money payments and 2,000 points for five.
“Samsung Wallet Money & Points has significantly enhanced customer convenience and benefits by integrating digital payment and reward services,” said Vice President Chae Won-chul, Head of the Digital Wallet Team at Samsung Electronics MX Business. “We will continue to expand the Samsung Wallet ecosystem and persistently increase customer value by providing even more diverse and practical benefits in the future.”
Samsung Wallet Money & Points
Wallet Money
It’s a method of payment that doesn’t require a physical card. Users can easily use it by linking their existing bank account with Samsung Wallet Money.
Wallet Points
It is a rewards service where a certain amount is automatically collected as points upon each Samsung Wallet payment, and the points can be used as cash.
The benefits of these two features include:
An unlimited accrual structure with no limit on the accumulation amount.
The ability to pay, accrue, and use points at all offline card merchants.
Samsung signed massive deals with Apple and Tesla in the recent past, and AMD is likely to be the next significant 2nm foundry client victory.
A new report says that Samsung is in talks with AMD for contract manufacturing using its cutting-edge 2nm process. Exynos 2600 turns out to be a big success for Samsung Foundry in attracting major tech companies.
Exynos 2600, crafted for the Galaxy S26 series, is the first product fabricated using Samsung Foundry’s 2nm GAA process. The company would utilize the cutting-edge node for Tesla’s AI chips, and AMD is expected to join the list soon.
Samsung plans to offer the second-generation 2nm process (SF2P) for AMD chips. Industry insiders say it’s a more mature process than Exynos 2600. Meanwhile, future Exynos chips will be even more powerful and efficient.
DS Division could soon manufacture a trial production of AMD chips via a Multi-Project Wafer (MPW). The chip designer would assess whether the outcome meets the performance and efficiency required in products.
If the process secures greenlight, Samsung and AMD would finalize the contract next month. It’s going to be a significant win for Samsung Foundry as securing AMD as a contract production client will attract a billion-dollar income.
After Tesla and Apple, Samsung Foundry’s comeback was ensured. With AMD potentially joining the list, it would further solidify the company’s return in the market. Nvidia has also sealed deals with Samsung for HBM chips.
Samsung Foundry has a new thermal packaging solution called Heat Path Block (HPB), aiming to solve one of the most critical issues in advanced semiconductor design, heat buildup. The company is preparing to license this innovation to external clients, including Apple and Qualcomm, as it works to reestablish its position in the foundry market.
What is HPB and Why Does It Matter?
HPB is a copper-based thermal plate that sits directly above the application processor. In previous designs, Samsung placed the DRAM stack directly on top of the processor using Fan-Out Wafer-Level Packaging (FOWLP). The new Exynos 2600 design moves the DRAM to the side to make room for the HPB block, which now makes direct contact with the processor cores.
This repositioning improves heat transfer efficiency. Samsung claims a 30% reduction in average chip temperature compared to the previous generation. The thermal improvements are expected to help maintain peak performance in mobile processors during extended workloads, particularly in gaming and other intensive applications.
Rebuilding Trust with Apple and Qualcomm
Samsung plans to license HPB to potential clients, including Qualcomm and Apple. Both companies shifted major chip orders to TSMC in recent years. Qualcomm moved its Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Plus production in 2022, and Apple made the switch with the A10 back in 2016. Samsung now sees HPB as a potential draw to win back these customers.
The timing may work in Samsung’s favor. Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 reportedly consumes 19.5W under full load, significantly more than Apple’s A19 Pro at 12.1W. This high power draw results in greater heat generation, creating demand for better cooling at the chip level. Samsung’s HPB could directly address this concern.
Samsung’s own MX division, which buys Snapdragon chips for Galaxy devices, has already requested cooling performance at HPB levels. This request signals that the market is taking the technology seriously.
Strategic Timing with 2nm and GAA
HPB will debut with the Exynos 2600, which also serves as Samsung’s proof-of-concept for its 2nm chip manufacturing process. The company has already implemented gate-all-around (GAA) transistor architecture with its 3nm node and will continue using it at 2nm. TSMC, by contrast, plans to adopt GAA starting at the 2nm node.
Reports from South Korea suggest Samsung’s 2nm yield has reached between 55% and 60%. The company expects profitability in its foundry division by 2027, once its new Taylor, Texas fab ramps up. The fab is scheduled to begin operations in 2026 and will help double Samsung’s 2nm capacity by the end of that year.
Samsung’s early use of GAA and new thermal solutions could give it an edge as more chipmakers explore alternatives to TSMC.
The Bigger Picture
Samsung is using HPB as part of a broader strategy to revive its foundry business. The company has reorganized its packaging teams under the foundry and memory divisions to focus more closely on advanced chip integration.
Samsung has also taken a more flexible pricing approach to attract new clients. TSMC’s 2nm wafers are reportedly priced 50% higher than previous generations due to strong demand from clients like Nvidia and Apple. Samsung is using competitive pricing to secure contracts with smaller AI semiconductor firms such as Charbright, Anaplash, and South Korea’s DeepX.
In July, Samsung also secured a $16.5 billion deal to manufacture Tesla’s next-generation AI6 chips. The company is producing image sensors for Apple, ASICs for Chinese mining companies, and smartphone APs for its System LSI division. These contracts signal early momentum as Samsung works to diversify its client base.
Samsung is betting that HPB, combined with its 2nm and GAA advancements, will help close the gap with TSMC and restore confidence in its advanced nodes. If the Exynos 2600 performs well, it could mark a turning point in Samsung’s efforts to regain share in the global foundry market.
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Phones in 2026 are certain to have a price rise due to the increasing cost of memory modules. We are already seeing its effects with recent flagship launches like the iQOO 15, which saw a whopping 33% price increase over its predecessor in India.
Raising prices, however, won’t work in all markets. In a price-sensitive economy like India, it would be harder for brands to justify higher costs when the actual device might not bring any major improvements.
A new leak suggests manufacturers may instead look for savings elsewhere, by shipping phones with less RAM, that is.
16GB RAM might go extinct in 2026
According to a tipster on Naver, smartphones equipped with 16GB of RAM could nearly go extinct in 2026, except for some manufacturer-specific models.
The source also claims that 4GB RAM models may become far more common than they are today. More concerning, some phones could still end up costing more than current models despite being equipped with less memory.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra mockup (modified image of S25 Ultra)
The leak goes on to say that smartphones with 12GB of RAM could be reduced by 40% and will be replaced by 6GB/8GB models. Meanwhile, 8GB models could see a 50% reduction and be replaced by 4GB/6GB variants.
Much of this pressure comes from the growing demand for memory across multiple industries. This has created a supply crunch that consumers are now starting to feel. And it may not be limited to new and upcoming phones.
A recent report suggests that Samsung is also planning to hike prices for its existing Galaxy phones in India.
The memory crunch is also spilling over into the PC market. According to a TrendForce report, major PC brands like Dell and Lenovo have begun notifying customers about upcoming price hikes. Dell, in particular, is expected to raise PC prices by 15 to 20 percent.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Samsung’s Galaxy A-series phones could soon get a little more expensive in India. According to information shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X, Samsung is planning a price hike across its Galaxy A lineup, with the changes expected to take effect starting Monday.
As per the tip, Samsung India will increase the prices of most Galaxy A-series smartphones by ₹1,000. The Galaxy A56, however, is set to see a larger bump, with its price rising by ₹2,000.
Scoop: Starting Monday, Samsung India will increase prices of its Galaxy A-series smartphones by ₹1,000, while the Samsung Galaxy A56 will see a higher hike of ₹2,000.
It’s not surprising given the current market conditions
Samsung is expected to launch new Galaxy A-series phones next month, including the Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57. Price adjustments just ahead of new launches aren’t unusual, but they typically make older models more affordable to make way for the new ones.
This time, though, it’s going in the opposite direction. And if you guessed it, yes, the primary reason behind the increase is rising memory costs.
The global semiconductor market is currently dealing with a memory shortage, largely driven by soaring demand for High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) and DDR5 DRAM used in AI data centers. As big tech companies are pouring money into AI infrastructure, smartphone makers are left competing for the same memory components at higher prices.
Sasmsung Galaxy A56 (left) and Galaxy A36 (right)_
We’ve already seen the impact of this trend at the high end of the market. Recent flagship launches such as the OnePlus 15, Vivo X300, and iQOO 15 arrived with noticeably higher price tags compared to their predecessors.
The iQOO 15, in particular, saw the maximum price rise of 33% over its predecessor. What’s changing now is that these cost pressures are starting to trickle down to midrange phones as well.
What’s more concerning is that this situation doesn’t appear to be temporary. Industry expectations suggest that memory prices are unlikely to cool down in 2026. If that happens, phones launching next year, be it budget, midrange, or premium, could all see further price increases.
In fact, executives from multiple smartphone brands like Realme and CMF have already acknowledged that price hikes are becoming unavoidable.
If 2024 was a year of incremental updates, 2025 was the year the foldable form factor truly matured. We moved past the era of engineering curiosity and fragility into a time where these devices stood confidently alongside and often surpassed traditional flagship phones.
From Samsung’s meticulous refinement of its ecosystem to Huawei and Oppo pushing the physical limits of camera optics and hinge mechanics, this year’s lineup proved that foldables are no longer just experiments. They are now among the very best smartphones money can buy.
Here are our picks for the best foldable smartphones of 2025.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Samsung’s seventh-generation book-style foldable feels like the device the series was always destined to be. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 eliminates previous compromises, most notably in its weight; at just 215g, it is the lightest Fold yet, thanks to a new titanium-backed display and slimmer FlexHinge. The viewing experience has been significantly upgraded with an 8-inch main display featuring thinner bezels and the removal of the under-display camera, which has been swapped for a sharper 10MP sensor.
However, the headline feature is the camera system. For the first time, Samsung has integrated a 200MP flagship-grade sensor, allowing the Fold 7 to capture images that rival the best slab phones on the market. On the software front, the device acts as a premier mobile workstation. Running One UI 8 and Android 16, it leverages Galaxy AI for seamless multitasking, such as side-by-side editing and context-aware interactions with Gemini Live.
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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Samsung also elevated its Flip line this year, turning the clamshell form factor into a productivity tool. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 introduced the biggest and brightest cover screen ever seen on the series, a 4.1-inch FlexWindow that genuinely feels like a standalone phone. This expanded real estate allows users to reply to messages, run full apps, or interact with Gemini Live without ever needing to unfold the device.
Beyond the screen, the Flip 7 is a powerhouse in its own right. It is the first in the series to support Samsung DeX, allowing it to double as a desktop computer, and it packs a larger 4300mAh battery despite being slimmer than ever. This combination of portability and power ensures that the Flip 7 offers a premium flagship experience that goes far beyond simple nostalgia.
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Huawei Mate X7
While others focused on refinement, Huawei chose to experiment with aggressive hardware. The Mate X7 turned heads with its unique Yun Brocade Collector’s Edition design, but it is the camera system that truly sets it apart. It features a 50MP main sensor with a variable aperture, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom, and Huawei’s Red Maple color sensor, all of which combine to deliver stunning results in any lighting condition.
The display technology is equally impressive, with a foldable OLED screen that reaches a peak brightness of 2500 nits. Running on HarmonyOS, the device makes excellent use of this extra screen real estate with improved multitasking features and satellite messaging support. To top it off, the 5600mAh battery and titanium-reinforced body make the Mate X7 one of the most rugged and longest-lasting foldables released this year.
If Samsung and Huawei aimed for raw performance and camera versatility, the Find N5 focused on ergonomic perfection. This was arguably the most comfortable and polished foldable to hold in 2025, featuring a crease so shallow it is barely noticeable. This is made possible by an aerospace-grade titanium hinge that is both lighter and tougher than anything Oppo has shipped before.
The experience is just as premium on the inside. The 8.12-inch LTPO inner display supports stylus input, while the outer display has been upgraded for higher brightness. The Hasselblad-powered triple camera system, which includes a 50MP periscope lens and 6x optical zoom, holds its own in low-light and portrait scenarios. Furthermore, Oppo addressed battery anxiety by packing a massive 5600mAh silicon-carbon battery into the device, complete with fast wired and wireless charging, features its predecessor sorely lacked.
Huawei’s Pura X took the idea of a flip phone and flipped expectations. The device features a unique 6.3-inch inner display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, a rarity in foldables, while the 3.5-inch outer OLED is a perfect square, giving the phone a distinctive, mirror-like aesthetic. Both screens are top-tier, supporting high-frequency PWM dimming and full 120Hz LTPO refresh rates.
Unlike many flips that compromise on cameras, the Pura X is a serious imaging device. It houses a 50MP RYYB main camera, a 40MP ultra-wide, and a 3.5x telephoto lens, offering flagship versatility in a playful form factor. When you add in IPX8 water resistance, satellite communication support, and a 4720mAh battery with 66W wired charging, the Pura X stands out as a flip phone that feels like a true flagship.
Samsung’s first tri-fold smartphone is making headlines—but not just for its ambitious design. New repair pricing details suggest that fixing the Galaxy Z TriFold’s main display could cost nearly as much as buying a brand-new Galaxy S25 Ultra outright.
The Galaxy Z TriFold launched last month as Samsung’s boldest foldable yet, introducing a complex tri-folding screen that expands into a tablet-like canvas. Interest has been intense: the device reportedly sold out within minutes of becoming available, despite extremely limited stock. But that flexible inner screen comes with a downside if anything goes wrong.
According to a recent report, replacing the outer display will cost between KRW 137,000 and KRW 226,000 (roughly $90–$150), which is broadly in line with the Z Fold 7. The real shock comes from the inner tri-folding panel. Replacing that display could set owners back anywhere from KRW 1,657,500 to KRW 1,834,500 (about $1,120–$1,240), depending on the extent of the repair.
To put that into perspective, Samsung’s own Galaxy S25 Ultra—the company’s top-tier bar-style flagship—currently retails in South Korea for around KRW 1,673,100. In other words, repairing the TriFold’s main screen could cost as much as, or even more than, buying an entirely new S25 Ultra.
The report also notes that availability is extremely limited. Samsung is said to be stocking just 15 to 30 units per major store in South Korea, with only around 700 units available nationwide so far. Total sales are reportedly expected to reach between 2,500 and 5,000 units by early next year, suggesting this is very much a controlled, experimental release.
It’s worth stressing that these details come from an unverified blog report, so final pricing could change. Still, if accurate, they underline a familiar truth about foldables—especially bleeding-edge ones. The Galaxy Z TriFold may represent the future of smartphones, but repairing that future won’t come cheap.
As Holidays are coming, there are many deals out in the market. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 returns to post-Black Friday pricing on the compact 40mm model, ideal for everyday wear with its lightweight design available for only $249. That is $100 off from its standard pricing and a matching record low.
Samsung’s Newest smartwatch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, comes with Wear OS 6 and One UI 8 Watch. It also features a wrist Gemini support and a long list of added functions. Galaxy Watch 8 comes with an ergonomic, versatile, & ultra-sleek (8.6mm slim-fit) design that’s built to last with Sapphire glass and Armor Aluminum. It features a Super AMOLED display with up to 3000 nits of brightness is easy to read even is bright light. The smartwatch also has features, such as a Running Coach, Antioxidant Index, Vascular Load, and more, making it Samsung’s most sophisticated wearable yet.
For this generation, Samsung has redesigned the strap system, so standard watch bands are no longer compatible. The updated bands are designed to help the watch hug your wrist more closely instead of lying flat. And users can’t agree more. Complaints flooded social media. Some of them were claiming the comfort of the band is far better than the flagship Galaxy Watch Ultra.
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Despite packing a larger battery, Samsung still rates the Galaxy Watch 8 for around two days of use on a full charge. However, the company notes these battery estimates are intentionally conservative. So many users can expect to squeeze out even longer runtimes in daily use.
The holiday season is around the corner, and this is the right time to get a valuable gift for your loved ones. If you are planning to gift a smartwatch or get one for yourself, then the Galaxy Watch 8 is a great choice. For more deals, just visit our dedicated deals section here on Gizmochina.
Last week, Samsung opened the One UI 8.5 Beta Program and initiated the December patch rollout. Samsung is expected to continue the pace of new software update rollout for Galaxy users in Week 3 of December 2025.
New Samsung software updates expected in December Week 3:
One UI 8.5
Samsung has started the development of the second One UI 8.5 Beta update. The target devices are the S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra. Rumors say the Beta 2 would arrive on December 22, but Samsung may also drop it early.
The first One UI 8.5 Beta was dropped on December 8. The second update’s rollout will also mark its expansion to India and Poland. The Beta Program is currently limited to Germany, South Korea, the UK, and the US.
One UI 8
Samsung could expand its One UI 8-based December security patch. Devices highly likely to get the software are the S24, S23, and S22 series. The rollout will take place in the Global market as the initial release has already happened.
More Samsung flagship, mid-range and budget devices will receive the latest security patch update.
Global Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro should start receiving the Stable One UI 8 Watch update. Samsung’s Wear OS 6-based upgrade has been rolled out in South Korea and the US in the past couple of days.
Users of the Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are also waiting for the One UI 8 Watch update.
Galaxy Z TriFold
On December 12, Samsung opened the first sale of the Galaxy Z TriFold in South Korea. It’s coming to the US early next year, and the response would be massive.
The first TriFold is gaining striking traction in Samsung’s home ground. Minutes after opening the first sale, the company went out of stock and put a notice on the official website.
Samsung has pushed the December 2025 security update for 7 popular Galaxy flagship smartphones in the US. These devices include Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, S25 FE, S25 Edge, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and Galaxy Z Flip 7. This update improves system security and stability for a better Galaxy experience.
December 2025 security update for these devices is live in the US on the Verizon network carrier, and other carriers could get it in the coming days. Users of these 7 Galaxy devices can verify the latest update via the One UI build versions given below.
F966USQS6AYKF – Galaxy Z Fold 7
F766USQS6AYKF – Galaxy Z Flip 7
S931USQS7BYJ9 – Galaxy S25
S936USQS7BYJ9 – Galaxy S25 Plus
S938USQS7BYJ9 – Galaxy S25 Ultra
S937USQS4BYJ9 – Galaxy S25 Edge
S731USQS3AYK1 – Galaxy S25 FE
Source – Samsung Mobile Press
Samsung’s December update fixes plenty of issues. The company specifically highlighted 68 CVE and SVE items earlier this month. It gives the Android OS and One UI skin a top-notch level of security and privacy.
This update is based on Android 16 and One UI 8. However, these devices will also get the One UI 8.5 update. Recently, Samsung rolled out the One UI 8.5 Beta update for the Galaxy S25 series in limited countries and could expand to more Galaxy devices, including Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7, soon.
At the moment, you can install the latest security patch with some easy steps and make your device ready for future updates. For that, visit Settings >> Software Updates >> Download and install.
Samsung Galaxy users may soon get a helpful new feature, Motion Assist, with One UI 9. One UI 9 will be based on Android 17, and Google is reportedly working on this feature to make using phones in moving vehicles easier and more comfortable.
Several people feel dizzy or get headaches while travelling in cars, buses, or trains and using a phone. Motion sickness occurs because your eyes perceive a still screen while your body senses movement.
To resolve this issue, Google is developing a Motion Assist feature, which displays small dots on the screen that move in sync with the vehicle’s motion. These dots use the phone’s motion sensors to match to reduce motion sickness.
The feature has been spotted by Assemble Debug, who found that Motion Assist, also called Motion Cues, already exists inside Google Play Services but is not yet active. Currently, this feature cannot appear over the lock screen, notifications, or Quick Settings due to Android’s overlay limits.
Image via Android Authority
Android 17 update might make these appear dots safely on all parts of the screen. Google might make it a part of the system rather than a separate app. It could also work with Transiting mode, which changes phone settings automatically while commuting.
Based on Android 17, Samsung’s One UI 9 is also expected to bring the Motion Assist feature to Galaxy devices. Stay tuned for more information.
Samsung is currently preparing to launch its next Galaxy S series, the Galaxy S26. We have already seen several leaks, renders, and rumors about this flagship series. Now, new information hints that the Samsung Galaxy S26 series is moving closer to launch.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphone has been spotted (via tipster Mohammed Khatri) on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) database. The smartphone appears with the model number SM-S948B/DS, which confirms that Samsung is planning to launch the Galaxy S26 series in India soon.
BIS certification is required for smartphones to be sold in India. This listing usually appears months before launch and confirms that the device is planned for the Indian market. In addition to this, the Galaxy S26 series has already been spotted on several other certification platforms.
Image via Mohammed_K_2010
Aside from this, Samsung confirmed to launch the Galaxy S26 series with stable One UI 8.5 next year. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly feature a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Processor, 60W wired fast charging, improved camera, new features, and more.
Some reports suggest that Samsung may launch the Galaxy S26 series in February 2026. However, Samsung hasn’t confirmed anything yet. As the new year gets closer, more details about the Galaxy S26 series are likely to be revealed. Stay tuned.
Samsung is testing One UI 8.5 Alpha and Beta for various phones. On December 8, Samsung officially launched the Public Beta Program for the Galaxy S25 series, ahead of the official update rollout is likely to start in 2Q25.
One UI 8.5 testing isn’t just underway but also expanding its scope to even more Samsung phones. The company has already joined a number of Galaxy devices to the internal testing, regardless of the plans for the Beta rollout.
The testing is still underway, and we will see more changes and tweaks throughout the Program. Samsung may also invite even more devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 as well as the S24 series, to test the software.
Devices in Public Beta
The Public Beta testing is currently limited to the Galaxy S25 series. However, the S25 Edge and S25 FE are not eligible for the Beta Program.
Galaxy S25, S25 Plus and S25 Ultra
Devices in Internet ‘Alpha’
While Public Beta has very limited availability, the internal testing has been expanded to plenty of newer and older Samsung phones.
Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7
Galaxy S25 Edge
Galaxy S24, S24 Plus and S24 Ultra
Galaxy S24 FE
Galaxy S23, S23 Plus and S23 Ultra
Galaxy A17
Galaxy A36
Galaxy A56
Apart from this, Samsung is also working on One UI 8.5 firmware for the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, A37, and A57 smartphones.
The list of devices is expected to grow.
Image – SammyFans
Samsung’s One UI 8.5 is based on Android 16 (One UI 8). It comes with a user interface redesign and applies blur across various aspects. The majority of stock apps have also received dynamic tweaks that make the UI beautiful.
Samsung reportedly showcased a passport-style foldable phone design in a survey. It turns out the company is exploring a new design language for its future foldables as it prepares to expand its product portfolio in the years ahead.
Korean media revealed Samsung’s plans to bring a wide-opening foldable phone in 2026. Later, we’ve seen the GSMA database listing of the alleged device. Now, some concept images have emerged online with a new design.
Samsung showcased a passport-like foldable phone concept in a survey, SammyGuru reports. The outlet has also published a handful of images of the device, which looks a lot like the OG Pixel Fold but has no such thick bezels.
The Korean tech giant may have been pursuing consumer opinion on this new design.
The device mimics the design and dimensions of passports. Folded, it offers a pretty useful screen, which turns almost square when unfolded. It’s a major difference from the existing Galaxy Z Fold design, which doesn’t unfold such wide.
Thanks to its already wide cover screen, the phone turns into a tablet when unfolded. It’s a similar design Apple has been considering for its foldable iPhone. Samsung is seemingly preparing an additional model as an iPhone rival in 2026.
The survey just showcased images of a concept device. Users were not informed about specific details such as display size and dimensions. However, reports suggest that the cover screen could be 18:9 folded and 18:18 unfolded.
Samsung has recently released its first Galaxy TriFold phone, which has gone out of stock in minutes. The availability is currently limited to South Korea, while an expansion to some more countries will take place sequentially.
Samsung impressed once again with its near-monopoly performance in the Q3 2025 South Korea smartphone market. The company seized an almost-entire portion of shipments, which Apple wasn’t able to face with its slice.
According to Counterpoint Research (via Chosun), Samsung surpassed an 80% market share in South Korea for the 2nd time in a row.
The report reveals that the Korean tech giant flagged an impressive 81 percent share in the third quarter. The company’s market share has increased from 80 percent in the same quarter of the previous year.
While Samsung improved its tally YoY, it faced a 3 percent decline over the second quarter. During the April-June period, the company’s shipments were 84 percent, while the July-September period slipped to 81 percent.
On the other hand, Apple’s market share in the same period was 18 percent. The iPhone maker reported a decline of 1 percent YoY; however, it grew 2 percent QoQ.
Decisive factors
Samsung maintained its growth momentum driven by the success of the Galaxy Fold 7 and sustained demand for mid-to-low-end models like the Galaxy A36, which was released in the second quarter of this year.
Apple’s sales increased due to upgrades in the iPhone 17 series. Counterpoint analysts predict that the gap between Apple and Samsung will narrow in the fourth quarter, reflecting iPhone 17 sales released this September.
Apart from this, the report highlights Xiaomi’s efforts in South Korea. The Chinese vendor opened official stores at Guui Station and Magoknaru Station in September, but is still struggling to establish a presence in the market.
Samsung is positioning the Exynos 2600 as more than the main chipset for its next flagship phones. The chip also acts as Samsung’s first large-scale showcase of its 2nm process, which the company hopes will help bring major customers back to its foundry business. After struggling to win meaningful 3nm orders, Samsung is relying on the Exynos 2600 to prove that its new node can deliver stable performance and better efficiency.
A new report from South Korea says Samsung has introduced a cooling method for the Exynos 2600 that is drawing interest from Apple and Qualcomm. Both companies have relied on TSMC for their recent mobile and desktop chips, largely because Samsung’s previous flagship chipsets faced consistent thermal and stability issues. Samsung now claims it has addressed those concerns with a packaging method called Heat Path Block technology.
The Heat Path Block design uses a copper heatsink placed directly on top of the mobile AP. To enable this layout, Samsung moved the DRAM to the side of the processor instead of stacking it above the die. This gives the heatsink direct contact with the main chip, allowing heat to move out of the package more quickly. According to the report, internal testing shows up to a 30 percent improvement in thermals compared to the previous Exynos generation.
Samsung missed most of the 3nm demand because its early process did not inspire confidence among top-tier customers. The company is now more cautious with its 2nm rollout but believes this node has a better chance at competing with TSMC. Samsung expects the Exynos 2600 to act as the first real demonstration of what its 2nm line can achieve in a consumer device.
If the Exynos 2600 delivers the thermal and performance gains that Samsung is targeting, it could help the company rebuild trust with major chip designers. That outcome would be important for Samsung as it looks to secure future 2nm orders and re-establish itself as a competitive alternative to TSMC in advanced chip manufacturing.
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The Galaxy S26 series is at the centre of a developing supply situation that has drawn attention across the industry. A report from South Korea has revealed that Samsung is preparing for high-level discussions with Micron as it aims to secure stable mobile DRAM for its upcoming flagship. With the smartphone’s launch window nearing, rising memory prices and unsettled contracts have triggered a series of urgent developments that set the tone for what follows.
Samsung seeks emergency talks at CES 2026
TM Roh
TM Roh, who heads Samsung’s DX division, is reportedly scheduled to meet Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra on the opening day of CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Such meetings are rarely arranged during the event, but the growing strain on LPDDR5X supply appears to have made this one unavoidable.
Industry insiders say the price surge has been unusually steep. LPDDR5X 12GB modules that were trading at around 30 dollars earlier this year have reportedly jumped to nearly 70 dollars by late November, creating uncertainty in Samsung’s negotiations with both its DS division and Micro. The two suppliers have yet to finalize terms for the Galaxy S26, leaving the smartphone unit under pressure as it approaches mass production deadlines.
Several Korean reports note that memory manufacturers prefer quarterly supply agreements during price upswings rather than longer commitments. This has added another layer of difficulty for Samsung’s mobile division, which is already dealing with increased expenditure on application processors. The situation has elevated Micron’s importance in Samsung’s flagship portfolio, especially after the company supplied a large share of mobile DRAM for the Galaxy S25 series.
New DRAM technologies and internal challenges
Samsung’s DS unit is simultaneously advancing its next-generation LPDDR6 technology, expected to offer higher bandwidth and improved efficiency. Early signs suggest the company may showcase it at CES 2026, although commercial deployment could arrive later. Meanwhile, internal adoption of the Exynos 2600 remains limited, further tightening the mobile division’s budget as it negotiates memory procurement.
With the Galaxy S26 set to debut in early 2026, the outcome of TM Roh’s CES meeting may influence how smoothly Samsung can secure DRAM supply for its next flagship. While the company has declined to comment on its memory plans, the urgency around negotiations underscores the broader industry pressure caused by rising demand and limited production capacity.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has been certified through Singapore’s IMDA, with the listing revealing connectivity details. The smartphone has cleared another certification hurdle, paving its way for launch in Southeast Asia.
According to the info, Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra supports 5G connectivity. It has all the necessary network hardware, including WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, and UWB. These specs back different features like internet and payments.
The model number SM-S948B/DS also confirms that the Asian version supports dual SIM. However, specific details about the 5G cellular capabilities, such as supported bands, haven’t been listed by IMDA on the website.
WiFi and Bluetooth are pretty much important for internet and data transfers. Modern file sharing tools leverage WiFi and Bluetooth to establish connections between devices and ensure seamless sharing of data and files.
Chips like NFC and UWB are important for digital payments and identification. Samsung Wallet makes use of these technologies to offer contactless payments through NFC and digital keys through UWB (ultra-wide band).
Via – TheTechOutlookEarlier, the device appeared on the FCC database, which confirmed a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. It also surfaced on China’s 3C, confirming its 60W charging support and a model with satellite connectivity features.
Galaxy S26 Ultra exclusively uses the Snapdragon chip, while the other two hand some share to Exynos. Samsung has just unveiled Exynos 2600’s Heat Path Block technology, which attracted Apple and Qualcomm.
Samsung Unpacked may be held in February in San Francisco. At the event, the company will unveil Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra. Their software, the One UI 8.5, is already available for Beta testing in select countries.
Samsung One UI 8.5 expands the application of dynamic colors to the lock screen PIN interface. This beautiful visual remamp has arrived with the first Beta update that Samsung distributed on December 8th.
Lock screen PIN interface now features dynamic colors in One UI 8.5, via SMASithick. The numeric keypad that appears for the entry of PIN now displays colorful buttons. The colors aren’t just random but derived from wallpaper.
Based on the lock screen wallpaper, the PIN screen keypad adopts gradient colors. The blur is still there to separate the keys from the background. The new color engine also covers the Emergency call button at the bottom.
The new design language is a major improvement over the blurred buttons in One UI 8. Samsung has turned the solid colored keys into dynamic ones. It offers a clean and visually pleasing appearance to the lock screen.
It’s just an initial version that can’t be considered final. Samsung might make tweaks to further refine the new design. The changes will be applied keeping in mind they shouldn’t consume a significant portion of the battery.
It’s just an example; Samsung has made tons of related changes across the UI. One UI 8.5 feels like a major design upgrade over One UI 8. It adopts Glass UI, a floating navigation bar, redesigned apps, and colorful backgrounds.
Galaxy S25 users can get it early, as the official rollout is expected in Q2 2026. Samsung launched the Beta Program in four countries (Germany, Korea, the UK, and the US), with India and Poland joining later this month.
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