Samsung smartphone users may have a reason to celebrate this year. New leaks suggest that the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra could be priced lower than its predecessor. At the same time, other flagship models in the Galaxy S26 series may see a price increase. This unexpected pricing shift has sparked fresh discussion among premium smartphone buyers.
The South Korean technology giant Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S26 series next month. Ahead of the official announcement, several reports have revealed details about the company’s revised pricing strategy. These leaks indicate a major change in how Samsung plans to position its flagship lineup in 2026.
Leaks Hint at Major Pricing Changes
According to information shared by tipster Roland Quandt and Winfuture, Samsung may increase prices for most Galaxy S26 models. However, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could become more affordable compared to last year. This move appears unusual, especially as component costs continue rising globally.
For months, reports suggested that Galaxy S26 series prices would increase. Rising costs of RAM and flash storage were cited as major reasons. Smartphone manufacturing components have become more expensive, directly impacting final retail prices. Despite this trend, Samsung seems ready to adjust its premium pricing approach.
Component Costs Continue to Rise
The smartphone industry has faced consistent cost pressure. Memory components like RAM and internal storage have seen price hikes. These increases affect flagship devices more, due to higher specifications. Samsung is reportedly responding by adjusting base configurations and pricing tiers.
Manufacturers often pass these costs to consumers. Samsung is expected to follow this pattern for most S26 models. However, the Ultra variant may follow a different strategy this year.
Galaxy S26 Base Model May See Price Hike
Leaks suggest Samsung may discontinue the 128GB base storage option entirely. The company could introduce 256GB as the new base variant. This change alone increases production costs.
According to reports, the Galaxy S26 base model may be priced at 11,990 SEK. This converts to roughly 1,135 euros. In Indian currency, this is close to one lakh rupees. This price is around 200 euros higher than last year’s base model.
Such an increase reflects higher storage standards and rising component expenses. Samsung may justify this by offering better default specifications.
Galaxy S26 Plus Expected to Cost More
The Galaxy S26 Plus is also expected to receive a noticeable price hike. Leaks suggest the 256GB base variant could cost 14,490 SEK. This equals approximately 1,372 euros. Indian buyers may see a price close to 1.2 lakh rupees.
Reports also indicate that the 512GB Galaxy S26 Plus may be significantly costlier. It could be around 230 euros more expensive than the previous Galaxy S25 Plus variant. This translates to an increase of nearly 20,000 to 21,000 rupees.
This pricing reflects Samsung’s focus on premium positioning for mid-tier flagship models.
Galaxy S26 Ultra May Become Cheaper
The most surprising leak concerns the Galaxy S26 Ultra pricing. Samsung may reduce the entry price of its most premium flagship. This could help attract buyers comparing other high-end smartphones.
According to leaked details, the Galaxy S26 Ultra may start at 16,990 SEK. This equals around 1,609 euros. In Indian currency, this is close to 1.4 lakh rupees.
For comparison, the Galaxy S25 Ultra launched at 1,703 euros last year. This suggests a possible price reduction of 94 euros. Indian users could see a cut of around 10,300 rupees.
Strategic Shift for Premium Buyers
Samsung may be adjusting Ultra pricing to increase competitiveness. The premium smartphone market has become more crowded. Several brands now offer flagship features at aggressive prices.
Lowering the Ultra’s entry price could attract users seeking top-tier specifications. This strategy may also offset higher prices for other Galaxy S26 models.
Industry watchers believe Samsung wants to maintain strong Ultra sales volumes. Competitive pricing could help achieve that goal.
Changes in Pre-Booking Offers Expected
Leaks also suggest Samsung may alter its promotional strategy this year. The company could discontinue its popular storage upgrade pre-booking offer. Previous Galaxy launches included free storage upgrades for early buyers.
Reports indicate that Samsung may remove some promotional incentives. This could partially balance the reduced Ultra pricing. Buyers may need to pay full price for higher storage variants.
Such changes reflect a more streamlined pricing approach.
Expected Launch Timeline
According to leak-based timelines, Samsung may unveil the Galaxy S26 series on February 25. Pre-orders could begin on February 26. Open sales are expected to start around March 11.
These dates have not been officially confirmed. However, they align with Samsung’s typical flagship launch schedule.
What This Means for Buyers
For Samsung fans, the Galaxy S26 series offers mixed news. Buyers interested in the Ultra model may benefit from lower entry pricing. Those considering standard or Plus models should prepare for higher costs.
The shift also highlights Samsung’s evolving market strategy. By adjusting flagship pricing tiers, the company may aim to retain dominance in the premium segment.
Consumers are advised to wait for official confirmation. Final prices and offers will be announced during the launch event.
The Galaxy S26 series could mark a significant pricing shift for Samsung. Rising component costs may increase prices for most models. However, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could become more affordable than before.
If these leaks prove accurate, Samsung’s flagship strategy in 2026 will look very different. Premium buyers may have more reasons to consider the Ultra model. Official details are expected soon, as the launch date approaches.
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