New Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Brings Back Exynos Chips

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series, expected to launch in January 2026, is already the subject of numerous leaks and rumors. With speculation about the return of Exynos chips and major improvements in design, performance, and camera technology, the S26 lineup promises to be a pivotal release for the South Korean tech giant. Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest leaks and insights into what the Galaxy S26 series might bring.


Key Highlights of the Galaxy S26 Series:

  • Exynos Return: Samsung may reintroduce its in-house Exynos processors for select models in the Galaxy S26 series.
  • Dual-Chip Strategy: A mix of Exynos and Snapdragon chipsets depending on the region.
  • Advanced Cameras: Potential upgrades to ultra-wide and selfie cameras.
  • Expected Launch: January 2026.

The Exynos Comeback: What to Expect

Samsung’s Exynos processors have faced criticism in the past for underperforming compared to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. However, reports suggest Samsung is working to resolve these issues.

  1. Exynos in Select Markets:
    • The Galaxy S26 and S26+ models may feature the Exynos 2600 chipset in regions like Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
    • The US market is expected to receive models powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipset.
  2. Overcoming Production Challenges:
    • The Exynos 2500 was originally planned for the Galaxy S25 series but faced low yield issues in Samsung’s 3nm process.
    • Samsung Foundry has reportedly stabilized these issues, paving the way for a reliable Exynos 2600.
  3. Rationale for Dual-Chip Strategy:
    • Reducing reliance on Qualcomm.
    • Maintaining competitive pricing amidst rising Snapdragon costs.

Snapdragon 8 Elite in Galaxy S25 Series

Before discussing the S26 series, it’s essential to note the Galaxy S25 lineup’s reliance on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Due to manufacturing difficulties with Exynos 2500, Samsung decided to equip the entire S25 series with Snapdragon processors globally. This uniformity ensures consistent performance across all regions, addressing a long-standing complaint from users about region-specific disparities.


Design and Display

Although specific design details of the S26 series remain sparse, there are speculations that Samsung may introduce:

  • Sleek Refinements: Enhanced build quality and thinner bezels.
  • Dynamic AMOLED 2X Displays: Likely maintaining high brightness levels and smooth refresh rates (120Hz).
  • Possible Name Changes: Rumors suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra could be renamed the Galaxy S26 Note, emphasizing its productivity features.
Display SpecificationsExpected Features
Galaxy S26/S26+6.4”/6.7” AMOLED, 120Hz
Galaxy S26 Ultra (or Note)6.9” AMOLED, 144Hz, QHD+ resolution

Camera Innovations

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is already expected to set a high standard with its advanced cameras, including a 50 MP ultra-wide sensor. The S26 Ultra may build on these improvements:

  1. Primary Shooter:
    • Likely to retain the 200 MP sensor introduced in the S24 Ultra.
  2. Ultra-Wide Camera:
    • Upgraded to a 50 MP sensor for improved detail and low-light performance.
  3. Telephoto Lens:
    • Advanced zoom capabilities for professional-grade photography.
  4. Selfie Camera:
    • Enhanced to 32 MP for clearer, sharper selfies.
Camera SpecificationsDetails
Primary Camera200 MP, advanced image processing
Ultra-Wide Sensor50 MP, improved field of view
TelephotoDual lenses, periscope zoom
Selfie Camera32 MP, AI-enhanced features

Performance and Battery Life

Performance is expected to receive a significant boost, thanks to advancements in both Exynos and Snapdragon technologies:

  1. Chipset Performance:
    • The Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon’s next-gen chips will offer faster processing speeds and better AI capabilities.
  2. Battery:
    • Enhanced energy efficiency.
    • Large battery capacities, likely ranging from 4500mAh to 5500mAh depending on the model.
  3. Charging:
    • Faster wired charging (up to 45W).
    • Improved wireless charging speeds (15W+).
Performance SpecificationsDetails
ProcessorExynos 2600/Snapdragon Next-Gen
Battery Capacity4500mAh (S26) to 5500mAh (S26 Ultra)
Charging45W wired, 15W wireless

Pricing and Availability

Samsung’s pricing strategy is expected to remain competitive despite rising component costs:

  1. Estimated Prices:
    • Galaxy S26: $899
    • Galaxy S26+: $1099
    • Galaxy S26 Ultra: $1299
  2. Launch Timeline:
    • Announcement and launch likely in January 2026.

Challenges and Opportunities

Samsung’s decision to reintroduce Exynos chips presents both opportunities and risks:

  • Opportunities:
    • Greater control over hardware and software integration.
    • Potential cost savings.
  • Challenges:
    • Addressing user concerns about performance disparities.
    • Competing with Qualcomm’s superior chip reputation.

Conclusion

The Galaxy S26 series marks an ambitious step for Samsung, with the return of Exynos chips and continued innovations in camera and display technologies. While challenges remain, the dual-chip strategy and ongoing improvements suggest a bright future for Samsung’s flagship lineup. Whether Exynos can truly compete with Snapdragon remains to be seen, but the Galaxy S26 series is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting smartphone launches in recent years.

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