Samsung is preparing to unveil the Galaxy S26 Ultra, with growing agreement around the launch, pre-order and retail dates for its next flagship smartphone, Forbes reports. Industry commentator Ice Universe this week reinforced expectations that have been echoed by several publications.
Samsung is set to introduce the Galaxy S26 lineup at a Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25. The range will include the Galaxy S26 Ultra as the flagship model alongside the Galaxy S26+ and the standard Galaxy S26. Despite earlier speculation, Samsung is not expected to add a Pro or Edge variant this year, opting instead to retain its familiar lineup.
Analysts say the company avoided introducing a higher-priced entry model to remain competitive with Apple’s base iPhone, while weak demand for ultra-thin designs also contributed to the decision. The streamlined approach reportedly led to a slight delay in launch timing to allow production to ramp up.
Pre-order and release
Pre-orders are expected to open on February 26, the day after the launch event. Ice Universe said this schedule applies to South Korea, where pre-orders may run until March 4 followed by a short pre-sale period. It remains unclear whether the same structure will be used globally. Samsung is likely to offer incentives such as enhanced trade-in deals and online-exclusive colours, along with potential bundled services.
Retail availability and shipping of pre-orders are expected to begin on March 11, a midweek date chosen to avoid a Friday the 13th release.
Recent leaks suggest Samsung will raise the base storage of the Galaxy S26 and S26+ to 256 GB, with an option to upgrade to 512 GB. This move would give Samsung an edge over rivals such as Google and Apple, whose entry models are expected to start at lower storage levels.
Samsung held a 19.1% share of the global smartphone market in 2025, with strong demand for the Galaxy S25 Ultra driving sales. With competition intensifying from Apple, Google and Chinese brands, Samsung will be looking to see whether the Galaxy S26 family can maintain its leadership in a more crowded market.
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