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| Samsung's smartphone release schedule might look a lot different in 2026 |
Remember when you could reliably mark your calendar for a new Samsung Galaxy S flagship every March? Those days are long gone. The launch timeline first shifted to the early-year hustle of January and February, but if the latest whispers from the tech world are accurate, Samsung's 2026 release schedule is undergoing its most significant reshuffle yet.
According to prominent leaker Abhishek Yadav on X, Samsung might be flipping its traditional script entirely next year. Instead of the flagship Galaxy S26 series taking center stage first, the spotlight could initially fall on its more affordable lineup.
A New Year, A New (Launch) Order
The report suggests the entry-level Galaxy A07 might be the first smartphone out of the gate, potentially debuting as soon as this month or early January. It would then be followed by two more mid-range contenders, the Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57, in February 2026. This is particularly notable as Samsung's Galaxy A-series phones typically surface in the spring, around March or April.
Essentially, Samsung's popular mid-rangers, which usually launch via press release rather than a glitzy event, could steal a march on their premium siblings. This strategic shift places budget-friendly options in the market window that was once reserved for its headline act.
So, When Are the Galaxy S26 Phones Coming?
The big question remains: if the A-series is launching early, what does that mean for the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra? The timeline points to a notably later debut.
An earlier leak had pinpointed February 25 for the next Galaxy Unpacked event, while another source hinted it could slip into March.
For the original report on the shifted launch order, check out the post from leaker Abhishek Yadav on X here.
Regardless of the exact event date, industry watchers now believe the phones are unlikely to hit store shelves before March or even April 2026. This delay would represent a substantial shift from the early-year availability we've grown accustomed to.
Why the Potential Delay for the Galaxy S26 Series?
The flagship's tardy arrival isn't coming out of nowhere. It's likely a calculated response to global supply chain and production challenges. A key factor is the ongoing global DRAM shortage, which affects a critical component in smartphone manufacturing.
Furthermore, Samsung might need extra time to ramp up production of its in-house chipset. Reports suggest the company is working hard to push out Exynos 2600 wafers to meet anticipated demand. While a DigiTimes report stated that only South Korea would get Exynos-powered Galaxy S26 models, Samsung's historical strategy of splitting between Exynos and Snapdragon chips suggests the Exynos 2600 could also power units in the EU, Asia, and other key markets.
What This Means for Smartphone Shoppers
If this new launch sequence holds, it signals a savvy move by Samsung. By front-loading its budget and mid-range launches, the company can capture early-year sales and maintain market buzz, even as its flagship work undergoes final polishing. For consumers, it means a longer wait for the cutting-edge S26 tech, but potentially more attractive early-year options in the A-series.
One thing's for certain: Samsung's 2026 calendar is looking anything but predictable. We'll be keeping a close eye on all official announcements and leaks as the story develops.