Galaxy Unpacked 2026 officially set for February 25 — how to reserve your Galaxy S26 Ultra now

News
By published

You can get a $30 credit and enter to win a $5,000 gift card

Galaxy Unpacked 2026.
(Image credit: Samsung / Evan Blass)

And just like that, we have an official date for the next Galaxy Unpacked event. Samsung’s first major announcement of the year is set for Wednesday, February 25, where we will almost certainly get our first look at the new Galaxy S26 lineup.

Based on the official invitation, it's clear that Galaxy AI will take center stage. There have been numerous rumors and leaks regarding Samsung’s plans for new Galaxy AI features, including the possibility that some capabilities may be restricted to the top-of-the-line Ultra model.

Ahead of its event, Samsung's trying to entice people by sweetening the deal for those ready to commit early. Specifically, you can earn a $30 Samsung Credit to use toward your pre-order when you place a reservation right now — which also enters you for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card.

Galaxy Unpacked 2026: How to watch

Galaxy Unpacked 2023 February

(Image credit: Samsung)

Samsung’s event is taking place live in San Francisco on February 25, but no details have been revealed about the venue. For everyone else, you’ll be able to watch the live stream starting at 1 p.m. ET/ 10 a.m. PT on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung’s YouTube channel.

New Galaxy AI features

Galaxy Unpacked 2026 gif animation.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Samsung promises to usher in a "new phase in the era of AI," according to its press release. This is particularly interesting given that there have been relatively few leaks surrounding new Galaxy AI features. In fact, the only prominent rumor alleges that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will receive exclusive AI features that won't be available on other models in the lineup.

This would be a departure from the company’s previous rollouts, where every device in the series typically shared the same AI suite. “The new Galaxy S series is coming — built to simplify everyday interactions, inspire confidence, and make Galaxy AI feel seamlessly integrated from the moment it’s in hand,” the announcement reveals.

It will be fascinating to see exactly what these new capabilities entail. We may see an evolution of the cross-app actions that debuted with the Galaxy S25, or perhaps something related to AI-enhanced zoom photography.

Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus

Galaxy S26 render

(Image credit: OnLeaks / Android Headlines)

According to the most recent leaks, we expect to see three phones: the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Based on leaked spec sheets, the standard Galaxy S26 appears to be getting a larger 6.3-inch AMOLED display and a 4,300 mAh battery. This combination suggests the S26 will be slightly larger in size than the current Galaxy S25.

There doesn't appear to be a massive overhaul for the Galaxy S26 Plus, as it's rumored to retain a 6.7-inch AMOLED display and a 4,900 mAh battery. Perhaps the most intriguing rumor regarding the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus is that they will be powered by the Exynos 2600 processor, a shift from the Qualcomm silicon used in current models.

This switch could play a significant role in pricing, with leaks suggesting Samsung may be doing this to reduce production costs and, more importantly, stave off potential price hikes. However, other rumors claim that variants in the U.S. and China will still feature a Qualcomm chip.

Galaxy S26 Ultra

An edited version of an alleged official render of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

(Image credit: Evan Blass)

Even though the official announcement focuses heavily on "personal and adaptive" intelligence, all eyes are on the hardware. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will need a formidable package if it intends to beat out best phone contenders like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and OnePlus 15.

Among the major upgrades rumored for the device, a "privacy display" designed to protect your screen from prying eyes is expected to be a breakout feature. We're also anticipating significant camera upgrades, including a larger sensor to draw in more light, an improved 3x telephoto lens, and the potential return of a variable aperture.

Finally, the S26 Ultra is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. This new silicon will hopefully extend the phone's endurance, as rumors suggest it will retain the same 5,000 mAh battery capacity as its predecessor. There is also the exciting possibility of 60W fast charging, which would finally allow Samsung to keep pace with its main rivals.

Galaxy S26 Edge

Leaked renders of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge

(Image credit: Android Headlines / OnLeaks)

This one is a tough call, given that Samsung was reportedly disappointed by the sales of its Galaxy S25 Edge. During last year’s event, Samsung devoted time to teasing its ultra-thin phone — but we might not see a follow-up of any kind this year.

It's unlikely that the Galaxy S26 Edge will make its debut at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, though Samsung could use the stage to clarify its plans for future Edge offerings.

Google News

Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds.

More from Tom's Guide

John Velasco
John Velasco
Senior Channel Editor for Phones

John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.