Samsung Confirms Big AI Leap for Galaxy S26
Samsung has officially confirmed that the Galaxy S26 series will bring major AI upgrades, a new custom processor, and better camera sensors. The announcement came during the company’s Q3 2025 earnings call.
Daniel Araujo, Vice President of Samsung’s Mobile Experience Division, said the Galaxy S26 will “revolutionize the user experience with user-centric, next-gen AI, a second-generation custom AP, and stronger performance, including new camera sensors.”
Custom Chipset to Power the Galaxy S26
Samsung’s comments hint that the Exynos 2600 will power some Galaxy S26 models. The new chip will be the company’s first 2nm processor, designed for higher performance and improved energy efficiency.
At the same time, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 will power other models. Samsung seems ready to continue its dual-chip approach, which it used in previous Galaxy S flagships.
Reports suggest that the base Galaxy S26 could use the Exynos version, while the S26+ and S26 Ultra may feature Snapdragon chips. However, Araujo said the final chipset decision is still under review.
New Camera Sensors and AI Features Incoming
Camera upgrades are also on the horizon. The Galaxy S26 is expected to feature new image sensors with improved low-light performance and advanced AI image processing. Samsung’s focus on AI-driven photography could bring smarter scene detection, enhanced portrait clarity, and faster image rendering.
Beyond photography, next-gen AI capabilities could extend to system-wide personalization, productivity tools, and even real-time language translation, aligning with Samsung’s push for a more connected and intelligent Galaxy ecosystem.
Foldables and Wearables to Get Smarter in 2026
Looking ahead, Samsung plans to bring its AI advancements to other product categories. Araujo confirmed that the company will continue to innovate in foldables, aiming to strengthen its product lineup in 2026.
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series is also set to receive expanded AI-powered health tracking and wellness insights. In addition, the company plans to grow its TWS (true wireless stereo) segment with new devices built around smarter AI integrations.
Samsung’s Vision for 2026: AI and Ecosystem Growth
While Samsung’s sales dipped slightly in North America and South Korea, its overall Q3 performance improved year-over-year. The company highlighted steady demand for flagship phones, tablets, and wearables — particularly the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which performed well globally.
As 2026 approaches, Samsung aims to lead in AI-powered mobile experiences and innovative form factors. The brand expects rising component prices, including memory, which might influence smartphone pricing next year. Still, Samsung plans to use seasonal offers and ecosystem bundles to maintain its market momentum.
With next-gen AI, upgraded cameras, and a custom-built processor, the Galaxy S26 could mark a major leap in Samsung’s smartphone evolution — setting the tone for its AI-first decade.
