Samsung galaxy s26 series & galaxy buds 4: what to expect at unpacked 2026
Samsung's unpacked 2026: a date with the galaxy s26
Get ready for the next generation of Samsung's flagship devices! The Galaxy S26 series, alongside the Galaxy Buds 4, is set to be unveiled on February 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. PT in San Francisco. This event, broadcast live on Samsung’s YouTube channel and website, promises to be a major highlight of the year, showcasing what Samsung has been working on. Expect to see the Galaxy S26 Ultra, the Galaxy S26, and the Galaxy S26 Plus.
Galaxy s26 series: redesigned and enhanced
Leaked renders suggest a slight redesign for the entire S26 lineup, including a noticeable camera bump. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will notably sport rounder edges, aligning it visually with its smaller counterparts. A standout feature of the Ultra is reportedly a privacy display that automatically hides content from prying eyes and a new 10-bit color display. Minor upgrades to charging speeds and camera capabilities are also anticipated.
Smaller s26 models: slimmer and brighter
The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are expected to receive a more subtle redesign, potentially becoming slightly slimmer. The Galaxy S26 might also feature a slightly larger display, measuring 6.3 inches compared to the 6.2-inch display on the Galaxy S25. Both models are likely to be powered by either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or Exynos 2600 processor, depending on the region.
Galaxy buds 4 series: a fresh design
Alongside the phones, Samsung is anticipated to introduce the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. Leaked images reveal a new design incorporating metal strips on the stems, moving away from the AirPods-like aesthetic. The standard Buds 4 are likely to remain primarily plastic, while the Pro models are expected to feature silicone eartips for improved noise isolation and sound quality.
The rise of galaxy ai
Generative AI is poised to play a significant role in the Unpacked 2026 event. Samsung has already teased the privacy screen of the Galaxy S26 Ultra as an AI-powered feature. Expect announcements regarding enhanced AI photography capabilities, and potentially even AI image generation through a partnership with Nota AI.
What won't be at unpacked 2026
Despite earlier rumors, a Galaxy S26 Edge is reportedly cancelled or indefinitely delayed due to a lack of popularity. Don't expect to see Samsung's latest foldable phones (Galaxy Z Fold 8 or Z Flip 8) or new smartwatches at this event, as those are typically reserved for the summer Unpacked event. Samsung is focusing on showcasing the core S26 lineup and the new audio offerings.