Xiaomi 18 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26 target buyers who want flagship performance without moving to larger phones. However, they approach the premium experience differently. Xiaomi focuses on advanced camera hardware, a distinctive secondary display, and fast charging, while Samsung prioritizes a refined everyday experience, long-term software support, and a familiar flagship design. The choice ultimately comes down to whether superior hardware capabilities or a more balanced, long-lasting smartphone experience matters more.

Major Features:

Design and Display

Build and Feel

The Xiaomi 18 Pro combines a premium glass-and-aluminum construction with Dragon Crystal Glass 3 protection and an IP68 rating. Its standout design feature is the secondary display on the rear, which adds functionality beyond the conventional flagship formula. This extra screen gives Xiaomi a distinctive identity and potentially makes quick interactions more convenient without opening the main display.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 adopts a more traditional approach, pairing Gorilla Glass Victus 2 with an aluminum frame and IP68 protection. Its cleaner design prioritizes familiarity and everyday practicality rather than experimenting with an additional screen. Samsung also offers broader SIM flexibility in several markets, including eSIM support. For buyers who prefer an uncomplicated flagship design, Samsung feels like the more straightforward choice.

Display Quality

The Xiaomi 18 Pro features a 6.4-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a claimed peak brightness of 4,000 nits. Its rear AMOLED display adds versatility for notifications, selfies, and quick interactions.

Samsung counters with a 6.3-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and 2,600-nit peak brightness. Xiaomi offers the more ambitious display package, particularly for HDR content and outdoor visibility, while Samsung remains well equipped for everyday viewing.

Verdict

Xiaomi wins this section with its brighter main display, Dolby Vision support, and useful secondary screen. Samsung remains attractive for buyers who prefer a conventional, streamlined flagship design.

Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The Xiaomi 18 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, built on a 2nm process, paired with up to 16GB RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. This combination positions it for demanding gaming, intensive multitasking, and resource-heavy applications. Its newer-generation platform also gives it a compelling advantage on paper, although real-world performance will depend on thermal management and software optimization.

The Galaxy S26 offers either the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or Exynos 2600, depending on the market. Its 12GB RAM configuration and UFS 4.X storage should provide a responsive flagship experience, while Samsung’s One UI 9 adds a polished software environment. Samsung also promises up to seven major Android upgrades, making it a particularly appealing option for buyers who keep their phones for years. Xiaomi looks stronger for raw hardware potential, but Samsung has a clearer long-term software commitment.

Battery and Charging

Xiaomi equips the 18 Pro with a 7,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, 100W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 27W reverse wireless charging. This combination should suit heavy users who want fewer charging interruptions and greater flexibility when powering accessories.

Samsung’s 4,300mAh battery supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. Its battery capacity and charging speeds are considerably more modest, making Xiaomi the more promising choice for endurance and convenience. Actual battery life will still depend on usage and efficiency.

Verdict

Xiaomi wins decisively with its larger battery, faster wired and wireless charging, and stronger reverse charging. Samsung’s software support remains its key advantage for long-term ownership.

Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

The Xiaomi 18 Pro features a 200MP main camera with optical image stabilization, a 200MP periscope telephoto camera offering 3.2x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. Leica lens branding, laser autofocus, and advanced video recording capabilities further strengthen its flagship credentials. The high-resolution telephoto camera is particularly promising for portraits and detailed zoom photography, while the versatile camera system should appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different focal lengths.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 takes a more conservative approach with a 50MP stabilized main camera, a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. It supports 8K recording and offers features such as Horizon Lock and Super Steady video. Samsung’s system remains versatile for everyday photography, but Xiaomi has a more ambitious hardware setup, especially for zoom and high-resolution imaging. Actual image quality will depend on processing, exposure, and consistency rather than megapixel counts alone.

Selfie Camera

Xiaomi includes a 50MP autofocus selfie camera with 4K recording, while Samsung uses a 12MP autofocus front camera with 4K video support. Xiaomi offers greater resolution, but Samsung’s processing could still deliver competitive skin tones and exposure.

Verdict

Xiaomi wins on camera hardware versatility, particularly with its dual 200MP rear cameras and high-resolution selfie camera. Samsung remains a capable choice for dependable everyday photography.

Pricing

The Xiaomi 18 Pro is priced around $1,000 (₹1,20,000), placing it firmly in the premium flagship category. Its asking price reflects an ambitious combination of camera hardware, a secondary display, a large battery, and high-speed charging. Buyers receive a feature-rich package designed to compete with the most advanced Android smartphones.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 is priced around $900 (₹88,000), making it the more affordable option at the stated prices. It offers flagship processing, a capable triple-camera system, a premium build, and extended software support. However, regional pricing, storage configurations, and taxes can affect the final cost. Samsung’s lower entry price makes it easier to recommend to mainstream premium-phone buyers, while Xiaomi targets those willing to spend more for enhanced hardware.

Is the price justified?

Xiaomi’s premium is easier to justify for buyers who prioritize photography, battery endurance, and charging speed. Samsung offers stronger value for users who want flagship essentials and extended software support without paying as much upfront. For most everyday users, Samsung is the more economical purchase, but Xiaomi delivers more ambitious hardware for enthusiasts.

Verdict

Samsung wins on value for money at the stated prices, offering flagship features and long-term software support for less. Xiaomi justifies its premium through more advanced hardware.

Disclaimer:
Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, launch timing, and applicable taxes. Always check whether the listed price is for a China unit or a global/international variant when purchasing.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi 18 Pro stands out with its rear secondary display, dual 200MP camera system, 7,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, and 100W wired charging. These features make it particularly appealing to users who want a feature-packed flagship with fewer compromises in photography and battery convenience. Its newer-generation Snapdragon platform also promises substantial performance potential, although independent testing will determine the practical difference.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 counters with a more conventional premium design, a capable triple-camera system, Samsung DeX desktop functionality, and a commitment to up to seven major Android upgrades. Its lower stated price also makes it attractive to buyers who value software longevity and a dependable everyday experience. Samsung’s combination of usability, support, and cost is difficult to overlook, even though its battery and charging specifications are less ambitious. Xiaomi feels more exciting from a hardware perspective, while Samsung makes a stronger case for long-term ownership.

Verdict

Overall winner: Xiaomi 18 Pro. Its superior camera hardware, larger battery, faster charging, brighter display, and secondary screen make it the more compelling flagship. The Galaxy S26 remains the smarter value pick for buyers prioritizing software support and a lower price.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.

Read More:

• Vivo X500 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26+: Which Flagship Is Worth Your Money?
• Huawei Mate 90 Pro Max vs Vivo X500 Pro Max: The $400 Difference Explained
• iQOO 16 vs Xiaomi 18 Pro: Can Xiaomi Justify Its Higher Price?

The post Xiaomi 18 Pro vs Galaxy S26: The Flagship Battle Samsung May Not Win appeared first on Gizmochina.

Vivo X500 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26+ take different approaches to the premium smartphone experience. Vivo focuses on advanced photography, faster charging, and a compact flagship design, while Samsung combines a sharper display, long-term software support, and productivity features. Both target buyers seeking high-end performance, but their differences in cameras, battery life, and pricing make this comparison particularly important for anyone choosing a premium Android phone.

Major Features:

Design and Display

Build and Feel

The Vivo X500 Pro combines a glass front, aluminum frame, and glass or glass-fiber reinforced plastic back, depending on the variant. Its IP68/IP69 rating offers stronger protection against dust and high-pressure water jets. Samsung uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both sides, an Armor Aluminum 2 frame, and an IP68 rating. Its construction feels more focused on durability and everyday refinement. Vivo’s more extensive water-resistance rating provides an advantage for users who frequently encounter challenging outdoor conditions, while Samsung offers a familiar premium finish.

Display Quality

Vivo features a 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a claimed peak brightness of 4,500 nits. Samsung counters with a 6.7-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel, a sharper QHD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and 2,600 nits of peak brightness. Samsung suits users who prefer a spacious screen for reading, streaming, and multitasking. Vivo delivers smoother scrolling and broader HDR format support, making it attractive for gaming and compact-phone enthusiasts.

Verdict

Vivo wins on refresh rate, peak brightness claims, and water resistance. Samsung is better for immersive viewing, higher resolution, and a larger workspace, making the choice dependent on display priorities.

Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The Vivo X500 Pro uses the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro, built on a 2nm process, paired with 12GB RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. Samsung offers the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in selected markets or the Exynos 2600 in other regions, alongside 12GB RAM. Both target demanding gaming, multitasking, and AI workloads, although real-world performance will depend on thermal management and software optimization. Vivo’s newer platform and fast storage look promising, while Samsung’s established Galaxy ecosystem and regional chipset options make its performance profile more dependent on the version purchased.

Battery and Charging

Vivo packs a 6,510mAh silicon-carbon battery with 90W wired charging, 40W wireless charging, and reverse wireless and wired charging. Samsung uses a 4,900mAh battery, 45W wired charging, 20W Qi2.2 wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. Vivo has a clear advantage in battery capacity and charging flexibility, potentially making it more suitable for heavy users and frequent travelers. Samsung supports USB Power Delivery 3.0 and offers a balanced charging setup, but its smaller battery and slower charging make Vivo the more compelling option for users who prioritize endurance.

Verdict

Vivo wins for battery capacity, charging speed, and reverse charging versatility. Samsung remains competitive for everyday performance, but Vivo offers the more convincing package for power users.

Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

Vivo equips the X500 Pro with a 50MP main camera featuring optical image stabilization, a 64MP periscope telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, and a 50MP autofocus ultrawide camera. Zeiss optics, lens coating, and advanced video recording options further strengthen its imaging credentials. Samsung uses a 50MP stabilized main camera, a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. Its Horizon Lock and Super Steady video features are useful for action footage. Vivo’s higher-resolution telephoto and ultrawide cameras suggest greater flexibility for portraits, distant subjects, and landscapes, while Samsung prioritizes practical everyday shooting and stabilized video.

Selfie Camera

Vivo features a 50MP autofocus selfie camera capable of recording 4K video at 60fps. Samsung has a 12MP selfie camera with dual-pixel autofocus, HDR10+ support, and 4K recording at 60fps. Vivo offers greater resolution and a wider field of view, which may benefit group selfies, travel content, and detailed video calls. Samsung’s autofocus system and HDR support remain useful for consistent results across different lighting conditions. For creators who frequently record themselves, Vivo appears better equipped, although final image quality will still depend on processing, exposure, and skin-tone reproduction rather than megapixel counts alone.

Verdict

Vivo wins on camera versatility, telephoto hardware, ultrawide resolution, and selfie specifications. Samsung remains a capable everyday camera phone, but Vivo looks more appealing for photography enthusiasts and content creators.

Pricing

The Vivo X500 Pro is priced around $950 / ₹93,000, while the Samsung Galaxy S26+ is priced around $1,200 / ₹1,00,000. Vivo is the less expensive option in both quoted markets, although the difference is considerably larger in dollar terms than in rupees. That makes the Vivo particularly attractive to buyers seeking flagship-level hardware without paying the highest premium. Samsung commands a higher price for its display experience, extended software support, and productivity ecosystem. Actual retail prices may vary by storage configuration, region, import duties, and promotional offers, so local availability matters when comparing the final cost.

Is the price justified?

Vivo’s pricing looks more compelling because it combines a substantial battery, faster charging, versatile cameras, and a high-refresh-rate display at a lower starting price. Samsung’s premium is easier to justify for buyers who value seven major Android OS upgrades, Samsung DeX, UWB, and the broader Galaxy ecosystem. However, these advantages may not matter equally to every user. For hardware-focused buyers, Vivo offers stronger apparent value, while Samsung suits those who intend to keep their phone for years and use its productivity features regularly.

Verdict

Vivo wins on overall hardware value, offering more camera flexibility and faster charging for less. Samsung justifies its premium mainly through software longevity and productivity features.

Disclaimer:
Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, launch timing, and applicable taxes. Always check whether the listed price is for a China unit or a global/international variant when purchasing.

Conclusion

The Vivo X500 Pro distinguishes itself with Zeiss-backed imaging, a 64MP periscope telephoto camera, Dolby Vision support, a 144Hz display, and a large silicon-carbon battery. Its IP68/IP69 protection and reverse wired charging add practical benefits for demanding users. Samsung’s Galaxy S26+ counters with a sharper QHD+ display, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, seven major OS upgrades, Samsung DeX, Wireless DeX, and UWB support. These features make it a more attractive choice for users invested in Samsung’s connected-device ecosystem. Both phones deliver a premium Android experience, but their strengths serve different priorities. Vivo emphasizes hardware versatility and charging convenience, whereas Samsung focuses on software longevity, productivity, and a polished everyday experience.

Verdict

Overall winner: Vivo X500 Pro. Its stronger camera hardware, larger battery, faster charging, brighter 144Hz display, and lower starting price make it the better all-round hardware package. Samsung Galaxy S26+ is the better choice for buyers prioritizing long-term software support, a sharper screen, and productivity tools.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.

Read More:

• Huawei Mate 90 Pro Max vs Vivo X500 Pro Max: The $400 Difference Explained
• iQOO 16 vs Xiaomi 18 Pro: Can Xiaomi Justify Its Higher Price?
• Vivo X500 Pro Max vs iQOO 16: Which Flagship Is Better?

The post Vivo X500 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26+: Which Flagship Is Worth Your Money? appeared first on Gizmochina.

Third-party tempered glass screen protectors made for the Galaxy S27, S27+, and S27 Ultra have been leaked. They’re offering both the regular clear ones and what looks like privacy versions that block side-angle peeping. These protectors give us some of the strongest early clues yet about the front designs and roughly how big the screens will be.

From the dimensions of the protectors, the base Galaxy S27 looks set to land with a 6.27″ display, making it the compact option in the lineup. The S27+ is tipped for a 6.66″ panel, while the Ultra may stretch to a big 6.89″ screen.

There’s also talk of a Galaxy S27 Pro sitting somewhere in the middle at around 6.47 inches. Overall, the outlines look very familiar. Earlier reports even suggested the S27 Ultra’s tempered glass might still fit the S26 Ultra, which points to only minor changes in the front design and bezels.

On the memory side, things are still being finalized. Samsung is apparently wrestling with rising component costs, so the final RAM and storage configs aren’t locked in yet. The current leaked options look something like this:

• Galaxy S27: 8GB or 12GB RAM with 256GB or 512GB storage
• Galaxy S27+: 8GB or 12GB RAM with 256GB or 512GB storage
• Galaxy S27 Pro: 12GB RAM with 256GB or 512GB, and possibly a 16GB + 1TB option
• Galaxy S27 Ultra: 12GB RAM with 256GB or 512GB, plus a 16GB + 1TB configuration

Tipsters like @kro_roe say Samsung is considering 8GB variants of the base and Plus models in some markets just to keep costs under control amid semiconductor shortages. 12GB is still expected to be the more common option. Higher-end Pro and Ultra models are more likely to get the 16GB + 1TB treatment, according to sources including @WalleGalaxy.

The Galaxy S27 series is widely expected to arrive in early 2027. The screen-protector leaks mostly reinforce design continuity.

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(Sources: 1, 2)

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Samsung’s wider foldable design opens up new ways to use the Galaxy Z Fold 8 beyond simply unfolding it into a larger screen. From watching videos at a comfortable angle to running three apps simultaneously, the device offers several practical ways to take advantage of its unconventional form factor. Here are seven ways I enjoyed using it.

Watch YouTube and Netflix at your preferred angle

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 can be propped up in a slanted position, making it convenient to watch YouTube videos, Netflix shows, and other content without holding the phone. The viewing angle can be adjusted to suit your position, while the volume buttons remain accessible on the opposite side.

You can also fold the device into a tent-like shape. While this orientation serves a similar purpose, accessing the volume buttons becomes less convenient. I could not find a particularly compelling use for this position, although keeping the phone in tent mode with my calendar open could be useful for glancing at appointments while working.

Read, type, and multitask in portrait orientation

I particularly like holding the unfolded Fold 8 vertically when reading articles or typing. The larger display provides more room than a conventional phone, while Samsung’s multitasking interface lets you open multiple apps in a single view.

As shown in my photos, you can keep a webpage open across the upper portion of the screen while using Samsung Notes and another application below it. You can also stack apps vertically, making it easier to reference information while writing or responding to messages.

This arrangement is useful for researching a topic while taking notes, reading an article while chatting, or checking information without repeatedly switching between apps.

Run two or three apps horizontally

The wider inner display also works well when you unfold the phone horizontally and run two or three apps side by side. In my setup, I could keep X and Instagram open alongside YouTube, allowing me to browse social media feeds while watching a video.

Whether you stack the three vertically or horizontally, you can adjust their sizes for a better viewing experience.

There are several other possibilities. You could follow live updates on social media while watching a sports match, monitor messages while attending an online meeting, or keep a browser and messaging app open alongside a video tutorial.

The ability to see multiple applications simultaneously makes the Fold 8 useful for people who regularly juggle different tasks.

Take photos using the rear camera and review them instantly

The unfolded display can also serve as a useful interface for rear-camera photography. When taking pictures, the camera viewfinder occupies one part of the screen, while captured images appear stacked in a pane alongside it.

This lets you scroll through the photos you have already taken and review them without leaving the camera interface. You can check your shots, decide whether another picture is needed, and continue shooting.

It is a convenient approach when photographing products, documenting objects, or capturing images for work. Having the viewfinder and recent shots visible together makes the process feel more organized.

Enjoy the compact size for everyday use

Despite its larger inner display, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 remains compact enough to use as a regular phone when folded. The cover screen handles everyday tasks such as checking notifications, opening apps, replying to messages, and browsing without requiring you to unfold the device every time.

However, its almost-square shape introduces a small usability quirk. When the phone is in your pocket, locating the volume buttons by touch can be less intuitive than on a conventional smartphone or a narrower foldable. You may need to adjust your grip to increase or decrease the volume.

The phone can also wobble when placed on a flat surface, particularly when you tap the screen, because its rear cameras are positioned in the corner. It is not a deal-breaker, but it is worth noting. The same issue also affects Apple’s iPhone Duo, which also features a corner-mounted camera setup. In contrast, the horizontal camera bar designs available with the Xiaomi 18 Fold and Huawei Pura X Max offer a different approach to balancing the devices on a surface. However, I have only tested the Samsung, so I cannot confirm how the other foldables behave in this regard.

Keep the phone partially open with the Always-On Display

Another option is to leave the Fold 8 partially open on a desk, with the Always-On Display showing the time and other glanceable information.

This arrangement gives the device a small desk-clock-like role without requiring a separate accessory. You can check the time at a glance and potentially see other supported information without fully opening the phone or picking it up.

It is a simple use case, but one that takes advantage of the foldable design in a way that a conventional smartphone cannot replicate as naturally.

Use a magnetic-ring case and wireless power bank as a stand

My favorite setup involves a case with a magnetic ring and a Sharge wireless power bank that snaps onto the back. Together, they let me prop up the unfolded phone horizontally or vertically at different viewing angles.

Of the two portrait orientations I tried, I preferred the one that positioned the screen at just the right angle for viewing and interacting with the interface. It worked particularly well for keeping Samsung Notes and the Tips app visible side by side.

This setup does require compatible accessories, and a case with a kickstand is another option. However, the magnetic-ring arrangement gives me additional flexibility while combining a stand-like function with a wireless power bank.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8’s wider design is useful in more ways than one. Whether you are watching videos, managing multiple apps, taking photos, or keeping the phone propped up on a desk, its form factor encourages experimentation. A few minor quirks aside, it can be a versatile device for both everyday use and productivity.

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Samsung is reportedly preparing a major overhaul of its smartphone software for 2027. The upcoming update could deliver a substantially different experience for Galaxy users. It may also change how Samsung integrates artificial intelligence across its devices.

Samsung One UI 10 could bring a radical redesign‘

Tipster Ice Universe has claimed that One UI 10 will introduce changes described as unprecedented. The update is expected to run on Android 18 and could arrive around mid-2027, potentially debuting alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 9 and Galaxy Z Flip 9. Samsung has not officially confirmed the software or its release timeline.

The redesign could change how users interact with applications by bringing related information together in a contextual interface. For instance, calendar events, location details, and conversations could become accessible through more connected workflows instead of requiring users to switch between multiple apps. The reported goal is to reduce unnecessary taps, simplify everyday tasks, and deliver smoother navigation.

Artificial intelligence could play a central role in this transformation. Samsung is reportedly working towards deeper AI integration, alongside improved continuity between Galaxy smartphones, tablets, and wearables. However, the precise features and the extent of these changes remain unknown.

Another rumor suggests Samsung could rename One UI to Galaxy OS as part of the overhaul. The potential rebrand remains unconfirmed, and it is unclear whether Samsung intends to introduce an entirely new identity or retain the One UI name.

There are also claims that some advanced AI tools and third-party integrations could eventually require a subscription, while essential everyday features remain free. Such a model could allow Samsung to monetise computationally intensive AI services, although no pricing plans or subscription details have been announced.

If these reports prove accurate, One UI 10 could represent a significant departure from Samsung’s usual annual software refinements. The company may release developer previews before the public rollout.

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Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy F70 5G in India, adding another model to its Galaxy F70 series. The new smartphone joins the existing Galaxy F70e and Galaxy F70 Pro models. Here is a closer look at its specifications, features, pricing, and availability.

Samsung Galaxy F70 5G specifications and features

The Galaxy F70 5G features a flat 6.7-inch sAMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It has a side-facing fingerprint sensor for security.

Under the hood, the Galaxy F70 5G is powered by the Exynos 1330. It has up to 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of internal storage, and there’s a microSD card slot for additional storage.

For photography, the handset features a 50-megapixel primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), marketed as the No Shake Cam. On the front, it features a 13-megapixel selfie camera.

A 5,000mAh battery powers the smartphone, with support for 25W wired charging. The handset runs on Samsung’s Exynos 1330 chipset and supports 5G connectivity. Buyers should note that the compatible 25W charging adapter is sold separately.

In terms of durability, the features a Gorilla Glaas Victus protection for the display and an IP54-rated dust and resistance. Samsung highlights its slim 7.5mm profile and calls it the segment’s slimmest phone.

Samsung Galaxy F70 5G price and availability

The Galaxy F70 5G is listed in Bold Black and Vivid Violet colour options. Its 4GB+128GB and 6GB+128GB variants are priced at Rs 19,999 (~$210) and Rs 22,999 (~$245). The handset is scheduled to go on sale through the Samsung India website and Flipkart starting Oct. 20

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It’s been a couple of weeks since Samsung announced the Galaxy SmartTag 3. However, the tracker still hasn’t hit the Indian market, and it’s now confirmed it won’t launch there until 2027. 

Daill Kim, Samsung India’s Head of Tablet, Note PC and Wearable, said in a LinkedIn post that the tracker will go on sale in the country in January 2027. He did not share an exact date.

Samsung announced the Galaxy SmartTag 3 as the successor to the Galaxy SmartTag 2. And for now, you can only buy it in South Korea.

What you get with the Galaxy SmartTag 3

The Galaxy SmartTag 3 is 35% smaller in volume and 33% lighter than the Galaxy SmartTag 2. It has a rounded shape, an aluminum button, and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. You can get it in black or white, and Samsung sells a Silicone Case and a Loop Case separately for attaching it to your items.

The biggest change is compatibility. Earlier Samsung trackers only worked with Galaxy phones. The Galaxy SmartTag 3 also connects to iOS devices through the SmartThings Find network, so a household with both iPhones and Android phones can track the same items, check location history, and use local search.

For finding things nearby, the tracker uses Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding. Your phone shows the distance and direction to the tag from up to 60 meters away, about three times the range of the SmartTag 2. Once you’re closer, it switches to ultra-wideband (UWB) for more precise tracking. If the tag is out of your phone’s Bluetooth range, it relies on the Galaxy Find Network, where other opted-in Samsung devices nearby relay its location back to you.

You can also set up a few alerts so you don’t have to keep opening the app. Place Notifications tell you when the tag enters or leaves an area such as your home or office. There are also movement detection alerts, Left Behind alerts when your phone disconnects from the tag, and a location history log.

The button on the tag can control SmartThings smart home devices. If you lose the tag, anyone who finds it can tap it with their phone, and the NFC chip shows them your registered contact details.

The Galaxy SmartTag 3 costs $29.99 for one or $99.99 for a four-pack. It launched in South Korea on October 7, and Samsung is planning a US release in November. 

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Samsung might be planning its most aggressive foldable year yet in 2027. According to tipster TheGalox, the company could launch as many as six Galaxy Z devices next year, more than double what it usually puts out.

The rumored lineup includes the Galaxy Z Slide, Galaxy Z TriFold 2, Galaxy Z Fold 9 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 9 Pro, Galaxy Z Fold 9, and Galaxy Z Flip 9. If this pans out, it would give people a much wider range of foldable options than Samsung has offered before.

The tipster also says the whole range is expected to get improvements people have been asking for: better battery life, thinner designs, and lighter bodies.

The most interesting (and unusual) device on the list is the Galaxy Z Slide. Instead of folding open like the Fold or Flip, it’s said to use a sliding mechanism that expands the screen outward. Samsung has shown similar sliding display tech before, including a concept at MWC, but we still don’t have details on the final size or how it would actually work. Earlier reports had suggested a rollable phone might not arrive until closer to 2028, so this one is worth watching.

Having both a Fold 9 Pro and a Fold 9 Ultra alongside the regular Fold 9 would also create clearer tiers within the book-style foldables, with different sizes, features, and price points. The Galaxy Z TriFold 2 is expected to lead the charge as the first device of the year, while the Flip 9 would stick with the familiar clamshell design.

Of course, none of this is confirmed by Samsung. Plans can (and often do) change. Still, the rumor fits with the company’s recent push to expand its foldable range and try out new form factors. We’ll have a clearer picture once more details start emerging.

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(Source: @TheGalox_ on X | Image)

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Early design details for Samsung’s next Ultra flagship are starting to firm up. Trusted leaker Ice Universe has shared some precise measurements of the Galaxy S27 Ultra. The upcoming flagship is expected to have 1.28 mm display bezels, a small step down from the 1.32 mm on the S26 Ultra.

While Samsung is chipping away at the borders for a more immersive screen, it’s lagging behind some Chinese rivals. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max and Oppo Find X10 Pro Max have already pushed bezels down to 0.99 mm and 1.15 mm. Any bigger visual jump might end up coming from the new AMOLED panel with improved Privacy Display tech rather than the bezel trim itself.

The camera module, on the other hand, is getting a bit thicker. Ice Universe’s numbers put the bump at 4.69 mm, up from roughly 4.5 mm on the S26 Ultra and a touch higher than the 4.56 mm suggested in earlier OnLeaks CAD renders.

Previous leaks have linked the main sensor to a new ISOCELL HP6. It’s still in the 1/1.3-inch class, but the lens module could be physically thicker than that of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which might help with light gathering or optics. A bigger battery is also expected.

These small dimensional changes sit alongside broader design rumors, including a move to a wider rectangular camera housing that stretches more across the back instead of the older vertical setup.

The Galaxy S27 series is still expected in the usual early-2027 window (January or February). The tweaks are minor on paper, but they suggest Samsung is carefully balancing a familiar design with the need to fit better cameras and a larger battery inside.

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(Sources: Ice Universe 1, 2)

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Seven years of Android updates are no longer limited to Google and Samsung. Motorola, Honor, and Fairphone have joined them, with newer phones promising long-term software support, giving buyers more options to choose from. 

This list covers recent models rather than older phones that still qualify for extended support, such as the Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24. There is also an important detail to keep in mind when comparing them: the seven-year period starts when a phone first goes on sale, not when you buy it. 

Google counts from the Pixel’s first sale through the US Google Store, while Samsung counts from the first sale date. A phone released several months ago will therefore have less support time remaining than a newer model.

Best overall

The Google Pixel 11 starts at $899 and gets seven years of Android OS upgrades, security updates, and Pixel Drops, with support scheduled to continue through August 2033. 

It ships with Android 17, Google’s Tensor G6 chip, and a Titan M3 security chip. Google also promises seven years of spare parts, giving owners the option to replace components such as the battery rather than buy a new phone when the original starts wearing out.

The phone keeps the familiar 6.3-inch design of its predecessor instead of introducing a major redesign. Its software support is another advantage, as Google delivers Android updates and security patches directly without waiting for a carrier or another manufacturer to approve them.

Best big-screen Pixel

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL starts at $1,299 for the 12GB/256GB model, making it $100 more expensive than the Pixel 10 Pro XL was at launch. Its larger 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and has a claimed peak brightness of 3,600 nits. 

It is powered by a 5,115mAh battery with 45W wired charging, while its rear camera system combines a 50MP main sensor with a 48MP telephoto camera. The Pro models also include Wi-Fi 7 and ultra-wideband connectivity.

As you can guess, software support matches the smaller Pixel 11, with updates scheduled through August 2033. That makes the Pro XL worth considering if you want a larger screen without giving up Google’s full update commitment.

Best premium Samsung

Samsung promises seven years of updates on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, making it eligible for OS upgrades until Android 23—security patches follow suit. Samsung also delivers smaller One UI updates between major Android releases.

The phone has a 6.9-inch display, a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and an S Pen for writing, drawing, and other tasks. Its privacy display mode limits visibility from off-axis viewing angles, adding another feature for people who regularly use their phones in public. The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at $1,299.

Samsung launched the phone in February, meaning its seven-year support period began roughly six months before the Pixel 11’s. Its support will therefore end around February 2033, earlier than Google’s August 2033 deadline. Our Galaxy S26 vs S26+ vs S26 Ultra breakdown covers the differences between Samsung’s flagship models.

Best Samsung value

Samsung announced the Galaxy S26 FE in August and began selling it in markets in September. It has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an Exynos 2500 processor, and 8GB of RAM. A 4,900mAh battery supports 45W wired charging.

The phone runs One UI 9 based on Android 17 and qualifies for seven years of OS upgrades and security patches. Samsung has priced it $50 higher than the Galaxy S25 FE in international markets, but it remains a more affordable way to get Samsung’s extended software support than buying the S26 Ultra.

Best budget

At $499, the Google Pixel 10a is the least expensive phone on this list. It went on sale in March and qualifies for seven years of OS upgrades, security updates, and Pixel Drops, much like the Pixel 11. 

The phone has a 6.3-inch Actua display, a 5,100mAh battery, IP68 water and dust resistance, and Gorilla Glass 7i protection. Much of its hardware carries over from the Pixel 9a, so the extended software support is one of the main reasons to consider it.

Its camera performance is less impressive, however. DxOMark’s testing placed the Pixel 10a below the Pixel 8a and iPhone 15. If camera quality is a priority, we recommend going through reviews before making the decision. 

Best flagship outside the US

The Motorola Signature is the company’s first phone with a seven-year update commitment, covering seven Android OS upgrades and seven years of security patches through early 2033. It starts at €999 in Europe and £899 in the UK, although Motorola does not sell it in the US.

Its specifications include a 6.8-inch display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and a 5,200mAh battery. It also supports fast 90W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The phone also carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for protection against dust and water, along with a near-stock version of Android.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 sits below the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Galaxy S26 Ultra. In Motorola’s defense, the price is lower too. 

Best foldable in Europe

The Honor Magic V6 has a 6.52-inch cover display and a 7.95-inch inner screen, giving it a large display for multitasking when unfolded. It runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and packs a 6,660mAh battery. The phone also carries IP68 and IP69 ratings.

In Europe, Honor sells it in a 16GB/512GB configuration for €2,299.99. The UK price is £1,999.99.

What’s interesting in this case is that Honor commits to seven years of software updates for Magic phones sold in the EU and UK. However, support in other markets depends on the region or market. For instance, Malaysia and Singapore get six years of commitment. 

Google and Samsung also have competing foldables—the Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. You can also see how the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra compares with the Honor Magic V6.

Best for repairs

Fairphone launched the Fairphone Gen 6+ in August for €649, and you can now buy the smartphone officially in the US too. It ships with 12GB of RAM, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, plus the modular design of the Fairphone Gen 6. The device boots on Android 16 and comes with a five-year warranty. The company promises software updates until at least 2033.

As is usual for every Fairphone, its main appeal is repairability rather than raw performance. The replaceable components and long warranty may help owners keep the phone for longer, particularly if they prefer fixing individual parts instead of replacing the entire device.

Which one should you buy?

The best choice depends on how much you want to spend and which features matter most. The Google Pixel 11 series has support scheduled through August 2033, giving it the latest end date among the phones listed here. The standard Pixel 11 is the more affordable flagship option, while the $499 Pixel 10a brings the same seven-year update commitment to a lower price, with some compromises in camera performance.

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 FE also qualify for seven years of updates. The Ultra is better suited to buyers who want the S Pen and Samsung’s premium features, while the FE provides a more affordable entry point.

Outside the US, the Motorola Signature is another premium Android option, and the Honor Magic V6 brings extended support to foldable phones in Europe and the UK. 

Finally, the Fairphone Gen 6+ is the choice for people who want to repair their phones rather than replace them when a component fails. Whichever model you choose, check the actual support end date and local update policy before buying. Seven years of promised updates can mean different amounts of time remaining, depending on when and where you purchase the phone.

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More leaks about Samsung’s next mid-range phones are rolling in. Right after similar details surfaced for the Galaxy A58, fresh info suggests the more affordable Galaxy A38 will follow a very familiar path when it launches next year.

According to Dutch site GalaxyClub, the A38 is expected to carry the same camera setup as the current Galaxy A37: a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and a 12MP front shooter.

As usual with these early leaks, we’re only getting megapixel counts for now. It’s still unclear whether Samsung plans to put newer sensors behind those figures.

This fits the broader pattern Samsung seems to be following with its 2027 A-series cameras: keep the hardware familiar and let any real improvements come from software, better processing, or image tuning. Upgrades are more likely to show up elsewhere, maybe the processor, battery, display, or overall system feel, though solid details on those parts haven’t leaked yet.

Pricing has been creeping up too. In Europe, the Galaxy A36 launched in 2025 starting around €379. The A37 arrived this year at €429 and has since seen its official price climb to €469 in some markets. Some people are already guessing the A38 could edge closer to the €500 mark when it arrives, partly because of rising component costs (especially memory).

Both the A38 and A58 are expected sometime in the March–April 2027 window, right after the Galaxy S27 series drops. The repeated camera setup might feel underwhelming if you were hoping for a bigger hardware jump, but it lines up with how Samsung has been handling this segment lately, focusing more on software support, build quality, and smaller refinements elsewhere. Clearer specs should start appearing as development moves along and the launch gets closer.

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(Source: GalaxyClub)

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Fresh details on Samsung’s next mid-range phone are starting to surface, and the camera setup looks… familiar.

According to Dutch site GalaxyClub, the Galaxy A58 5G is expected to stick with the exact same megapixel count as the current A57: a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and a 12MP selfie shooter. Just to be clear, this is only about resolution numbers so far, no confirmed sensor sizes, apertures, or actual hardware changes. Samsung could still upgrade or even downgrade the sensors behind those numbers. That said, no groundbreaking change is expected.

The part that stands out is that 5MP macro lens. That exact type of camera first showed up on the Galaxy A51 all the way back in 2020. If the A58 launches in early 2027 like most sources are predicting (March or April), Samsung will have been using basically the same low-res macro shooter on its mid-rangers for around seven years. And once again, there’s no dedicated telephoto in the mix, just the main, ultrawide, and that close-up lens.

For context, the Galaxy A57 launched this spring with a 50MP main sensor (1/1.56-inch class with OIS), 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and 12MP front camera. So the A58 matching those numbers feels like a clear “don’t fix what isn’t broken… or at least don’t spend more money” strategy. Reports say Samsung started hardware work on the A58 a couple of months ago and has recently moved into software development. It’s expected to ship with Android 17 and One UI 9.5, which would at least give it a software advantage even if the cameras stay the same.

Rising component costs, especially memory chips, are being blamed for manufacturers holding back on upgrades in this price range. For buyers, the leak basically suggests the A58 will offer a known photographic experience rather than anything transformative. Some improvements are more likely to come from better processing and new One UI features.

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(Source: GalaxyClub)

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The upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra could see a significant change in its chipset strategy. The flagship phone is expected to use Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon processor, but reported overheating issues could complicate that plan. Samsung may turn to its own Exynos 2700 chip if the problems remain unresolved.

Snapdragon overheating issues put Exynos 2700 in the picture

According to South Korea’s Seoul Economic Daily, Samsung has encountered overheating and performance throttling issues while testing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. The processor reportedly exceeded temperature limits during sustained workloads, causing processing speeds to drop. Samsung is said to have asked Qualcomm to address the problems by mid-October, although both companies are continuing to work on improvements.

If Qualcomm cannot meet Samsung’s thermal stability and performance requirements, the company may consider its in-house Exynos 2700 as an alternative. The chip is being developed by Samsung’s System LSI division and manufactured using Samsung Foundry’s second-generation 2nm SF2P process. It is designed to improve computing performance and power efficiency compared with its predecessor.

An Exynos-powered Galaxy S27 Ultra would represent a major comeback for Samsung’s in-house processors in its premium smartphone range. The Galaxy S22 Ultra was the last Ultra model to offer an Exynos variant, with the Exynos 2200 appearing in European models in 2022. Samsung switched to Snapdragon processors across global markets for the Galaxy S23 Ultra and subsequent generations.

However, a global Exynos-only strategy remains unconfirmed. An earlier report suggested that Samsung was considering Exynos 2700 versions for selected markets, including South Korea, while retaining Snapdragon variants in the US. The latest overheating report does not establish whether Samsung intends to adopt Exynos worldwide or maintain a regional split.

The decision also has financial implications. Samsung’s mobile AP purchasing costs reached 13.83 trillion won in 2025, according to Seoul Economic Daily. Greater use of Exynos could reduce reliance on external chip suppliers and improve utilisation of Samsung’s advanced manufacturing facilities.

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Shopping for a foldable phone in 2026 means looking beyond Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series. Apple has entered the market with the iPhone Duo, Google has updated its Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and Honor’s Magic V6 brings a 6,660mAh battery to its book-style design. Samsung has also split its Fold lineup, giving buyers a choice between the taller Z Fold 8 Ultra and the wider, shorter Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Each phone approaches the foldable experience a little differently. Some prioritize a large inner display and multitasking, while others put more emphasis on battery life, cameras, or a familiar software experience. There is also a considerable difference in what you’ll pay, particularly if you’re considering Apple’s first foldable or Samsung’s top-end model. 

Here are the five foldable phones worth considering in 2026.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra keeps the tall, narrow design Samsung introduced with last year’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, now under a new name. Its 8-inch inner display gives users plenty of room for multitasking, while the 6.5-inch cover screen handles everyday tasks without requiring the phone to be unfolded. Both displays support 120Hz refresh rates, and the inner panel reaches 3,000 nits of peak brightness. Samsung has also added an anti-reflective coating to the inner screen.

The phone runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage. It ships with Android 17 and One UI 9, bringing Samsung’s software features to the larger folding display.

Camera hardware is another major part of the package. The rear setup includes a 200MP main camera with 2x optical-quality zoom, a 50MP ultra-wide camera that replaces last year’s 12MP sensor, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x zoom. Both displays also have their own 10MP selfie cameras.

Samsung has increased battery capacity to 5,000mAh, up from 4,400mAh on the Fold 7, although charging speeds remain at 45W wired and 20W wireless. The phone weighs 215g and measures 4.1mm thick when unfolded and 8.9mm when folded, keeping its weight close to that of its predecessor.

All of this comes at a high price. In the US, the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version costs $2,099, while the 512GB model is priced at $2,299. Buyers who need more memory and storage can get the 16GB RAM and 1TB version for $2,699, making it the most expensive phone on this list.

The price also makes durability worth considering. The phone is the first large-screen Samsung foldable to fail JerryRigEverything’s durability test, and Samsung’s official screen replacement prices reach $639 if the inner display is damaged. The launch coverage has the remaining specifications.

Those who prefer a wider, shorter design can save some money with Samsung’s standard Galaxy Z Fold 8. It starts at $1,899.99, weighs 201g, and has a 7.6-inch inner display. Its rear camera system uses two 50MP sensors but lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.

Apple iPhone Duo

Apple’s first foldable gives iPhone users a way to move to a larger screen without leaving iOS. The company unveiled the iPhone Duo on September 9, with pre-orders opening on October 16. Sales begin on October 23 in more than 70 countries and regions, followed by another 28 markets on October 30.

Apple has priced the phone close to Samsung’s premium foldables. The 256GB model costs $1,999, the 512GB version costs $2,199, and the 1TB model comes in at $2,599. At the top of the range, the 2TB version costs $3,199. The starting price is $100 below the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and $100 above the standard Galaxy Z Fold 8. 

The iPhone Duo has a 7.6-inch folding OLED display inside and a 5.4-inch OLED screen on the outside. Both support 120Hz ProMotion and reach 3,000 nits of peak brightness. Apple has also used a nano-texture finish on the inner display to reduce glare. Early hands-on reports suggest the matte finish makes the crease difficult to see, while the selfie camera beneath the display is barely noticeable when not in use.

The frame and hinge cover use grade 5 titanium, with Ceramic Shield glass on the front and back. The phone also has an IP68 rating. However, its build comes with a trade-off: at 254g, it is considerably heavier than Samsung’s standard Galaxy Z Fold 8, which weighs 201g. The iPhone Duo measures 11.3mm when closed and 5.2mm when open.

Apple has made a few other choices worth knowing about before buying. Touch ID is built into the side button, with no Face ID support, and the phone uses eSIM exclusively rather than offering a physical SIM tray. Apple Pencil support is also due later this year.

Powering the phone is Apple’s A20 Pro chip, with a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU, and vapor chamber cooling. The iPhone Duo runs iOS 27 and has two 48MP rear cameras for main and ultra-wide photography. It supports up to 2x optical-quality zoom but does not include a dedicated telephoto camera. A 12MP front camera handles selfies.

Apple has split the battery between the phone’s two halves and rates it for up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display or up to 44 hours on the outer display. Fast wired charging can bring the battery to around 50 percent in roughly 20 minutes, and MagSafe wireless charging is supported.

The larger screen also brings changes to iOS. Version 27 adds split-screen apps, drag-and-drop between applications, and saved app pairs, making it easier to use two apps together on the folding display.

Honor Magic V6

For anyone who would rather have a larger battery than a thinner spec sheet, the Honor Magic V6 is worth a look. Its global version packs a 6,660mAh silicon-carbon battery, the largest among the book-style foldables covered here. It supports 80W wired charging and 66W wireless charging, while Chinese versions come with even larger 6,850mAh and 7,150mAh batteries.

The phone also has a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip paired with 16GB of RAM. Its 7.95-inch inner display runs at 2172 x 2352 resolution, while the cover screen measures about 6.5 inches. On the software side, it uses MagicOS 10 based on Android 16.

Honor has made several claims about the phone’s durability, too. The Magic V6 carries IP68 and IP69 ratings, and its hinge uses steel rated at 2,800MPa. According to Honor, the hinge has been tested for 500,000 folds, while the crease is 44 percent shallower than on the previous Magic V5.

Despite the large battery, the phone remains relatively thin. It measures 4.1mm when unfolded and between 8.8mm and 9mm when folded, depending on the version, with weight ranging from 219g to 224g. 

The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 64MP periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and CIPA 6.5 stabilization. Both displays have 20MP selfie cameras. 

Availability is the main hurdle for buyers outside China. Honor does not sell the Magic V6 in the US, and prices in other markets are considerably higher than its Chinese starting price of ¥8,999. In the Philippines, it costs ₱119,999, or roughly $2,140, while the price in South Africa is R40,000. Even at those prices, it can be considerably cheaper than Samsung’s top model. Our comparison with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra puts the price difference at about $800 in Honor’s favor.

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold

Google’s Pixel 11 Pro Fold takes a different approach from Samsung’s foldables, pairing a large folding display with Google’s version of Android and a long software support commitment. It starts at $1,899 for 256GB of storage, which is $100 more than the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s starting price. The 512GB model costs $2,019, while the 1TB version is priced at $2,249.

Every configuration comes with 16GB of RAM and Google’s Tensor G6 chip. The phone ships with Android 17, and Google promises seven years of operating system updates, security updates, and Pixel Drops. Buyers can choose between Obsidian and Olive color options.

Google has also reduced the phone’s weight and thickness. At 239g, it is lighter than the previous model’s 258g, while its body measures 10.1mm when folded and 5mm when unfolded. The inner display measures 8 inches, and the cover screen is 6.5 inches. Both reach 3,600 nits of peak brightness, which Google says is about 20 percent higher than on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold retains an IP68 rating, and Google describes its new construction as three times stronger than the previous generation. Battery capacity has gone in the opposite direction, dropping from 5,015mAh to 4,806mAh. Google still quotes more than 24 hours of battery life, with 30W wired charging capable of reaching 50 percent in 30 minutes. Qi2.2 magnetic wireless charging is also supported at up to 25W.

For photography, the phone has a 48MP main camera, a 10.5MP ultra-wide camera and a 10.8MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. Each display also gets a 10MP selfie camera. Google has added HiLight to the Pixel 11 Pro series, a customizable notification light on the back of the phone.

Our Pixel 11 Pro Fold launch piece details the changes from last year’s model. If you’re deciding between Google’s foldable and Samsung’s wider Fold, our Pixel 11 Pro Fold vs Galaxy Z Fold 8 comparison details their specifications, cameras, and prices.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8

Not everyone needs a tablet-sized screen in their pocket. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 folds a regular-sized smartphone in half, making it a more compact alternative to the book-style models on this list. It starts at $1,199.99, which is $100 more than the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Samsung has made the new model thinner and lighter than any previous Flip. It weighs 180g and measures 6.1mm thick when unfolded, compared with 6.5mm for the Flip 7. The phone has a 6.9-inch inner display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 4.1-inch cover screen. Its frame uses Armor Aluminum, and it carries an IP48 rating.

The cover screen gets much of the attention in this generation. Gemini can launch supported tasks directly from the smaller display, while Now Brief shows personalized cards. Users can also create custom cards with text prompts, allowing them to tailor the information displayed without opening the phone.

The hardware changes are more modest. The battery remains at 4,300mAh, with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. Samsung has also kept the same 50MP main camera and 12MP ultra-wide camera from last year’s model.

The processor depends on where you buy the phone. Some markets get the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, while others receive Samsung’s Exynos 2600. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 runs Android 17 with One UI 9, and Samsung lists support for up to seven major OS updates. As with the other recent Samsung phones, there is no charger in the box, and the phone lacks an SD card slot.

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 went up for pre-order in July and began shipping on August 7. If you’re upgrading from a Flip 7, our Flip 8 vs Flip 7 upgrade piece explains what has changed. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 vs Motorola Razr Ultra 2026 comparison is also worth checking if you’re considering a rival flip with a bigger battery and faster charging.

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After a delayed start to the Android 17 rollout, Samsung has done a pretty good job expanding it to other Galaxy devices at a faster pace. The update is now available for the oldest eligible Galaxy flagships, along with a couple of mid-range and cheaper Galaxy phones.

Currently, these Galaxy devices are getting the Android 17 update:

Galaxy S series

• Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra, and S26 FE
• Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 FE, and S25 Edge
• Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, and S24 FE
• Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra

Galaxy Z series

• Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7
• Galaxy Z TriFold
• Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6
• Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5

Galaxy A series

• Galaxy A57 and A56
• Galaxy A37 and A36
• Galaxy A27

We’ll update the list as Samsung rolls out the update to more Galaxy devices.

The rollout already covers all eligible high-end smartphones, and so the focus is now shifting towards bringing the update to mid-range and budget devices. Interestingly, Samsung hasn’t yet begun the rollout to any Galaxy tablets, which usually doesn’t take that long. Hopefully, users won’t have to wait much longer.

Remember that the rollout happens in batches, and so the update may take some time to reach all the users. If you haven’t received it but the model is on the above list, you should be enjoying the new software soon. To check for updates manually, go to Settings > Software updates and tap Download and install.

If you’re unsure whether your Samsung Galaxy device is eligible for Android 17, check the list of eligible devices on this page. And keep visiting the News section for fresh information. For real-time updates, you can join our Telegram channel.

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After years of steady, incremental changes, it looks like the company is planning something more ambitious. Recent reports suggest Samsung is working on a pretty substantial overhaul of its software experience.

The project is reportedly being talked about internally as either One UI 10 or Galaxy OS, and it’s expected to show up with the Galaxy S28 series. The timing makes sense too: One UI will be hitting its tenth anniversary around then, and Samsung doesn’t usually let milestones like that go by without making some kind of statement.

According to leaker phonefuturist, Samsung is working closely with Google on deeper AI integration. The idea isn’t just to bolt on more AI tools, but to weave intelligence more deeply into the operating system itself. At the same time, the plans apparently include paid third-party integrations. So it sounds like a two-track approach: solid system-level AI features that come with the phone, plus optional partner services that might cost extra.

One UI has come a long way over the past 7 years. It’s polished and packed with features, but a lot of longtime users have also pointed out that it’s gotten denser and more crowded. A real rethink could be exactly what some people have been hoping for.

Samsung isn’t backing away from AI, even with all the talk of AI fatigue and pushback. Galaxy AI features keep expanding: writing help, photo editing, translation, contextual assistance – and the big question that’s been hanging around is which of these will stay free and which might eventually move behind a subscription or paid partnership.

Nothing is official yet, of course, and plans can still change a lot before the Galaxy S28 arrives. For now, these reports just give us an early look at the direction Samsung seems to be heading: a version of One UI that digs deeper into AI than anything before it, right as the interface itself turns ten.

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(Source: @phonefuturist)

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The Galaxy S27 Ultra could get a smarter version of one of Samsung’s coolest privacy tricks. Early word is that the phone will come with “Privacy Display v2”.

For anyone who missed it: the original Privacy Display uses Samsung Display’s Flex Magic Pixel tech to shrink the viewing angles. Look at the screen straight on and everything’s clear. Peek from the side and the display dims so bystanders can’t easily read what’s on it. You can turn it on for the whole screen or just for notifications and sensitive apps.

According to tipster Sawyergalox, the upgraded version is coming to both the Galaxy S27 Ultra and the new Galaxy S27 Pro. That’s a bigger rollout than the first generation got.

The big reason for the upgrade? Turning Privacy Display on makes the screen look softer, less sharp, and generally lower-quality even when you’re looking at it head-on. The privacy part works great, but the picture quality takes a hit.

The new version is supposed to fix that with three main improvements:

• Better viewing angles
• Higher resolution while the feature is on
• Clearer, sharper image quality overall

If it delivers, you’ll be able to leave Privacy Display switched on without feeling like you’re sacrificing everyday screen performance.

The same tipster also floated a price estimate. They’re guessing a US starting price somewhere in the $1,400–$1,500 range. The launch window is looking like February 2027, running One UI 9.5 based on Android 17. Expanding and refining Privacy Display would be a nice step forward for a feature that’s already pretty unique.

Of course, this is all still unofficial and based on tipster reports, so things could change before the real announcement.

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(Source: @Sawyergalox)

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Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S12+ is $1,199.99 on Amazon right now, and Amazon throws in a free $200 Amazon gift card. That is the 256GB WiFi model in Gray, sold and shipped by Amazon. The tablet went on sale on 7 October, so it is six days old, and $1,199.99 is its launch price. The price has not moved. The deal is the gift card on top. You also get 30% off the keyboard if you bundle it with the tablet as of October 21.

Check Galaxy Tab S12+ Bundle on Amazon

Amazon calls it a “Launch bundle” and a “Limited Prime deal”, and the listing says the gift card offer runs until 21 October. You will also see a “bundle list price” of $1,399.99. That figure is the tablet and the gift card added together. Here’s the thing: if you shop on Amazon anyway, that $200 comes back to you, so the Tab S12+ bundle works out to $999.99 in practice.

The 512GB WiFi model is $1,399, also its launch price, and it gets the same $200 gift card. The listing also offers the tablet alone, or a bundle that adds 30% off the Samsung Pro keyboard.

Should you buy the Tab S12+ now?

If you shop on Amazon, then yes. A six-day-old flagship tablet at launch price with $200 back is the best way to buy a Tab S12+ before Black Friday. Launch bundles like this usually end on the stated date. After 21 October, expect a plain $1,199.99 again. Buy the 256GB with the gift card. Skip the keyboard bundle unless you already wanted the Pro keyboard.

What you get

The Plus has a 12.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen at 2800 x 1752 and 120Hz. Inside is the MediaTek Dimensity 9500, the chip that appeared in a Tab S12 Ultra Geekbench listing in August, with 12GB of RAM. The battery is 10,600mAh, a bigger cell than the Tab S11’s. It is IP68 rated, and the S Pen comes in the box.

Now the downsides. The design is carried over from the Tab S11 series, and when the tablets leaked in August we said they looked very familiar. They still do. And 45W wired charging is slow for a 10,600mAh cell.

The 14.6-inch Tab S12 Ultra launched at $1,399.99 and gets four speakers, an 11,600mAh battery and 13MP plus 8MP rear cameras, where the Plus has two speakers and a single 13MP camera. The Amazon gift card bundle is for the Plus, not the Ultra.

Other Samsung and Google deals on Amazon

• Galaxy S26 Ultra 256GB, Black is $1,049.99. Its list price is $1,399.99 after Samsung’s 1 October US price hike, and it launched at $1,299.99.
• Google Pixel Watch 3 is $199.99, down from a $399.99 list price, if you are not tied to Samsung.

Check Galaxy S26 Ultra Price on Amazon

Read more

• Best Samsung Galaxy Tab S series compared: Which tablet is right for you?
• Best Flagship Tablets of 2026
• Samsung India unveils exciting offers on Galaxy tablets, smartwatches, and earbuds

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If you’ve got a Galaxy A57 and the One UI 9.0 update is sitting there waiting to be installed, maybe give it a miss for now.

Early reports are coming in that the new update (the big Android 17-based one) is leaving some phones struggling to start up properly. What should have been a normal upgrade is turning into a headache for a chunk of owners.

The problem started showing up once Samsung began rolling out the stable One UI 9.0 version outside South Korea. Over there the phone is called the Galaxy Quantum 7 and it got the update earlier without the same wave of complaints. The European and other international versions have been a different story.

According to people on Reddit and X, the issue seems tied to an XML file error. Affected phones can get stuck showing an error screen, sometimes “Access Denied”, sometimes just a raw XML document tree, and they won’t get past the One UI 9 intro or setup screens.

The good news is it’s not happening to everyone. Plenty of A57 owners have updated with no issue at all. The bad news is there’s no way of knowing in advance whether your phone will be one of the unlucky ones.

Samsung hasn’t put out any detailed statement yet about what’s causing it or when a proper fix is coming. Until they do, the general advice from the community is pretty simple: if you haven’t updated yet, wait.

If you’re already stuck, a few people have found a temporary workaround that got their phones working again:

1. Hold the Power and Volume Down buttons together until the power menu appears.
2. Long-press the Power Off option until the Safe Mode prompt shows up.
3. Choose Safe Mode and let the phone restart.
4. Once you’re in Safe Mode, just restart the phone normally.

A number of users say doing this once was enough to get past the error and back to normal use. It’s completely unofficial though, so results can vary. Right now, the new features probably aren’t worth the risk of ending up with a phone that won’t boot properly.

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(Source: Reddit | @fahadalijaved on X)

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If you’ve been eyeing a mid-range Samsung phone in India, the prices just went up again. The company has quietly raised the official rates on three popular models this month, continuing a trend of upward revisions across its budget and mid-tier lineup.

Starting mid-October 2026, Samsung increased the prices of the Galaxy A27, Galaxy M47, and Galaxy F70 Pro by Rs 2,000 across all variants. Tipster Sanju Choudhary first spotted the change through internal retail communications.

The Galaxy M47 and F70 Pro (which share a lot of the specifications) now start at Rs 37,999 for the 6GB/128GB version, up from Rs 35,999. The 8GB/128GB jumps from Rs 39,999 to Rs 41,999, and the 8GB/256GB goes from Rs 44,999 to Rs 46,999.

The Galaxy A27, the more lifestyle-focused A-series option with the same Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chip, follows the exact same pattern. Its 6GB/128GB model rises from Rs 33,999 to Rs 35,999, the 8GB/128GB from Rs 40,999 to Rs 42,999, and the 8GB/256GB from Rs 45,499 to Rs 47,499.

That said, interested buyers still have a short window. The prices are already updated on the official Samsung India website, which confirms this isn’t a false alarm. Flipkart and Amazon are still showing the older rates for now, but it’s only a matter of time before they follow suit, likely once existing stock sells out.

Some physical retailers may also be clearing older inventory during festive sales, and bank offers or extra discounts can still bring the effective cost down. If you’re planning to buy one of these Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 models, it’s worth checking the current prices soon before the older rates disappear.

This isn’t a one-off. Over the past few weeks and months, Samsung has already hiked prices on several other Galaxy A and M series phones, including models in the A17 and M17 ranges. The M47 and F70 Pro themselves saw a Rs 3,000 increase back in September, so the cumulative rise is now well above their original launch prices. Other brands like OPPO and Vivo have made similar moves, pointing to wider pressure from rising component and manufacturing costs.

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(Sources: Samsung | @saaaanjjjuuu on X)

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Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra is $1,049.99 on Amazon as of Tuesday morning US time. That is the 256GB unlocked model in Black, the US version with a one-year US warranty. Amazon shows it at 25% off a list price of $1,399.99. The 512GB model is $1,399.99, with a list price of $1,599.99.

Check Galaxy S26 Ultra Price on Amazon

Here’s the thing about that list price. The S26 Ultra launched at $1,299.99 for 256GB in February. On 1 October, Samsung raised US prices to $1,399.99 for 256GB, $1,599.99 for 512GB and $1,999.99 for 1TB, and reports put it down to the memory shortage. We reported the hike was coming back in September. So today’s price is $350 below the new list price and $250 below the launch price.

Is it the lowest so far? No. During Prime Big Deal Days, 6 to 8 October, Amazon had the 256GB Black at $949.99. Today it is $100 more.

Only Black gets the deal. Cobalt Violet is the cheapest of the other colours at $1,152.77, and Sky Blue is the dearest at $1,187.55. You may also spot a $959 “Version Latina” listing (model SM-S948BZ, sold by CellOne) but it is a Latin American import with no US warranty, so we would leave that one alone.

Should you buy it at $1,049.99?

This is a fair price, not a great one. If you need a phone this month, buy the Black now. Samsung’s new list price has moved the floor up, and the memory shortage is pushing prices one way. If you can wait about six weeks, Black Friday is the next realistic shot at $949.99.

The phone itself is unchanged. The 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED runs at 120Hz, peaks at 2,600 nits and adds a Privacy Display under Gorilla Armor 2, all in a 7.9mm body. Inside is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with 12GB of RAM. The 200MP main camera sits next to a 50MP ultrawide, a 50MP 5x periscope and a 10MP 3x telephoto, and it shoots 8K video at 30fps. The S Pen is still built in, and Samsung promises seven major Android updates.

Now the rivals. The Pixel 11 Pro 256GB is $899 on Amazon today, down from a $1,099 list price, and our Pixel 11 Pro vs Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison covers what the extra $150 gets you. The iPhone 18 Pro costs about $1,200. If charging speed matters most, the Vivo X500 Pro Max is the $1,000 Chinese flagship we put against it, though it is not sold on Amazon US. We also compared it with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in March.

On an S25 Ultra? Read our S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra breakdown before you upgrade.

Other Samsung and Google deals on Amazon

A few related prices, also as of this morning.

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ 256GB WiFi at $1,199.99 with a free $200 Amazon gift card. The list price is $1,399.99, and Amazon marks it as a “Limited Prime deal”.
• Galaxy Watch 7 is back to $249. Its Prime Day price of $159 is gone.
• Google Pixel Watch 3 at $199.99, down from a $399.99 list price, if you are not tied to Samsung.

Check Galaxy Tab S12+ Price on Amazon

Honestly, the gift card is the better part of the tablet deal. If you shop on Amazon anyway, it brings the Tab S12+ down to $999.99 in practice.

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The OnePlus 16 has arrived in China with flagship hardware, including a high-refresh-rate display, a massive battery, and upgraded cameras. However, its availability outside China remains a concern, particularly after OnePlus withdrew from the US and European markets, with no confirmed launch date for the new flagship in India.

Although OnePlus India has previously said its local operations continue as usual, buyers looking for a phone they can purchase through official channels may want to consider alternatives. Here are five flagship smartphones worth considering instead of the OnePlus 16.

iQOO 16

The iQOO 16 is a compelling alternative for users who prioritize performance and gaming, featuring a 6.85-inch Samsung M16 AMOLED display with a 2K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, built on a 2nm process, works alongside a dedicated Q4 gaming chip and an advanced vapor chamber cooling system to support demanding workloads.

The phone packs an 8,400mAh silicon-anode battery, which is larger than the capacity found in many conventional flagship smartphones, and supports 100W wired charging and 40W wireless charging. This combination should appeal to users who spend long hours gaming or streaming and want to minimize charging interruptions.

On the rear, the iQOO 16 features a 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization, a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera, and a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera. A 32-megapixel front camera handles selfies and video calls, making the phone a well-rounded choice beyond its gaming credentials.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Max

The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max offers a different flagship experience, with a 6.9-inch AMOLED display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision support, and a reported peak brightness of 4,000 nits. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset, placing it in the same high-performance category as the OnePlus 16 while emphasizing a more balanced flagship experience.

A large 8,500mAh silicon-carbon battery powers the device, with support for 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. What sets it apart from the other phones on this list is its 2.9-inch rear display, which can be used to view notifications, check the time, control music playback, and access select features without turning on the main screen.

The camera system comprises a 200-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera offering 3.2x optical zoom. A 50-megapixel front camera completes the setup, giving the phone considerable flexibility for landscape photography, portraits, and selfies.

Oppo Find X10 Pro Max

The Oppo Find X10 Pro Max is worth considering for users who place camera capabilities high on their list of priorities, with a reported 6.9-inch AMOLED display featuring a 165Hz refresh rate and a 2K resolution. Its MediaTek Dimensity 9600 Pro chipset, manufactured using a 2nm process, is designed to deliver flagship-level performance alongside improved power efficiency.

The phone is equipped with an 8,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, offering substantial capacity for extended daily use, while reported charging specifications include 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.

The Find X10 Pro Max features a triple 200-megapixel rear camera system, bringing high-resolution sensors to the main, ultrawide, and telephoto cameras. On the front, it has an autofocus-enabled 50-megapixel selfie camera.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra features a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, making it suitable for gaming, streaming, and outdoor use. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.

The phone packs a 5,000mAh battery with support for 60W wired charging and 25W wireless charging, along with Wireless PowerShare for charging compatible accessories. Although its battery capacity is considerably lower than the OnePlus 16’s 9,000mAh unit, Samsung’s flagship offers a familiar premium experience with a focus on display quality, productivity, and software support.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra features a 200-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera, a 10-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. A 12-megapixel front camera handles selfies and video calls, while the rear camera system supports up to 100x digital zoom and 8K video recording at 30 frames per second.

OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 remains an alternative for buyers who want the OnePlus experience without depending on the newly launched OnePlus 16. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 165Hz gaming refresh rate and is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, offering strong performance for gaming and everyday tasks.

Its 7,300mAh battery supports 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, giving users a substantial power reserve and flexible charging options. While its battery is smaller than the OnePlus 16’s 9,000mAh unit, the OnePlus 15 remains a capable choice for those who do not necessarily need the latest generation.

The OnePlus 15 features a 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization, a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel ultrawide camera. Its front camera handles selfies and video calls, while the familiar OxygenOS experience may appeal to existing OnePlus users; availability and warranty support should nevertheless be checked in the buyer’s market.

The Vivo X500 Pro Max and Honor Magic 9 Pro are also worthy mentions for buyers seeking photography-focused flagship phones with advanced camera systems and versatile shooting capabilities.

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Samsung‘s next flagship phones are still months away, but as is usual in the smartphone world, we’ve been hearing about the Galaxy S27 series for a while now. The bigger change next season will be the introduction of Galaxy S27 Pro that sits above the Plus model, making the Galaxy S27 a four model line.

The Pro could bring much of the Ultra’s hardware to a smaller phone, while the Ultra is expected to retain the S Pen and a larger battery. The camera differences are less clear, and they could end up being the deciding factor between the two.

The Galaxy S27 Pro first appeared in the GSMA database in June, giving the rumor more weight after it showed up in the certification listing. All four Galaxy S27 models have since passed China’s 3C certification, earlier than the Galaxy S26 series did. As a result, a January 2027 launch is now a possibility, although Samsung hasn’t confirmed a date yet.

Nonetheless, we are here to compare the Galaxy S27 Pro with Ultra and to find which one might be worth waiting for.

What the two phones reportedly share

Samsung is likely giving the Galaxy S27 Pro a similar look to the Galaxy S27 Ultra, minus the S Pen. The CAD renders for the two phones show identical design with raised camera plateau on the back. Just that the Pro has a smaller footprint than the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

The two phones could also share much of their camera hardware. Both are tipped to feature Samsung’s new 200MP ISOCELL HP6 main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide camera and a 16MP selfie camera. They are also expected to use the newer M16 OLED panel. Meanwhile, all four Galaxy S27 models are reportedly getting Privacy Display, which is currently exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

The two phones may get same charging speed too. China’s 3C certification listings suggest the same 60W wired charging on both the Pro and Ultra. Wireless and reverse wireless charging are also expected across the S27 series, although Samsung is unlikely to include a charger in the box.

Where the Galaxy S27 Pro and Galaxy S27 Ultra differ

Size and S Pen

The Galaxy S27 Pro could be the better fit if you want a high-end Samsung phone without the size of an Ultra. According to reports, the device will feature 6.47 inches display, while the Galaxy S27 Ultra is expected to remain close to the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s dimensions. CAD renders suggest it will measure around 163.76 x 78.25 x 7.97mm.

The S Pen is another major difference. Samsung is expected to retain the stylus on the Galaxy S27 Ultra, while the Galaxy S27 Pro reportedly won’t support it. If you regularly use the pen for notes, sketches or other tasks, that alone could make the Ultra the better choice.

Zoom cameras

The biggest uncertainty so far is the telephoto setup, with different reports describing different hardware for both phones.

According to Korean outlet ETNews, the Galaxy S27 Pro will get a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. The Galaxy S27 Ultra, meanwhile, could lose its dedicated 3x camera and rely on cropping from its main sensor for mid-range zoom.

That isn’t the only version of the story. An earlier report suggested the Galaxy S27 Pro could use a 50MP telephoto camera with roughly 3.5x zoom, potentially giving it an advantage over the Ultra at the zoom levels people commonly use.

The Ultra’s long-range camera is still up in the air, too. A more recent leak says Samsung is testing a 50MP 4x telephoto camera with a 1/1.9-inch sensor to replace the current 5x periscope setup. Samsung reportedly has five prototypes under evaluation, and the existing 5x camera could stay if the new hardware doesn’t justify its cost.

For now, it’s too early to say which phone will have the better zoom camera. The final hardware matters more than the megapixel counts or zoom figures in these early reports.

Battery, chip and storage

The bigger the size of the S27 Ultra means it will also have a bigger battery. Based on certification listings, the Galaxy S27 Pro will have a 5,200mAh battery while the Ultra could get a 5,700mAh unit. The figures corroborate earlier battery leaks that raised questions about how Samsung would distinguish the two models.

The chipset situation could also matter, depending on where you buy the phone. The Galaxy S27 Ultra is expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 for Galaxy. One report claims the Galaxy S27 Pro will get a Snapdragon chip in select regions and Samsung’s Exynos 2700 in others.

A separate leak suggests the Pro may be available with 1TB of storage but only 12GB of RAM in that configuration. This would leave it behind the Galaxy S27 Ultra’s top configuration, though the final memory options haven’t been confirmed.

Price

As for the price, the Galaxy S27 Pro could launch at $1,299 in the US and the Galaxy S27 Ultra at $1,399. The Ultra could cost as much as $1,499 in some markets, reportedly. For comparison though, the Galaxy S26 Ultra currently sits at around $1,300.

Wait for the Galaxy S27 Pro if…

The Galaxy S27 Pro makes the most sense if you want the Ultra’s general design, main camera and display in a smaller phone, but don’t need an S Pen. Samsung’s current lineup doesn’t have a model between the Galaxy S26+ and Galaxy S26 Ultra that quite fits that description, so the Pro could fill that gap if the leaks prove accurate.

The reported $100 price difference in the US could be another reason to choose it. The camera hardware may also work in its favor, depending on which leak turns out to be correct. If the Pro gets a dedicated telephoto camera while the Ultra loses its 3x lens, it could be a better option for portraits and mid-range zoom shots.

The trade-offs are a smaller battery and potentially less RAM in the highest storage configuration. You’ll also need to consider the possibility of getting an Exynos chip instead of Snapdragon, depending on your region.

Wait for the Galaxy S27 Ultra if…

The Ultra is the safer choice if you use the S Pen, want the largest battery in the lineup or prefer a Snapdragon chip regardless of where you buy the phone. It’s also the model to watch if long-range photography is important to you, although Samsung’s final telephoto setup remains uncertain.

If you rely heavily on zoom between 3x and 5x, it’s worth waiting for confirmed camera specifications before deciding. Samsung could change the Ultra’s telephoto hardware, and that decision may have a bigger effect on your everyday photos than some of the other rumored upgrades.

Who shouldn’t wait

If you need a new phone now, there’s little reason to plan around a January launch that Samsung hasn’t confirmed. The early certifications make that timing possible, but they don’t guarantee it.

Galaxy S26 Ultra owners may also have less reason to wait than they initially think. The S27 Ultra’s rumored 60W charging isn’t an upgrade over the current model, and the proposed camera redesign could involve losing a dedicated lens. The new look has already drawn criticism from people who’ve seen the renders.

Based on the current leaks, a faster chip and a larger battery appear to be the clearest potential gains. Whether those changes are enough to justify upgrading will depend on the final specifications and pricing.

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Samsung might be about to flip its long-standing advice on what to do when your Galaxy Buds get too hot, and it’s probably worth more attention than it first sounds. There was a widely reported case involving a Galaxy Buds FE that allegedly exploded while being worn, with the user claiming it caused permanent hearing loss. So changing the official advice on what to do when they heat up isn’t just a small software detail.

For years, Samsung’s official guidance has been: if the earbuds start overheating, take them out of your ears and let them cool down in an open space. Support pages specifically warn against putting hot buds back into the charging case, because the enclosed space can trap heat around the batteries and make things worse. While they’re overheating, the buds usually keep beeping as a warning and stay powered on.

But new code spotted in Galaxy Buds app version 9.0.10.1724 suggests a different approach. One of the messages says: “Your earbuds will be turned off for your safety. Put both earbuds in the case and wait. You can use your earbuds again when they cool down.”

That points to two possible changes. First, the buds may automatically shut themselves off when they get too hot instead of just beeping. Second, Samsung would actually tell users to put them back in the case while they cool down.

Some analysts think newer Galaxy Buds models might have better battery management that can cut off charging current during thermal events. If that’s the case, putting them in the case could become the safer option because it wouldn’t keep feeding power to overheated batteries.

Samsung hasn’t confirmed anything or updated its support pages yet. Until they do, the old advice is still the safest bet. If your Galaxy Buds feel unusually hot or start beeping, take them out right away and let them cool completely in an open area before using them again or putting them back in the case.

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(Source)

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Samsung has posted strong smartphone sales numbers in the last few quarters, even beating Apple in the Q2 2026 to regain the top position, per data from Counterpoint research. That should mean strong profits, right? Well, not in this case, as it turns out the South Korean giant is reportedly making no profits from its smartphone business.

Even worse is that the current scenario is reportedly forcing Samsung to cut smartphone production by as much as 30%, and what’s to blame here: soaring prices of RAM and storage. The entire smartphone industry is feeling the pain because of the increasingly rising cost of components, and finding it difficult to maintain profitability.

According to a Money Today report, citing industry sources, the South Korean giant has asked its suppliers to reduce smartphone production by as much as 20–30% in Q4 of this year. According to the latest estimates, Samsung has had to pay around $145 per 12GB LPDDR5X RAM chip this year, which is nearly a 175% increase for that specific component compared to a year ago.

Prior to the cut in production, Samsung was planning to manufacture around 270 million smartphones this year, but now that figure could drop to somewhere around 200 million.

Samsung launched the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Z8 foldables with a higher price tag. Even after that, it increased the price of its latest flagships by up to $100. Older flagships and mid-range phones didn’t remain protected either. They have also faced sharp price rises in the recent past. Despite such price hikes, Samsung’s mobile division is struggling to make any profit.

Unfortunately, the struggle won’t end pretty soon, as DRAM prices for the third quarter are expected to rise another 20 percent and reach $180. This sharp rise in the component cost may be actually hurting the brand more to make more devices.

Samsung’s memory chip business is making record profits

Samsung’s mobile division reported the first-ever quarterly loss in its history in Q2 2026. The Device eXperience (DX) division reported a loss of around $544 million, with the mobile division alone accounting for about $476 million of that. Current market conditions suggest the mobile division will report even bigger losses in Q3 and Q4.

On the bright side, Samsung is generating record profits from its memory chip business. The DS Division, which is responsible for memory chips and semiconductors, delivered its biggest quarterly operating profit of KRW 53.7 trillion in Q1 2026.

In Q2 2026, the operating profit from the DS division rose sharply to a staggering KRW 89.2 trillion, surpassing NVIDIA to become the most profitable technology company in that quarter. For the third quarter, Samsung’s DS division is estimated to have exceeded an operating profit of over KRW 100 trillion.

We will keep you updated as new details emerge through our News section. Check back regularly for updates, or subscribe to our Telegram channel to get real-time alerts.

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Samsung looks like it’s finally ready to jump back into the over-ear headphone market after more than a decade away. A fresh leak points to a new product called Galaxy Studio that’s expected to go head-to-head with Apple’s AirPods Max when it eventually shows up.

The name dropped on X on October 8 from tipster @evowizz. This isn’t one of the biggest names in the leak world, but the account did correctly call Samsung’s first clip-on earbuds as the Galaxy Buds On before they were officially announced.

Samsung’s last real shot at mainstream over-ear headphones was the Level Over and Level On back in 2015. If Galaxy Studio is real, it’ll be the company’s first serious return to the category since then. Hints of the project actually started floating around in August 2026 through software code strings, internal codenames (including Galaxy H1), and graphics buried inside Samsung’s companion apps. Those early clues already pointed to a wireless over-ear design.

We still don’t have many solid details. What we do know is that these are expected to sit at the top of Samsung’s Galaxy audio lineup, which has mostly focused on in-ear and open-ear Buds so far. The “Studio” name suggests they’re aiming for higher-end sound and features to compete with the likes of Apple’s AirPods Max, Sony’s WH-1000XM series, and Bose’s QuietComfort line.

Some reports are floating the idea of an early 2027 debut, possibly alongside the Galaxy S27 series. One thing that feels pretty safe to expect is tight integration with the rest of the Galaxy ecosystem, including seamless pairing with phones, tablets, and other Samsung devices.

If the leak holds up, Galaxy Studio would give Samsung a proper full-size wireless option for longer listening sessions and expand its audio lineup beyond just earbuds.

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(Source)

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While Samsung may have initially struggled to push One UI 9.0, the rollout is now in full swing. Over a dozen Galaxy devices are now running the latest software, but still, there are many yet to be upgraded. However, the brand has already started testing One UI 9.5 extensively.

Samsung has been doing the One UI 9.5 internal testing for quite a while now, but that was mostly restricted to top-tier flagships, including the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Z8 series. But it has recently been spotted for the mid-range Galaxy A57 with the firmware version A576BXXU6CZJ1.

An even cheaper Galaxy A17 5G has just showed up on the company’s servers running One UI 9.5, identified by the firmware version A176BOXM8EZJ1.

Obviously, these are internal builds, which are not available for public testing. It also doesn’t mean that the update will be rolled out to these devices anytime soon, but it shows that Samsung is laying the groundwork well in advance.

What’s unusual though is that the brand usually starts testing the upcoming software on high-end devices before trickling down to mid-range and cheaper models. But the latter models have already gotten into the mix.

The Galaxy S26 series was the first to enter the One UI 9.5 internal testing a few months ago, then the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 followed last month, and now more affordable phones, such as the Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A17 5G, have started to show up with early builds. Expect more to follow in the coming week as we gear up for the stable release around February 2026 with the Galaxy S27 series.

We’ll keep you posted on the latest One UI developments right here in our News section. Be sure to check back regularly or join our Telegram channel for real-time updates!

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Fresh rumors about Samsung’s next Ultra flagship are starting to bubble up. According to tipster @WalleGalaxy and @kro_roe, the Galaxy S27 Ultra is sticking with the same 60W wired fast-charging we saw on the S26 Ultra.

The real change is in the charging algorithm. Samsung is apparently stretching out the time the phone can hold peak power in that 55–56W range during the early part of a charge. The result? Roughly a 2–3% improvement in overall charging speed compared to the previous generation.

It’s a pretty pragmatic approach: instead of just cranking up the max wattage, they’re trying to get more out of the power ceiling they already have. Reports also suggest the S27 Ultra could come with a bigger battery, around 5,700 mAh based on earlier certification and leak data, which makes that efficiency gain even more relevant, since a larger cell would normally take longer to fill.

On the camera side, the same sources say Samsung is finally tackling a long-standing complaint: lens flare. Older Galaxy phones have taken flak for those unwanted reflections and artifacts when you’re shooting toward bright lights, such as streetlamps, sunsets, and stage lights.

Rather than leaning hard on specialized optical coatings (the route some competitors take with Zeiss T* treatments), Samsung is reportedly testing AI processing that can spot and clean up those artifacts after the shot. Early prototype results, according to the tipsters, show the flare is almost completely gone, leaving much cleaner images.

This software-first approach fits the broader industry shift toward computational photography, and it could pair nicely with other rumored camera improvements like better highlight control and warmer color tuning. If the leaks pan out, more efficient power management plus AI-driven image cleanup could add up to a noticeably more polished Ultra experience when the Galaxy S27 series is expected to arrive in early 2027.

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(Sources: 1, 2)

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Well-known tipster Ice Universe says the standard color options will be black, blue, light pink, and white. These are the everyday finishes you’d normally find in stores and with carriers. He also mentioned a special violet shade, though it’s still unclear if that one will be limited or online-only.

For comparison, the current S26 Ultra sticks with black, cobalt violet, sky blue, and white as the main options, plus online exclusives like pink gold and silver shadow. Adding light pink as a regular color is a bit of a change of pace.

The whole Galaxy S27 lineup is expected to grow to four models this time: a 6.27″ Galaxy S27, a 6.66″ S27+, a new 6.47″ S27 Pro, and the big 6.89″ S27 Ultra. Both the Pro and Ultra are tipped to come with Privacy Display tech. The entire series has already cleared China’s CCC certification, and those filings show the Pro and Ultra supporting 60W wired charging (20V at 3A).

Battery is another point of interest. Earlier leaks and the CCC data point to the S27 Ultra packing roughly 5,700mAh (rated around 5,534mAh). That would make it Samsung’s highest-capacity flagship yet and a proper step up from the long-running ~5,000mAh Ultra batteries. On the camera side, the chatter is about warmer, more natural color tones and better control over highlights.

The steady stream of certification filings and tipster reports is starting to paint a clearer picture: a refreshed Ultra with wider color choices, a bigger battery, privacy screens on the higher models, and some iterative camera tweaks. The S27 series looks like it’ll keep Samsung’s usual annual evolution going.

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iPhone 18 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra represent two very different approaches to the premium smartphone. Apple focuses on a compact flagship experience, camera consistency, and deep video capabilities, while Samsung pushes a larger display, versatile cameras, S Pen functionality, and faster charging. This comparison matters for buyers deciding between Apple’s polished ecosystem and Samsung’s feature-heavy Android flagship.

Major Features:

Design and Display

Build and Feel

The iPhone 18 Pro combines Ceramic Shield 2 with an aluminum frame and glass rear panel, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra uses Gorilla Armor 2 on the front, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 at the back, and Armor Aluminum 2. Both offer IP68 protection. Samsung adds an S Pen, giving the Ultra a productivity advantage that the iPhone cannot match. Apple, however, feels more focused and pocket-friendly.

Display Quality

The iPhone uses a 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED with 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision and up to 3000 nits peak brightness. Samsung counters with a 6.9-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ and 2600 nits peak brightness. Samsung’s larger, higher-resolution screen is better for media and productivity, while Apple’s panel remains excellent for HDR content.

Verdict

Samsung wins for its larger, sharper display, anti-reflective treatment and S Pen functionality. Apple remains the better choice for buyers wanting a more compact flagship with excellent display quality.

Specifications Including Battery

Performance

The iPhone 18 Pro uses Apple’s 2nm A20 Pro chip with a six-core CPU and seven-core GPU, paired with 12GB RAM. The Galaxy S26 Ultra runs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, with an octa-core CPU and Adreno 840 GPU, offering up to 16GB RAM. Both are flagship-grade, but Apple’s silicon should appeal to users prioritizing efficiency and sustained ecosystem optimization.

Battery and Charging

Samsung packs a 5000mAh battery with 60W wired charging, 25W wireless charging and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. The iPhone uses a market-dependent battery rated at 4056mAh or 4288mAh, with 50% charging in 15 minutes and 25W MagSafe/Qi2 wireless charging. Samsung offers greater battery capacity and faster wired charging, making the Ultra more practical for heavy users.

Verdict

Samsung takes this round with its larger battery, faster wired charging and reverse wireless charging. Apple counters with efficient silicon and strong charging optimization, but Samsung offers the more complete hardware package.

Camera

Main and Secondary Lenses

The iPhone 18 Pro features a 48MP main camera, 48MP 4x periscope telephoto and 48MP ultrawide, plus LiDAR. Samsung uses a 200MP main sensor alongside 3x and 5x telephoto cameras and a 50MP ultrawide. Samsung clearly offers greater focal-length flexibility, while Apple’s setup emphasizes consistency and computational photography. For serious zoom photography, the Galaxy is the more versatile tool.

Selfie Camera

Apple equips the iPhone 18 Pro with an 18MP ultrawide selfie camera featuring PDAF, along with an SL 3D sensor for depth and biometrics. It also supports advanced video features including Dolby Vision, ProRes RAW and Apple Log 2. Samsung’s 12MP selfie camera supports PDAF and HDR10+, with 4K video recording. Apple’s front camera system is considerably more ambitious for creators and video-focused users.

Verdict

Samsung wins for photographic versatility, particularly its dual telephoto system and 200MP main camera. Apple is the stronger choice for professional video workflows, selfie flexibility and advanced recording features.

Pricing

The iPhone 18 Pro is priced around $1200 / ₹164,900, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra is priced around $1300 / ₹140,000 based on the supplied pricing. Interestingly, the Samsung costs more in its approximate US pricing but less in the quoted Indian pricing. That makes regional pricing particularly important when comparing these two flagships.

Is the price justified? 

Both phones justify flagship pricing through premium hardware, advanced cameras and long-term software support. The iPhone brings Apple’s ecosystem, A20 Pro performance, professional video tools and multiple storage tiers up to 2TB. Samsung offers a larger display, S Pen, more camera versatility, a 5000mAh battery and 16GB RAM. At the supplied Indian price, Samsung delivers stronger overall hardware value.

Verdict

Samsung offers better value based on the supplied Indian pricing, combining a larger display, S Pen, versatile cameras and bigger battery for less. Apple remains compelling for ecosystem and video-focused buyers.

Disclaimer:
Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, launch timing, and applicable taxes. Always check whether the listed price is for a China unit or a global/international variant when purchasing.

Conclusion

The iPhone 18 Pro stands out with its 2nm A20 Pro chip, ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, Dolby Vision recording, LiDAR, and deep Apple ecosystem integration. The Galaxy S26 Ultra counters with an S Pen, Privacy Display, Samsung DeX, 200MP camera, dual telephoto setup and reverse wireless charging. These features make the phones appeal to distinctly different premium buyers.

Verdict

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the overall winner for its broader feature set, larger display, camera versatility, S Pen, battery capacity and stronger value at the supplied Indian price. iPhone 18 Pro remains the better pick for Apple ecosystem users and serious mobile video creators.

FAQs

1. Which phone has the better camera, iPhone 18 Pro or Galaxy S26 Ultra?
Galaxy S26 Ultra offers greater camera versatility, while iPhone 18 Pro is stronger for professional video recording.

2. Which phone is faster, iPhone 18 Pro or Galaxy S26 Ultra?
Both deliver flagship performance, but the A20 Pro gives the iPhone strong efficiency and optimized performance.

3. Which phone has better battery life?
Galaxy S26 Ultra has the larger battery and faster wired charging, making it better suited to heavy daily use.

4. Which phone offers better value for money?
Galaxy S26 Ultra offers more hardware features for the quoted price, including an S Pen, larger display and versatile cameras.

5. Should you buy the iPhone 18 Pro or Galaxy S26 Ultra?
Choose iPhone 18 Pro for Apple’s ecosystem and video tools; choose Galaxy S26 Ultra for versatility and productivity.

Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and availability may vary by region and retailer. Recommendations in this article are based on editorial opinion, feature-based value, and market positioning at the time of writing. Readers are advised to do their own research before making a purchase.

Read More:

• iPhone 18 Pro vs Xiaomi 18 Pro: Xiaomi Has One Huge Advantage
• OPPO Find X10 vs Xiaomi 18 Pro: Is Xiaomi Worth $200 More?
• iPhone 18 Pro Max vs OPPO Find X10 Pro Max: Is Apple Really Worth $340 More?

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Samsung has not yet shown its 2027 flagship chip, but the Exynos 2700 is now reportedly in mass production. According to tipster Ice Universe, Samsung Electronics is making about 10% more units than it did with the previous generation.

The claim is in line with previous reports that the chip production would begin in the second half of 2026. It is set to debut in the Galaxy S27 series and will use Samsung’s second-generation 2nm process, called SF2P. Compared with the previous generation, it is said to offer 12% higher performance and 25% lower power use.

Exynos 2700: What we know

The Exynos 2700 will reportedly be the first Samsung chip to use FOWLP-SbS, short for fan-out wafer-level side-by-side packaging. Here, the processor and memory sit next to each other under a copper-based heat path block. This lets one piece of metal pull heat away from both the application processor and the DRAM. Samsung reportedly sees this as a more efficient setup than the Exynos 2600, where a heat sink touched the chip directly.

As for the core layout, the CPU will have ten cores with two prime clusters.

• First cluster: one Arm C1-Ultra core at 3.36GHz and four C1-Pro cores at 2.88GHz. This group handles sustained workloads and efficiency.
• Second cluster: one C2-Ultra core at 4.24GHz and four C2-Pro cores at 3.74GHz.

For graphics, Samsung is likely to use the Xclipse 970, built on AMD’s RDNA 5 architecture. It has 16 compute units, and you can expect GPU performance to rise by 30% to 40%. On the memory side, the chip supports LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0 storage, which should raise data transfer speeds.

Samsung has not confirmed any of these details, so treat them as unverified until official. 

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Samsung has been quietly poking around in a new direction for its laptops, and a mysterious machine just showed up in the Geekbench database that has people talking.

The device is listed as the Samsung XE940XSA, and it’s running Android 17, not Windows, not ChromeOS. That’s a big departure from the previously announced Galaxybooks. It raises a question: Is Samsung about to jump into Google’s new Googlebook category or build its own Android-powered Galaxy Book with One UI features?

Under the hood it’s packing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite (the 12-core “Hamoa” chip), paired with an Adreno X1-85 GPU and 16 GB of RAM. In Geekbench 7 it scored 2,513 single-core and 15,214 multi-core, respectable numbers that put it in the same ballpark as a lot of premium thin-and-lights.

Google only officially launched the Googlebook platform in September with machines from Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Those are desktop-style Android devices designed to work closely with phones and get long software support. The Samsung unit’s hardware lines up pretty closely with the Snapdragon-based Googlebooks already out there, which is why a lot of folks are assuming that’s what this is. Then again, Samsung’s been rumored to be working on its own Android Galaxy Books, so this could also be something more independent.

If it does make it to market, it would give Samsung a proper seat at the table in this new class of premium Android notebooks, ones aimed at people who want their laptop to feel like a natural extension of their phone and tablet. Until the company actually confirms anything, though, the XE940XSA is just an intriguing early glimpse at what Samsung’s laptop strategy might look like next.

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(Source: Geekbench)

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Samsung has officially entered the clip-on wireless earbud segment with a new design aimed at users who prefer an open listening experience. The Galaxy Buds On sit around the ear instead of sealing the ear canal, allowing users to remain more aware of their surroundings. Samsung has also added several features aimed at comfort, calls and hands-free use.

Samsung Galaxy Buds On specifications and features

The Galaxy Buds On use an ergonomic clip-on construction designed to distribute pressure across the ear and remain secure during movement. Samsung says it studied different ear shapes and adjusted the placement of the speakers, batteries and flexible band accordingly. Touch controls on the rear of the earbuds allow users to manage music playback and calls without reaching for their phones.

Audio is handled by TwinBoost speakers designed to improve low-frequency output, while automatic volume adjustment adapts playback to the surrounding environment. Samsung has also added an Audio Leakage Reduction system to limit sound escaping from the open-ear design. The earbuds are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform paired with a Class-D amplifier and offer up to 9.5 hours of music playback on a single charge.

For calls, the Galaxy Buds On feature three microphones, a bone-conduction-based Voice Pickup Sensor and machine learning to distinguish the wearer’s voice from background noise. Galaxy AI integration adds Gemini Live access through voice commands, while users can create voice memos with a long press and later search them using Bixby. Head gestures can also be used for actions such as answering or ending calls, dismissing alarms and checking notifications.

Price and availability

The Galaxy Buds On will launch in South Korea on October 27 for KRW 299,000, which is approximately $220. Samsung plans to bring the earbuds to other markets in phases, although it has not yet announced specific launch dates for other countries. The earbuds will initially be offered in Black.

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Samsung has added two new budget smartphones to its India lineup, with the Galaxy M08 and Galaxy F08 listed as coming soon. Both models focus on a large battery, a 50-megapixel rear camera and long-term software support. They also bring IP64 protection and the MediaTek Helio G99+ chipset to the segment.

Samsung Galaxy M08, Galaxy F08 specifications and features

The Galaxy M08 and Galaxy F08 feature a 6.7-inch-class HD+ PLS LCD with a 720 x 1,600-pixel resolution and 16 million colours. The phones measure 167.4 x 77.4 x 8.0mm and weigh 197 grams. Their IP64 rating provides protection against dust and water splashes, while a side-mounted fingerprint sensor handles biometric authentication.

At the core is the MediaTek Helio G99+ octa-core processor with clock speeds of up to 2.2GHz, paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. Samsung also supports microSD cards of up to 2TB, giving users additional space for photos, videos and apps. Both smartphones run Android 17 and are promised six generations of OS upgrades along with six years of security updates.

The rear camera setup combines a 50MP primary sensor with a 2MP secondary camera, while an 8MP sensor handles selfies. The main camera supports autofocus and up to 10x digital zoom, with video recording available at up to Full HD resolution at 30fps. A 6,000mAh battery keeps both phones running, with support for 25W fast charging, although the charger is sold separately.

Samsung has also added features such as Circle to Search, Quick Share, Knox Vault and SmartThings support. Connectivity covers 4G LTE, dual SIM support, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS and USB Type-C, while a 3.5mm headphone jack is retained.

Samsung Galaxy M08, Galaxy F08 price and availability

The Galaxy M08 and Galaxy F08 will be soon available for purchase in India, with both currently listed in a 4GB+64GB configuration. Samsung has not yet revealed their prices, color options, or sales date.

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Samsung has introduced the Galaxy SmartTag 3. The new item tracker updates the hardware to be smaller and lighter, but the main functional change is that it now works with iOS devices alongside Samsung’s own phones.

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 3 Specifications

The SmartTag 3 is 35% smaller in volume and 33% lighter than the SmartTag 2. It features a rounded shape, an aluminum button, and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. Samsung says the battery lasts up to 550 days on standard settings and up to 790 days if you use the device’s power-saving mode.

Previously, Samsung’s trackers only worked within the Galaxy ecosystem. The SmartTag 3 changes this by allowing iOS devices to connect through the SmartThings Find network. This means people in households using both iPhones and Android phones can track the same items, check location history, and use local search functions without needing a specific phone brand.

For locating items, the tracker uses Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding. This standard allows the app to show distance and direction from up to 60 meters away, which is about three times the range of the previous model.

When you are closer to the tag, it switches to ultra-wideband (UWB) for more specific location tracking. If the tag is out of your phone’s Bluetooth range, it uses the Galaxy Find Network. This network relies on other opted-in Samsung devices in the area to securely relay the tag’s location back to you.

Samsung included a few automated features to limit how often you need to check the app. You can set up Place Notifications to get an alert when the tag enters or leaves a specific area, like a home or office. It also has movement detection alerts, Left Behind alerts if your phone disconnects from the tag, and a log of its location history.

The physical button on the tag can be used to control SmartThings smart home devices. If the tag is lost, an NFC chip allows anyone who finds it to tap it with their phone to see your registered contact details.

Pricing and Availability

The SmartTag 3 is priced at $29.99 for one or $99.99 for a four-pack. It is available in black and white. Samsung is also selling a Silicone Case and a Loop Case for attaching the tag to items. It launches in South Korea on October 7th, 2026, and will be available in the US in November.

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After weeks of leaks and rumors, Samsung’s latest flagship tablets are finally here. The company today announced the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra while skipping the base Galaxy Tab S12. Both tablets will go on sale globally on October 7.

Design and display

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra measures just 5.1mm thick, which is Samsung’s thinnest tablet yet. The Wi-Fi model weighs 692g, while the 5G version weighs 695g. It has a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 2960 x 1848 resolution.

The Galaxy Tab S12+ is slightly smaller, with a 12.6-inch display and a 2800 x 1752 resolution. It is 5.3mm thick and weighs 553g for the Wi-Fi model and 555g for the 5G version.

Both tablets have 120Hz refresh rates and can reach up to 1,600 nits of peak brightness. They also come with four speakers supporting spatial audio, along with IP68 dust and water resistance. Samsung also offers S Pen support on both models. However, the new S Pen does not have Bluetooth features.

Inside, both models are powered by the Dimensity 9500, which isn’t MediaTek’s best chip anymore — succeeded by the Dimensity 9600 Pro — but it should suffice for the heaviest of things you throw at it. Samsung has also added a new 3D vapor chamber to help manage heat during demanding workloads. 

On the software side, both tablets run One UI 9 based on Android 17. Samsung is also offering a six-month trial of Google AI Pro with the tablets, which includes access to Gemini.

Here are the other main specifications:

Both models support dual SIM with a physical SIM and eSIM. They also have in-display fingerprint sensors and microSD card support for cards up to 2TB.

The tablets are available in Gray and Silver. Samsung also offers accessories including the Pro Keyboard, Book Cover Keyboard Slim, and an anti-reflective screen protector.

Price and availability

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra starts at $1,399 (€1,569 / £1,399) for the 12GB + 256GB version. Samsung also offers 12GB + 512GB and 16GB + 1TB configurations.

The Galaxy Tab S12+ starts at $1,199 (€1,329 / £1,199) for the 12GB + 256GB model. A 12GB + 512GB version is also available.

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(Via)

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We’ve spent the past couple of days comparing some of 2026’s biggest new flagships, from Honor’s latest phone against the iPhone to other camera-heavy models from the Chinese market. One thing that keeps coming up with these newer phones is the same combination of bigger camera sensors, larger batteries, and AI features that can do more than answer questions.

Samsung is the odd one out here. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is still the company’s current flagship, while the next major Galaxy S-series refresh isn’t expected until 2027.

The timeline makes the Galaxy S26 Ultra an interesting phone to compare with newer Chinese flagships like the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max. Both phones have high-end cameras, big batteries, and plenty of AI, but they have a very different philosophy of what a flagship should feel like. 

For instance, Xiaomi is still experimenting with a second display on the back of the 18 Pro Max, while Samsung is keen to keep the familiar Galaxy experience while adding minor features such as Privacy Display.

The different launch markets make the comparison even more interesting, too. If you’re considering Samsung’s current flagship while newer hardware from Xiaomi is already arriving, here’s how the two phones compare.

Xiaomi puts another screen on the back

As you might have known by now, the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max is the more unusual phone of the two. Its rear panel has a 2.9-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 4,000 nits of brightness. It can show custom AI avatars, run more than 100 app cards, and work with NFC-enabled plush toys that change what appears on the screen.

There’s also a voice assistant built around the rear display that can hold conversations and control compatible smart-home devices. On the front, Xiaomi has reduced the bezels to 0.99mm. Dragon Crystal Glass 3.0 protects the phone, while an IP68 rating provides water and dust resistance.

The 18 Pro Max comes in Black, White, Iced Peach Pink, and Galaxy Blue. Xiaomi also sells a transparent Special Edition, but that version is limited to the 16GB/1TB configuration.

Samsung takes a much more familiar route with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. It looks like a refined version of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, with a flat display, an S Pen built into the frame, and a slightly more rounded pill-shaped camera housing. The titanium frame is gone this time, replaced by Armor Aluminum, which Samsung says handles heat better.

The S26 Ultra is also IP68-rated and comes in Black, White, Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet, Silver Shadow, and Pink Gold. At 214 grams and 7.9mm thick, it is lighter and thinner than Xiaomi’s phone, even though it carries a much smaller battery.

Xiaomi brings the brightness, Samsung adds Privacy Display

Both phones have 6.9-inch displays, but Xiaomi’s panel has the bigger numbers. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max uses a 2624 x 1208 LTPO AMOLED SuperPixel 2.0 display with a real RGB sub-pixel array, a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and up to 4,000 nits of peak brightness.

The RGB setup plays a role in the phone’s privacy feature. Xiaomi can control the direction of light from individual pixels, narrowing the viewing angle with a single tap at the hardware level. You can also set certain apps to trigger the privacy mode automatically, which is useful for things like banking and messaging apps.

Samsung’s 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display reaches 2,600 nits, so it falls short of Xiaomi’s peak brightness figure. It uses Corning’s third-generation Gorilla Armor with an anti-reflective coating, which helps with outdoor visibility.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra also has a Privacy Display mode that narrows the viewing angle. Samsung lets you use it for specific apps or situations, such as entering a PIN. Both phones can keep people nearby from easily seeing what’s on the screen, but they handle the feature differently.

Dual 200MP sensors vs. Samsung’s four-camera setup

Xiaomi has two 200MP sensors at the center of its rear camera system. The main camera uses a 1/1.28-inch Light Hunter 960L sensor with an f/1.67 aperture and a 23mm equivalent focal length. It uses 16-in-1 pixel binning to produce 2.44µm pixels and comes with a Leica Summilux lens designed to reduce internal reflections.

The 200MP periscope telephoto uses a 1/1.56-inch sensor with an f/2.4 aperture. It offers 3.2x optical zoom and up to 12.8x lossless zoom, along with a 75mm portrait mode. Rounding out the setup is a 50MP ultrawide camera with autofocus as close as 5cm.

Samsung has a more conventional route with four rear cameras. The main camera is 200MP with an f/1.4 aperture and OIS, joined by a 50MP ultrawide with an f/1.9 aperture and a 120-degree field of view. There’s also a new 50MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom and a 10MP telephoto with an f/2.4 aperture for shorter-range zoom.

Samsung has also opened up the main and telephoto lenses compared with the S25 Ultra. The wider apertures allow more light to reach the sensors, which should help with low-light photos and HDR scenes.

Two different Snapdragon chips

Both phones use Qualcomm silicon, but the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max gets the newer chip. It runs the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, built on a 2nm process with a 2+6 all-big-core design and clock speeds of up to 5GHz. Xiaomi pairs it with a ring-shaped vapor-cooling system covering 5,513 mm² on the Pro Max.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy. Samsung’s version is built on 3nm and uses two cores reaching 4.74GHz and six cores reaching 3.62GHz. Samsung also redesigned the phone’s vapor chamber for better cooling.

According to Samsung, the S26 Ultra delivers 19% faster CPU performance, 24% faster GPU performance, and 39% better NPU performance than the S25 Ultra.

Xiaomi’s chip has the newer architecture and smaller manufacturing process, while Samsung has its own chip tuning and cooling system. How that translates into sustained performance and battery life will depend on real-world testing.

Xiaomi has a huge capacity advantage

The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max comes with an 8,500mAh silicon-carbon battery, along with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 5,000mAh battery, the same capacity it has used on several recent Ultra models. The charging has improved to 60W wired and 25W wireless, but Xiaomi still has the clear lead in both battery size and charging speed.

Price and availability

The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at $1,299 for 256GB in the US. The 512GB model costs $1,499, while the 1TB version reaches $1,799. It has been available worldwide since March.

The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max starts at 6,999 yuan (about $1,045) in China for the 12GB/256GB model. The 16GB/1TB version costs 9,999 yuan (about $1,492), while the transparent Special Edition adds another 1,000 yuan.

Xiaomi has confirmed that the 18 Pro series will launch globally later this year, which is different from the China-only Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. However, the 18 Pro Max is not yet available outside China, and there is still no indication of a US launch.

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Samsung’s One UI 9 rollout has finally picked up some good pace after a series of unfortunate events. The stable update initially landed on the Galaxy S26 series, but it remained limited to Korea for longer than expected. The update is now available in more regions, and Samsung has also begun rolling out the update to more Galaxy devices – at a better pace.

Quickly after the Galaxy S26 picked up One UI 9 globally, the rollout also went live for the Galaxy S25 series and recent foldable phones. Here’s a list of Galaxy devices that have received the One UI 9 update.

Samsung devices getting the stable One UI 9 update

Galaxy S series

• Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra
• Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge, S25 FE

Galaxy Z series

• Galaxy Z TriFold
• Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7

The list should grow as more Galaxy devices receive the One UI 9 update in the coming days and weeks. We’ll update it regularly to keep it fresh and up-to-date.

If your Galaxy device is on the list, navigate to Settings > Software updates, then tap Download and install to check for the latest update, if you have not yet received an update notification. Keep in mind that the update rolls out in batches and may take a while to reach your device.

We’ll keep tracking the latest developments around One UI and post them in our Samsung section. You can visit the page regularly for the latest details.

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Samsung has quietly raised prices on a couple of its popular mid-range phones in India, and the timing feels a bit awkward with the festive shopping season right around the corner. The Galaxy A36 and Galaxy A56 from last year’s lineup are now costing noticeably more.

The Galaxy A36 has gone up by as much as Rs 3,000. The 8GB + 128GB version now starts at Rs 36,999 (it was Rs 33,999 before). The 8GB + 256GB model is Rs 40,999, and the 12GB + 256GB variant sits at Rs 46,499.

The Galaxy A56 also got a bump. The base 8GB + 128GB model now starts at Rs 44,999 (up from Rs 42,999). The 8GB + 256GB version is Rs 48,999, and the 12GB + 256GB one is Rs 54,499.

That said, there’s a bit of good news. While the prices on Samsung’s official website have already gone up, some of these models can still be found at the older prices on Amazon and Flipkart. If you’re interested, it’s worth checking those listings soon before the stock at the lower prices disappears.

These back-to-back increases are making Samsung phones feel more expensive for Indian buyers. Analysts say the memory supply crunch isn’t going away anytime soon, so we probably shouldn’t expect prices to drop in the near future.

If you’re trying to stick to a budget, the upcoming Flipkart Big Billion Days 2026 sale might also be worth waiting for. Early teasers suggest the Galaxy S25 FE could fall below Rs 50,000 and the regular Galaxy S25 under Rs 60,000 after discounts and bank offers. Those older flagship and Fan Edition models still offer solid premium features and could be smarter buys than the newly pricier A-series phones.

The fact that Samsung raised prices on the A36 and A56 just before the big festive sales window has raised a few eyebrows. The phones themselves are still competitive in the Samsung mid-range space with good displays and long software support. But the higher price tags show how global supply-chain problems are making smartphones less affordable in one of the world’s biggest mobile markets.

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(Sources: 1, 2)

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Something quiet but pretty interesting is happening in the smartphone world. A design approach Apple started using recently might help Android makers shove way bigger batteries into their flagships.

According to well-known Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station, a major Chinese smartphone brand is already testing steel-cased batteries paired with stacked-cell construction. The idea basically takes what Apple has been doing and pushes it further.

Apple first put an aluminum shell around the battery in the iPhone 16 Pro. The rigid metal case gives the battery more structural strength. Apple’s kept refining it, and the iPhone 18 Pro Max (at least the versions with a physical SIM tray) is expected to hit 5,391mAh, about a 12% bump over the last generation.

Chinese companies look ready to go bigger. They’re swapping aluminum for steel and combining it with stacked cells instead of the usual wound “jelly-roll” design. Stacked cells use the internal space more efficiently and can pack in higher energy density. Throw in the silicon-carbon anode tech that’s already pushed a lot of Chinese flagships past 7,000mAh, and suddenly 9,000–10,000mAh starts looking a lot easier to achieve.

Chinese brands already offer solid battery life thanks to dense silicon-carbon chemistry, but cracking five digits in a proper flagship body would set a new bar. Of course, they’d still have to figure out how to fit all the advanced cameras alongside that much battery.

Samsung isn’t sitting still either. Leaks suggest the Galaxy S27 Pro could land around 5,200mAh, while the Ultra might reach about 5,700mAh. That would be the first real capacity bump for Samsung’s Ultra line in years, and it’s expected to use silicon-carbon tech the company is already putting in its foldables.

For now, it looks like metal-encased cells and smarter internal layouts are giving manufacturers new ways to squeeze more capacity out of the same limited space.

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(Source: Digital Chat Station on Weibo)

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