Samsung Galaxy S26: Delays, Qi2 magnets, and goodbye Snapdragon?

Early rumors for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series suggest potential delays, the integration of Qi2 magnetic charging, and a possible shift to Exynos processors for non-Ultra models in some regions, while camera and design changes appear minimal.

• S26 series likely to retain S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra naming scheme.

• Qi2 magnetic charging is a key new feature, potentially branded as 'Galaxy Snap'.

• Camera and design updates are expected to be minimal, with a possible Exynos processor split and launch delays until March.

The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 series is generating early rumors, indicating a return to the familiar S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra naming scheme. A significant anticipated feature is the inclusion of Qi2 magnetic charging, similar to iPhone's MagSafe, while camera improvements seem limited and design updates are expected to be minor. Additionally, a notable change could see Exynos chips powering the S26 and S26 Plus in certain markets, and the entire launch may face delays.

Naming Scheme & Lineup

• 00:01:30 Samsung appears to have settled on its traditional naming scheme for the S26 lineup: the S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra, abandoning earlier considerations for 'Edge' or 'Pro' models. Initial confusion about a streamlined two-phone lineup has been superseded by a decision to retain the Plus model, ensuring the familiar three-tier structure remains consistent with previous generations.

Qi2 Magnetic Charging

• 00:01:50 The S26 lineup is rumored to include built-in Qi2 magnets for wireless charging, a feature already present in Pixel and iPhone devices. This expectation stems from a CAD image of dummy units showing a cutout for magnets, positioned similarly to other implementations. While charging speeds might vary, with only the Ultra potentially supporting faster 25W Qi 2.2 charging, this integration aims to enhance the wireless charging experience, possibly branded as 'Galaxy Snap.'

Camera & Design Updates

• 00:03:11 Camera changes for the S26 series are anticipated to be largely cosmetic, focusing on a rounded camera housing for the base S26 and S26 Ultra, mirroring designs seen in the S25 Edge and Z Fold 7. Major sensor upgrades are not expected, with the S26 and S26 Plus likely retaining existing cameras, and the Ultra's 200-megapixel main sensor possibly getting only minor aperture improvements, potentially using a Sony 1/1.2-inch sensor. Design-wise, the S26 might feature a slightly larger 6.3-inch display, and the Ultra could be marginally thinner, but overall aesthetics are expected to largely resemble the S25 series.

Processor & Battery

• 00:05:51 Samsung may implement a regional split for processors in the S26 and S26 Plus models, potentially using its Exynos 2600 chips in some markets while retaining Snapdragon for US models and the S26 Ultra. Battery capacities are expected to remain similar, with the Ultra keeping 5000 mAh and the S26 Plus maintaining its S25 Plus capacity, though the base S26 might see a slight increase to 4300 mAh from 4000 mAh. There is also a rumor of a potential jump to 16GB RAM across the board.