Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Release Date & Rumoured Specs

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus is shaping up to be one of the most interesting smartphones in Samsung’s upcoming flagship lineup. Positioned between the base Galaxy S26 and the feature-packed Galaxy S26 Ultra, the S26 Plus is expected to strike a balance between performance, screen size, and price. Early leaks suggest that Samsung may push the Plus model closer to Ultra territory than ever before, especially when it comes to display size, battery capacity, and performance enhancements.

This approach would not be surprising. The Galaxy S25 Plus saw strong market reception, selling approximately 4.5 million units within six months, marking a 7.5 percent increase over the Galaxy S24 Plus, which sold around 3.85 million units in the same timeframe. In total, the Galaxy S25 series reportedly moved 22.7 million units in its first half year, reinforcing demand for premium devices that do not quite reach Ultra pricing.

In this guide, we break down everything we know so far about the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus, including its expected release timeline, design and display changes, performance upgrades, camera improvements, battery and charging rumours, and estimated pricing in Singapore. All information is based on early leaks, supply chain reports, and patterns from Samsung’s previous flagship launches.

When is the Galaxy S26 Plus expected to launch?

Samsung has followed a remarkably consistent release cycle for its Galaxy S series over the past several years. Based on this pattern, the Galaxy S26 Plus is expected to launch in early 2026, likely alongside the standard Galaxy S26 and the Galaxy S26 Ultra at a Galaxy Unpacked event.

Historically, Samsung unveils its flagship Galaxy S models between late January and mid-February, with global availability beginning shortly after. Singapore is typically among the first wave of markets to receive new Galaxy devices, often within one to two weeks of the global announcement.

If Samsung maintains this cadence, consumers in Singapore can reasonably expect the Galaxy S26 Plus to be available through major telcos and retailers by February 2026. Pre-orders would likely open immediately following the announcement, with bundled promotions and early-bird offers tied to storage upgrades or accessories.

Design & display: what’s new?

One of the most talked-about aspects of the Galaxy S26 Plus is its rumoured display upgrade. Leaks suggest Samsung may significantly increase the screen size of the Plus model, narrowing the gap between it and the Ultra variant.

Larger screen, slimmer bezels

Early reports point to a larger AMOLED display, potentially exceeding the current Plus-model dimensions. Combined with slimmer bezels and a more refined flat-edge design, the phone could deliver a more immersive viewing experience without dramatically increasing overall size.

Samsung is also expected to improve panel efficiency and brightness. A next-generation AMOLED display with higher peak brightness would improve outdoor visibility, while a smoother adaptive refresh rate could enhance battery efficiency during everyday use.

Design closer to Ultra

Visually, the Galaxy S26 Plus may align more closely with the Ultra model than previous Plus devices. This could include cleaner camera housing integration, flatter sides, and a more premium finish. However, Samsung is still expected to reserve certain materials or exclusive design elements for the Ultra to preserve product differentiation.

S26 Plus performance & storage

Performance is another area where the Galaxy S26 Plus is expected to see meaningful gains.

Next-generation chipset

The device is rumoured to run on either the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 or Samsung’s Exynos 2600, depending on region. Singapore models have historically featured Snapdragon chipsets, which bodes well for sustained performance and gaming efficiency.

Both chips are expected to deliver improvements in CPU and GPU performance, along with better thermal management. This would allow the Galaxy S26 Plus to handle demanding tasks such as high-frame-rate gaming, 4K video recording, and on-device AI processing without overheating.

RAM and storage upgrades

Leaks indicate a starting RAM configuration of 12GB, with higher storage tiers available for power users. This would represent a step up from earlier Plus models and further reinforce the device’s positioning as a productivity and multitasking powerhouse.

The increased memory headroom would also support Samsung’s growing suite of AI-driven features, from advanced photo processing to smarter on-device assistants and real-time language tools.

Camera system: Evolution or Revolution?

While the Galaxy S26 Plus is not expected to receive the same camera hardware as the Ultra, meaningful refinements are still on the table.

Improved sensors and processing

Rather than a complete overhaul, Samsung is likely to focus on incremental improvements. These may include enhanced main sensor performance, improved image processing algorithms, and better low-light photography. Night mode performance, in particular, is expected to benefit from more advanced computational photography.

Video stabilisation could also see upgrades, making the S26 Plus a stronger option for creators who prioritise smooth handheld footage.

Ultra exclusivity remains

Despite these improvements, Samsung is expected to keep its most advanced camera features exclusive to the Ultra model. This helps maintain clear separation within the lineup while still offering a compelling camera experience on the Plus.

Battery & charging: Powering the S26 Plus

Battery life has consistently been a deciding factor for Plus-model buyers, and the Galaxy S26 Plus appears poised to deliver further gains.

Larger battery capacity

Leaks suggest a larger battery than the Galaxy S25 Plus, enabled in part by internal design optimisations. Combined with a more efficient chipset and display, this could translate to noticeably longer screen-on time for everyday use.

Faster charging and wireless support

Samsung is also rumoured to be exploring faster wired charging speeds, potentially closing the gap with competitors. Support for the latest wireless charging standards is expected, ensuring compatibility with newer accessories and charging pads.

Pricing & availability: what to expect in Singapore

Pricing for the Galaxy S26 Plus is expected to reflect its upgraded positioning within the lineup.

In Singapore, the device will likely sit between the base Galaxy S26 and the Galaxy S26 Ultra, offering premium features without the Ultra’s top-tier price. Final pricing will depend on storage configurations and launch promotions, but consumers should anticipate a premium flagship price point.

Availability is expected across major telcos, electronics retailers, and online platforms, with options to pair the device with SIM-only or 5G mobile plans.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus vs Galaxy S26 Plus

Key upgrades over Galaxy S25 Plus

• Increased RAM: More memory for multitasking and AI features

• Larger battery: Longer usage between charges

• Faster charging: Reduced downtime

• Sleeker design: Slimmer bezels and refined build

• Updated software: New Android version with enhanced One UI

• Camera system: Better low-light and video performance

Circles.Life plans and deals to boost your S26 Plus experience

Pairing the Galaxy S26 Plus with the right mobile plan can significantly enhance your experience, especially with 5G connectivity and generous data allowances.

Plans last updated: 26 January 2026

For more options, explore our guides on the best SIM-only mobile plans in Singapore, the benefits of data-only plans, and detailed 5G SIM-only plan comparisons.

Did you know?

The Galaxy S25 Plus contributed significantly to Samsung’s overall flagship sales growth, helping the S25 series reach 22.7 million units sold in just six months. This performance has reportedly influenced Samsung’s decision to further enhance the Plus model for the S26 generation, narrowing the gap between Plus and Ultra devices.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus is shaping up to be a compelling option for users who want a premium flagship experience without stepping all the way up to Ultra pricing. With a larger display, stronger performance, improved battery life, and refined design, the S26 Plus could be Samsung’s most balanced flagship yet.

As always, final specifications and pricing will only be confirmed at launch. However, based on current leaks and historical trends, the Galaxy S26 Plus is well positioned to appeal to power users, content consumers, and professionals alike.