As speculated last week, Samsung’s next flagship smartphone lineup, the Galaxy S26 series, may not hit shelves as early as expected, with reports suggesting a delay could push the launch from January into late February or even March 2026.

According to reports from South Korea, Samsung is planning to unveil the new series on February 25, marking a return to its later Unpacked schedule for the first time since the Galaxy S9 launch in 2018.

After experimenting with new model names and formats, Samsung is said to be reverting to a three-device lineup: the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus and S26 Ultra.

The previously rumoured ‘Edge’ and ‘Pro’ variants have reportedly been dropped following lacklustre market feedback.

The company’s shift in strategy may have contributed to the delayed launch.

The focus this time appears to be on stability, refinement and a broader appeal to mainstream users rather than flashy innovation.

In a notable move, Samsung will power the entire Galaxy S26 lineup, including the Ultra, with its own Exynos 2600 processor in most markets.

Some regions, however, are still expected to receive the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

The decision signals a renewed push to showcase Samsung’s in-house silicon after years of mixed reception.

Executives have teased “next-generation, user-centric AI” and “second-generation custom AP performance,” hinting that Galaxy AI will be even more deeply integrated across camera, performance and productivity features.

Traditionally, Samsung unveils its Galaxy S flagship lineup at the start of the year, but sources in Korea indicate production of the S26 series has been disrupted.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is reportedly scheduled for mass production in December, while the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are set to follow in January, later than initially planned.

The Ultra is shaping up to be the highlight of the series, with leaks suggesting a game-changing OLED display with curvier corners and a slightly slimmer 7.9mm body, though the protruding camera block may still add some bulk.

Camera specs are expected to remain largely unchanged from the S25 Ultra, with a 200MP main lens and multiple telephoto options – a decision that may disappoint those looking for major upgrades.

Where Samsung is innovating, however, is in privacy and AI.

The Ultra is rumored to introduce a Privacy Display, using Flex Magic Pixel technology to limit screen visibility from side angles. Users could customise activation for crowded spaces or sensitive apps, and a ‘Maximum Privacy’ mode will further reduce viewing angles.

While Samsung hasn’t confirmed the date, a late-February launch aligns with mounting leaks.

The delayed launch could give rivals like Apple, Xiaomi and OnePlus a window to strengthen early-year offerings.