Despite the hype around AI and privacy features, several major tech outlets and user communities have raised critical points about the Galaxy S26 smartphones from Samsung.
Incremental Upgrades, Not Big Innovations
Reviewers argue that the Samsung Galaxy S26 series feels like a minor refinement over its predecessors rather than a breakthrough upgrade. Hardware changes are seen as modest, with critics noting that the phones retain largely similar specs to the S25 and S24 models, leading to the perception of “evolution over revolution.” This has fueled debate on whether the S26 is worth an upgrade for most smartphone users.
Price Increases Without Corresponding Value
Reports from major news outlets highlighted that the S26 and S26+ models carry a price increase in key markets, which has disappointed some reviewers who feel the extra cost isn’t justified given the limited hardware improvements, AP News reports.
Samsung Electronics Raises Galaxy S26 and S26+ Prices by Up to 13 Percent, Ultra Stays at $1,299
Video of Samsung’s Galaxy S26 lineup, arriving in stores on March 11, will come with price increases for its base and mid-tier models. The standard Galaxy S26 will retail at $899, while the Galaxy S26+ will be priced at $1,099. Both models are $100 higher than their comparable predecessors from the past two years, reflecting a price hike of roughly 10 percent to 13 percent.
In contrast, the flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra will maintain last year’s pricing at $1,299. The pricing strategy signals Samsung’s move to increase revenue on mainstream models while keeping the premium Ultra variant steady to remain competitive in the high-end smartphone segment.
Display and Comfort Issues
Experts have pointed out that the series does not address ongoing concerns about PWM dimming, potentially making the display uncomfortable for users sensitive to flicker. There’s no new flicker-reduction option, keeping the same low PWM rates as before and lagging behind competitors offering more eye-friendly panels.
Camera and Hardware Conservatism
Leaks and early feedback suggested the continued reuse of older telephoto sensors and no major camera sensor overhaul, disappointing buyers hoping for standout imaging upgrades.
Mixed Community Reactions
Community forums echo broader criticism, with users expressing frustration that the S26 models offer little new besides AI software and the Privacy Display. Complaints include price hikes, recycled hardware, unchanged battery capacity, design tweaks that aren’t universally loved, and a lack of compelling features to justify upgrades from previous generations.
AI Features Viewed as Gimmicks by Some
While Samsung emphasizes AI, some users and commenters dismiss these additions as overhyped, with hardware improvements viewed as secondary.
In summary, critics across top media and online communities frame the Samsung Galaxy S26 series as polished but under-whelming, emphasizing that high prices and minimal hardware leaps may temper enthusiasm among buyers.
Omdia report published in January said Samsung maintained healthy Galaxy S and Z shipments in 2025. Can Samsung retain its existing global smartphone market share of 19 percent in 2026?
BABURAJAN KIZHAKEDATH
