Samsung Galaxy S26 FE Launches With Galaxy AI Features for $699, But $50 Price Hike Raises Questions

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE Is Here With Lots More Galaxy AI for $50 More

Looking for flagship features on a budget? The Galaxy S26 FE is Samsung's newest and cheapest smartphone, and it sports a lot of top-end tech for less than the Galaxy S26. However, if you own last year's Galaxy S25 FE, an upgrade is probably unnecessary. Most of what's on offer here is similar to the last-gen phone, including a 4,900mAh battery with 45W wired and 15W wireless charging, and a 6.7-inch display with peak brightness of 1,900 nits and a refresh rate up to 120Hz. The rear cameras remain the same: a 50MP f/1.8 main shooter, an 8MP f/2.4 telephoto capable of 3x optical zoom and 30x Super Zoom, and a 12MP f/2.2 ultrawide. The selfie camera is slightly different, with the same 12MP f/2.2 spec paired with a wider 85-degree field of view to help you fit more people into your shots. New camera software features include Super Steady Video, which uses a virtual lock to keep footage level even when you turn the phone around up to 360 degrees. Samsung also promises improved video quality at night, calling it brighter and clearer with less noise. The Samsung My FanCam feature, first introduced on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, is now available, allowing you to capture a wide shot of a scene and focus on one subject in the video during editing. The Galaxy S26 FE is powered by an Exynos 2500, which should mean improved performance. That chipset was used in last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7, and PCMag's review found everyday performance to be fine, though you shouldn't expect flagship-level power. You're limited to 8GB of RAM, with storage choices of 128GB or 256GB. Some other markets get a 512GB model, but Samsung is skipping this in the US. The phone comes with Android 17 software by default, in the form of One UI 9, and you get the now-normal seven years of software updates and security upgrades. Many previously unveiled Galaxy AI features are on the Galaxy S26 FE, including improved Document Scanner tools, Photo Assist to add AI edits to your photos using natural language prompts, and an improved Audio Eraser tool to isolate background noise in third-party apps such as Instagram, Netflix, and YouTube. Samsung's Now updates are also improving, including the option to add custom cards in Now Brief. It lets you choose a category, provide a prompt for the information you want to see, and specify when you want it to arrive. For example, you can tell Now Brief to always provide a weather forecast before you leave the office on your journey home. Other Improvements to Now Nudge also mean you'll see natural suggestions for actions to take in apps, such as Samsung Calendar, when someone suggests an event in an email, or a link to save a location to Google Maps if you discuss a restaurant in a text message. Your color options are Blueberry, Graphite, or Pistachio. It starts at $699.99 for 128GB, and jumps to $799.99 for the 256GB version. That's a $50 price increase over the last-gen phone, likely due to the ongoing RAM crunch, which has hit other Samsung phones as well. The SE 26 will be available on Sept. 3 from Samsung, major carriers, Amazon, and Best Buy.

I Spent 90 Minutes With the Galaxy S26 FE, and Samsung May Have Undercut Its Own Flagship

At $699.99, the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is $50 more than its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 FE, but still $200 shy of the $899.99 Galaxy S26. Thanks to the ongoing component crisis, almost every phone I've tested this year has introduced a similar price hike. Samsung seems determined to help you forget about the price hike by stuffing the FE with a bevy of AI features, many of which have already debuted on Samsung phones earlier this year. It's the trickle-down theory, but for phones. Here are my first impressions of Samsung's shiny FE model. 'Reflecting' on the Fresh Finish When I describe the Galaxy S26 FE as "shiny," I'm not kidding. Imagine my surprise when I picked up Samsung's midranger and the first thing I saw wasn't the phone -- it was my own face. Last year's Galaxy S25 FE had a matte body, similar to the current finish on the Galaxy S26 series. The last time the FE lineup went glossy was for the S24 model. The S26 FE's reflective design makes it more susceptible to fingerprints. The darker colorways, Blueberry and Graphite, build up more visible smudges than the Pistachio model, so you'll want to keep a microfiber cloth handy. I suspect ditching the matte backside may be a cost-cutting measure; smooth glass is cheaper and faster to produce. Keep in mind, none of this matters much if you plan to put the FE in a case. You may actually enjoy the reflective surfaces. The FE has the same IP68 protection as its predecessor, which means you get total dust resistance and can submerge the phone in fresh water up to about 5 feet for up to 30 minutes. Feel free to take it with you to the beach. Unnoticeable Weight Gain Samsung admits the S26 FE is slightly heavier than the previous model, but when I picked it up, I still felt it was quite lightweight. I was expecting some heft, but the intangible difference makes sense when you consider the new model now weighs 6.81 ounces -- just a fraction more than the 6.70-ounce S25 FE. Not a big deal. Aside from weight, Samsung says the S26 FE's dimensions are basically the same as its predecessor's. Familiar AI Features Samsung brought its Document Scan tool from the Galaxy S26, Z Fold 8, and Z Flip 8 lineup to the FE. The company says Document Scan can reduce dog-ear folds, wrinkles, and fingerprints when capturing scans. Take this "Order from the Source" flyer (below). It's pretty wrinkly, no? Document Scan put its AI tricks to use, and voila, the scan is mostly smooth, save for one crinkle in the middle. I also tested the natural-language-supported Photo Assist, which lets you manipulate pictures using text prompts. After taking a picture with my fingers in the way, I prompted the Photos app to remove my digits. I was impressed with the results. Not only did it remove my fingers, but the AI did a good job at predicting what would have been under my fingers, including ripples and reflections from the surrounding buildings. The My FanCam feature uses AI to detect and track subjects, and it is just as impressive on the FE as on the Z Fold 8. You can record a video of several people, and My FanCam will detect them and allow you to select a subject for the AI to follow and keep centered in the frame. Audio Eraser, which reduces unwanted video noise in real time, works well, too. I launched a video of a YouTuber walking down a busy New York City street. While it didn't completely silence a blaring ambulance siren, it significantly reduced its volume. Better yet, the background traffic, wind, and distant chatter went quiet. It puts the priority audio front and center, in real time, and I'm a big fan. An Appreciable Step Up for the Camera There are no stop-the-presses changes to the camera setup. It still has the S25 FE's triple-lens system on the rear: a 50MP main, a 12MP ultrawide, and an 8MP telephoto with 3x optical and 30x Space Zoom. What's new, according to Samsung, is a "clarity enhancement" designed to sharpen shots taken in the 2x range. I took some shots after tapping the 2x bubble in the Camera app, but it's difficult to tell whether there are any improvements without inspecting the photos of both the S25 FE and S26 FE up close on a monitor. I also captured a photo of a yellow water taxi via the 30x Super Zoom tool, and I was taken aback by how structured the shot was. Even though I was roughly a mile away from the boat, I could read out the words, "New York Water Taxi," though it took a bit of squinting. New to the S26 FE is Samsung's Super Steady with Horizontal Lock feature. The kicker is that you can do a full 360-degree spin of the phone, and it will keep the video level throughout. I tested it, and as expected, the footage stayed upright and steady no matter how much I twisted and turned the phone. Samsung claims that it improved nightography on the FE with significantly reduced low-light noise, but it was too bright to test this claim in the event space. Same Ole Display The S26 FE has the same 6.7-inch, Dynamic AMOLED 2X display as its predecessor, with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,900 nits. I set the screen to its maximum brightness and held it near a window. Although the display was visible, I could tell that super sun-drenched days might force me to seek out shade. The S26 series phones reach 2,600 nits and are easier to work with under bright light. On the plus side, the FE's screen remains a visual treat. Firing up a few YouTube videos, the display looks glorious, from punchy colors to crisp-and-sharp textures. Exynos Upgrade The S26 FE received an upgrade from the Exynos 2400 to the Exynos 2500. I know, I know. Some people hear Exynos and throw up their hands as if I just told them it's powered by a potato. The Exynos 2500 is also found in the 2025 Galaxy Z Flip 7. In testing, we noticed the Z Flip 7 got "crazy hot while seemingly doing nothing at all," like taking a few photos or location tagging. I didn't notice any thermal issues during my 90-minute session, but I'll need more time with it to know for certain. Battery Banality A Samsung rep claimed that the 4,900mAh battery inside the FE, which shares the same capacity as its predecessor, is "very long lasting." For context, the last-gen model delivered 17 hours of battery life. We'll be sure to test the battery when we get the Samsung midranger in for review. Matching the Galaxy S25 FE, the new FE supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. Price and Availability The S26 FE is $699.99 for the 128GB model, which I don't recommend. Based on my experience, you might get that dreaded "storage full" message in about a year. The 256GB model runs $799.99. Both configurations come with 8GB of RAM. As mentioned, the Galaxy S26 FE is $200 cheaper than the entry-level Galaxy S26. So the question is, will the new FE make consumers think twice about paying more? The Galaxy S26 gives you more RAM (12GB versus 8GB), a better chipset (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 versus Exynos 2500), and a brighter display (2,600 nits versus 1,900 nits). But the FE still packs a slew of AI features once reserved for Samsung's premium phones, has a larger display (6.7 versus 6.3 inches), and a larger battery (4,900mAh versus 4,300mAh). Did Samsung just undercut its own flagship? We'll just have to wait and see. The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE will be available on Sept. 3 through select carriers, with a broader nationwide retail rollout on Sept. 4.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE: Delivering the Latest Flagship Experience, Focused on What Matters Most - Samsung Global Newsroom

First in the Galaxy S26 lineup to launch with One UI 9, Galaxy S26 FE pairs advanced camera capabilities with the latest Galaxy AI Samsung Electronics today announced Galaxy S26 FE, the newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family and the first in the lineup to launch with One UI 9 -- bringing the latest premium Galaxy experiences to more users from day one. With enhanced camera capabilities and more context-aware Galaxy AI, it elevates how users capture, create, and connect every day. Built around what users value most in a thin and light design, Galaxy S26 FE carries the iconic Galaxy S experience forward. "Galaxy S26 FE is purposefully designed to deliver the signature strengths of the Galaxy S series, ensuring that every feature makes a meaningful difference in users' daily lives," said Jay Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Office, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. "Packed with beloved Galaxy camera and AI experiences, backed by the latest One UI 9, Galaxy S26 FE comes to life as an ideal choice for those who know exactly what matters most to them." Sharper Capture, Effortless Editing Galaxy S26 FE delivers a more capable camera experience from capture to edit, with an enhanced triple rear camera and advanced image processing that help users capture and refine the moments that matter -- whether shooting still scenes or fast-moving action. * My FanCam, first introduced on the latest Galaxy foldables, is now available on Galaxy S26 FE. It automatically tracks a selected person and keeps them centered, intelligently reframing video as the scene moves, so users can turn dynamic moments into social-ready content with less manual editing. * For video, Super Steady with Horizontal Lock -- a favorite among Galaxy S26 users -- helps capture smoother, more level footage while filming fast-moving activities, travel moments, and everyday scenes on the go. * Galaxy S26 FE supports 3x optical zoom, giving users more confidence when shooting from a distance. For selfies, an enhanced 12 MP front camera captures more in every frame, making group shots easier to take. * Nightography, a signature of the Galaxy S series, helps users capture bright and clear shots in low light, with detail preserved even in the most challenging scenes. * Even after the moment has passed, Photo Assist makes it easier to refine images using natural language prompts -- turning day into night, adding new elements or restoring missing parts. Plus, edits can be reviewed step by step and revised or undone along the way. * With Gemini Omni, users can easily create and edit videos clips based on photo and videos from their Gallery, turning them into polished, ready-to-share videos. AI Experiences, Always One Step Ahead Powered by the latest One UI 9, Galaxy S26 FE brings a range of intuitive, context-aware Galaxy AI experiences that make daily life easier by adapting to users' routines to keep them informed and organized. It also handles everyday tasks faster and more seamlessly on user's behalf. * Updated Now Brief, first introduced on the Galaxy S25 series, is even more personalized through customizable briefing cards like weather and wellness insights. Users can now create their own cards with a simple prompt, making Now Brief more relevant throughout the day. * Now Nudge is expanded to select third-party apps and notifications, surfacing timely, relevant suggestions across more of the day -- helping users turn insights into action and manage everyday routines with less friction. * Circle to Search with Google now allows users to search for multiple items in an image at once, making it easier to identify products, places, objects and more in a single step. Built to Keep Up Throughout the Day Galaxy S26 FE brings meaningful upgrades to the everyday essentials users rely on most -- including a long-lasting battery, and a bright display built for work, entertainment, and creativity from morning to night. * A long-lasting 4,900 mAh battery keeps users going while maintaining the slim and refined design of the Galaxy S26 lineup. Users can reach up to 69% charge in around 30 minutes with the 45 W adapter, powering up quickly to stay connected for longer. * A 6.7-inch AMOLED display with up to 120 Hz refresh rate provides smooth, immersive visuals with brightness, resolution, and clarity for streaming, gaming, browsing, and creative work. Users choosing Galaxy S26 FE as their next device will feel the power of the Galaxy experience from day one. An improved Smart Switch helps users get set up more easily, making the move to Galaxy feel like a warm welcome. Meanwhile, long-term software updates and Samsung Care+ provide added confidence over time. * Upgraded Smart Switch makes moving to Galaxy easier than ever. Whether switching from an Android or iOS device, users can scan a QR code to wirelessly transfer data -- from passwords and passkeys to call history, accessibility settings, and eSIM data -- with no extra apps and less setup time. * Galaxy S26 FE is built to last, with up to seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, allowing users to enjoy the latest features with confidence for years to come. * For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ offers comprehensive coverage optimized to users' needs, including tailored benefits that protect the value of the device. With One UI 9, the new Warranty and care settings hub also makes it easy to enroll in, access, and manage Samsung Care+, along with other device care support. * A 6-month free trial of Google AI Pro will bring expanded AI capabilities and 5 TB of cloud storage valued at USD 19.99 per month. Together, these enhancements deliver the Galaxy experiences users rely on every day in one thoughtfully crafted device. Availability Galaxy S26 FE will be available starting Sept. 4 in select markets in three colors: Blueberry, Graphite, and Pistachio. For more information on Galaxy S26 FE, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press, or Samsung.com.

Galaxy S26 FE Seems Very Solid at Just $699

Samsung made Galaxy S26 FE official this morning, with general availability beginning September 4. For multiple years now, Samsung has been releasing these FE devices as a less expensive entrance into its Galaxy S line, and thanks to some solid releases, they have quite the following. For 2026, Samsung highlights the camera experience and the AI offerings for Galaxy S26 FE. We have three rear shooters on this phone -- 50MP wide angle lens, 12MP ultra-wide, and 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom. Other notable specs include Exynos 2500 chipset with 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, 6.7-inch display with 1,900 nit peak brightness, 4,900mAh battery, IP68 rating, and Android 17 (One UI 9). Below is the full spec sheet for the device. Galaxy S26 FE Specs Software highlights include FanCam for the camera system, which allows users to select a user in frame, then the camera intelligently keeps the subject centered and framed correctly. On top of that, Samsung has added in Super Steady with Horizontal Lock, improved Nightography, and Photo Assist. Found on the Galaxy S26 and S25 series, Galaxy S26 FE is also getting access to the AI-powered Now Nudge and Now Brief. These are productivity features, with Now Nudge designed to help you automate certain tasks on your phone like adding items to your calendar or finding files when contextually needed. Galaxy S26 FE is available from select carriers on September 3 for $699, with nationwide availability beginning September 4. It comes with either Blueberry, Pistachio, or Graphite. Samsung is also tossing in six months of Google AI Pro to buyers.

Based on my short time with the Galaxy S26 FE, Samsung should probably have taken the year off

Samsung's latest mid-range hero has arrived, right on schedule, to bridge the gap between this and next year's flagships. The S26 FE sticks closely to the established 'Fan Edition' concept - so much so, in fact, that I'm left wondering why any true Samsung phone fans would bother. The Galaxy S25 FE has been given the mildest of refreshes here, with a new chipset promising marginally better battery life, the Galaxy AI features that debuted on the firm's new foldables earlier in the year, and a few new colour choices. Oh, and a £50/€50 price hike. While no-one in the tech world has been immune from AI-inflicted component cost increases, that price stings a little when the outgoing phone is still readily available for cheaper - and even the full-fat S26 can be had for less cash if you shop around. After a brief hands-on with the S26 FE, hre's why I think only true die-hards with ageing Samsung mid-rangers need apply. Haven't I seen you before? Revised rear camera bump aside, there's little here that marks the S26 FE out from its predecessor - but importantly that means it still does a convincing impression of the pricier Galaxy S26+. This doesn't look or feel like a mid-range handset, with flat glass at the front and rear, and a flat frame built from Samsung's Armor Aluminium. It's also IP68 resistant. The Pistachio version seen in my photos is arguably the pick of this year's bunch - it's a light hue that's very easy on the eye. Blueberry is a close second, while Graphite is the safer option. The 6.7in screen is a repeat of last year, but that's not a major issue - the old phone was very easy on the eye, after all. The FHD+ resolution looked sharp enough for a mid-ranger to my eyes, while the 120Hz refresh rate delivered smooth scrolling. Bezels are suitably slim and brightness still peaks at 1900 nits, which should be just enough for decent outdoor visibility. Samsung's punchy colours are of course present and correct. AI all the way Samsung spent the most time talking about how the S26 FE was the first Galaxy S handset to get the latest Galaxy AI features. It seems like virtually everything seen on the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Flip8 has been ported over, including generative image editing and real-time voice transcription. The Now Brief page has gained custom cards, which you can tailor to surface useful info in just a couple of taps. It's nice to have, though I wonder how many of these features will just end up ported back to the older S25 FE in the future. You're getting Android 17 out of the box, with seven years of new OS generations and security updates promised. Samsung has also brought along the new Horizon Lock video recording mode for smoother handheld footage using the three rear cameras, along with the My FanCam mode. This uses subject detection to smartly pan and zoom, letting you focus more on the moment than what's centred in the phone's viewfinder. Camera hardware is virtually unchanged, with just the 12MP selfie cam getting a wider 85-degree field of view lens. There's a familiar 50MP main snapper, 12MP ultrawide and 8MP telephoto at the rear, with the latter good for 3x optical zoom. Samsung reckons algorithm updates have brought sharper 2x zoom and 'better processed' digital zooms up to 30x, though I'll have to wait for a full review to verify. Another year, another Exynos There have been a few changes under skin, but Samsung's reps didn't even mention the new Exynos 2500 chipset during my briefing presentation. It promises to be a little quicker and a little more efficient than the outgoing phone's Exynos 2400, although how much that'll translate to real-world gains remains to be seen. 8GB of RAM is the standard, whether you go for 128GB, 256GB or 512GB of on-board storage. With all the demo units running pre-release software I wasn't allowed to run my usual bunch of benchmarks to judge performance. Android felt smooth enough, with apps opening fairly quickly. The chip was a decent enough performer in the Galaxy Z Flip 7, so I'm expecting just the right amount of mid-range oomph here. Samsung reckons it has eked an extra hour of video playback out of the 4900mAh battery, which is unchanged from last year. To me that sounds like it'll be another all-day phone, but not one that'll last two days of regular use - you'll still need to head for big battery rivals from Chinese brands for that. 45W wired charging is competitive, at least, and 15W wireless charging makes a return too. Even more marginal gains than usual Samsung has smartly kept to the same launch schedule as last year, so there's enough clean air between the Galaxy S26 and its successor (which will inevitably arrive in Jaunary 2027) to keep the FE relevant. However, the lack of meaningful upgrades over a predecessor that can be bought for considerably less cash could be a major stumbling block. The Galaxy S26 FE is up for pre-order right now, with prices starting at £699. What are the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE's technical specifications?

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE Debut: Full Flagship AI Without the Flagship Price

The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE is the latest addition to Samsung's flagship lineup, designed to provide a premium smartphone experience while focusing on the features that truly matter to users. By combining advanced camera technology, AI-powered software and a durable design, the Galaxy S26 FE caters to the needs of modern users who demand reliability, performance and innovation. With long-term software support and a user-centric approach, this device is built to last and deliver consistent results. Transforming Smartphone Photography The Galaxy S26 FE redefines mobile photography with its triple rear camera system and innovative features that adapt to your needs. Whether you're capturing everyday moments or creating professional-grade content, this device ensures every shot is optimized for clarity and detail. Key features include: * My FanCam: AI-powered subject tracking and reframing for perfectly composed shots, making sure your photos always look professional. * Super Steady with Horizontal Lock: Smooth, blur-free video recording, even during motion, making it ideal for action shots or on-the-go filming. * Nightography: Enhanced low-light photography for sharper, more detailed images in dim settings, perfect for nighttime adventures. * Photo Assist: Natural language editing commands for quick and intuitive photo adjustments, simplifying the editing process. * Gemini Omni: Automatic video creation from your gallery content, allowing you to share polished videos effortlessly. With a 3x optical zoom and an upgraded 12 MP front camera, the Galaxy S26 FE is equipped to handle both casual snapshots and professional photography needs. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a casual user, this device ensures your memories are captured in stunning detail. AI-Powered Software for Smarter Usage The Galaxy S26 FE runs on Samsung's One UI 9, introducing a suite of AI-driven tools designed to simplify everyday tasks and enhance productivity. These features adapt to your habits, creating a seamless and intuitive user experience: * Galaxy AI: Context-aware suggestions and automation for repetitive tasks, helping you save time and effort. * Now Brief: Customizable briefing cards that provide relevant updates at a glance, keeping you informed without distractions. * Now Nudge: Actionable suggestions tailored to your activity, even within third-party apps, making sure you never miss an opportunity to stay productive. * Circle to Search: Multi-item image search powered by seamless Google integration, making it easier to find what you need in your photos or online. These tools work together to create a personalized and efficient interface, making the Galaxy S26 FE a smarter companion for your daily life. Whether you're managing work tasks or personal activities, the device adapts to your needs, making sure a smooth and productive experience. Immersive Display and Long-Lasting Battery The Galaxy S26 FE features a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display that delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals. With a 120 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 1,900 nits, the screen ensures smooth scrolling and excellent visibility, even in bright sunlight. Whether you're streaming your favorite shows, gaming, or browsing the web, the display offers an immersive and enjoyable experience. Battery performance is equally impressive. The 4,900 mAh battery provides all-day power, making sure you stay connected and productive without frequent recharging. Additionally, the 45 W fast charging capability allows you to reach 69% capacity in just 30 minutes, minimizing downtime. This combination of endurance and efficiency ensures the device keeps up with your busy schedule, no matter how demanding your day may be. Effortless Setup and Long-Term Support Switching to the Galaxy S26 FE is seamless, thanks to the enhanced Smart Switch feature. Whether you're transitioning from an Android or iOS device, the process is quick and hassle-free, allowing you to start using your new phone with minimal effort. Once you're set up, Samsung guarantees seven years of OS upgrades and security updates, making sure your device remains secure and up-to-date over time. For added peace of mind, Samsung Care+ provides comprehensive protection against accidental damage and technical issues. This service safeguards your investment, giving you the confidence to use your device without worry. Durability and Connectivity for Everyday Life The Galaxy S26 FE is built to withstand the demands of daily use. With an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, the device can handle spills, splashes and other unexpected challenges without compromising performance. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for any lifestyle. Connectivity options are equally impressive, offering the latest in wireless technology: * 5G: Ultra-fast mobile internet for seamless streaming, browsing and downloading. * Wi-Fi 6E: Improved wireless performance for faster and more stable connections. * Bluetooth 5.4: Reliable device pairing and data transfer for a hassle-free experience. Available in three stylish colors, Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio, the Galaxy S26 FE combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its sleek design and vibrant color options make it a versatile choice for users seeking both performance and style. Availability and Key Takeaways The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE launches on September 4 in select markets, offering a well-rounded package of advanced features and user-focused enhancements. From its innovative camera system to its durable design and long-term software support, the Galaxy S26 FE is tailored to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Whether you're upgrading your current device or exploring flagship options, this smartphone delivers a reliable, versatile experience that prioritizes what matters most. Source: Samsung Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

Samsung Galaxy S26 FE with 6.7'' FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, Exynos 2500, IP68 ratings announced

Samsung has officially announced the Galaxy S26 FE, expanding its Galaxy S26 series with a device designed to deliver flagship-tier software and hardware features at an accessible entry point. The Galaxy S26 FE is the first device in the lineup to ship with One UI 9 out of the box, offering upgraded camera processing, enhanced context-aware Galaxy AI tools, and long-term software support. Camera and Video Upgrades The Galaxy S26 FE features an upgraded triple rear camera system paired with updated computational photography tools. For telephoto capture, the device includes a dedicated 3x optical zoom lens, while the front camera has been upgraded to a 12 MP sensor designed for broader framing in group selfies. Low-light performance is supported by Samsung's Nightography processing to retain detail across challenging lighting conditions. For video, the device integrates: * My FanCam: An automated subject-tracking tool that centers a selected individual and adjusts framing dynamically during recording. * Super Steady with Horizontal Lock: Software stabilization that maintains a level horizon during fast-moving activities. Editing features include natural language prompt-based edits via Photo Assist, enabling users to alter lighting or modify objects step-by-step, alongside Gemini Omni integration for automated gallery video compilation. Galaxy AI and One UI 9 Integration Running on One UI 9, the S26 FE incorporates several system-level AI tools: * Now Brief: Customizable briefing cards for weather, wellness, and schedules that users can generate using natural language prompts. * Now Nudge: Contextual suggestions expanded across select third-party notifications. * Circle to Search with Google: Multi-item image search capabilities within a single query interface. It will get 7 generations of OS upgrades and 7 years of security patches. Samsung Galaxy S26 FE specifications * 6.7-inch (2340×1080 pixels) FHD+ Infinity-O Dynamic AMOLED Display, 120Hz refresh rate, up to 1900 nits peak brightness * Up to 3.2GHz GPU Deca-Core Samsung Exynos 2500 3nm processor with Samsung Xclipse 950 GPU * 8GB RAM, 128GB / 256GB / 512GB storage * Android 17 with One UI 9 * Dual SIM * 50MP rear camera with f/1.8 aperture, OIS, 12MP 123˚ Ultra Wide sensor, f/2.2 aperture, 8MP Telephoto camera with OIS, 3X Optical Zoom, f/2.4 aperture * 12MP front camera with f/2.2 aperture * Water-resistant (IP68) * USB Type-C audio, Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos * In-display fingerprint scanner * Dimensions: 161.6 x 76.9 x 7.4mm; Weight: 193 g * 5G SA/NSA, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax (2.4/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.4, GPS + GLONASS, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1, NFC * 4,900mAh (typical) battery with support for 45W wired fast charging, 15W wireless charging, Wireless PowerShare Pricing and Availability The Samsung Galaxy S26 FE comes in three colorways: Blueberry, Graphite, and Pistachio. It starts at USD 699.99 (Rs. 66,840 approx.) and will be available starting September 4 in select markets globally. India launch is expected soon.