Samsung’s latest phone release was expected to bring much-needed upgrades, but those plans seem to have taken a backseat as the company prioritized avoiding price hikes. Instead of investing in new features, Samsung seems to be going for cost-cutting measures. Leaked prices suggest that the base model Galaxy S26 will start at €1,049, while the Ultra version will cost €1,399.
In comparison, last year’s models are still on offer in many markets, making it hard for consumers to see the value in the new devices. The lack of significant upgrades is a disappointment, especially considering the prices seem to be increasing despite there being no major improvements. This raises questions about whether Samsung made the right decision by prioritizing cost-cutting over investing in new features.
The tech industry’s ongoing volatility plays a role in these price hikes, but it doesn’t make them any more palatable for consumers who were expecting more from their latest purchases. The situation feels like a lose-lose for everyone involved.
Source: https://9to5google.com/2026/02/05/samsung-galaxy-s26-upgrades-price-hike