Samsung is gearing up for its next major Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25 in San Francisco, where it will officially introduce the highly anticipated Galaxy S26 series. The company is expected to unveil three smartphones: the Samsung Galaxy S26, Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus, and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. Alongside these devices, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 series will also make its debut.
For viewers in India, the event livestream begins at 11:30 pm IST via Samsung’s official YouTube channel and newsroom. This year’s launch appears to focus heavily on artificial intelligence enhancements and new privacy-focused display technologies, signaling a shift toward more intelligent and context-aware mobile experiences.
Key Takeaways
- The Galaxy Unpacked event will be held on February 25 at 11:30 pm IST for Indian viewers.
- Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra.
- A new “Zero-Peeking Privacy” feature aims to protect screen content in public spaces.
- Perplexity AI will be integrated alongside Google Gemini.
- Galaxy Buds 4 may feature a redesigned flat charging case.
Privacy Display and Zero-Peeking Technology
One of the most talked-about additions in the Galaxy S26 lineup is the new Privacy Display feature. Samsung seems to be addressing a very real, everyday concern: people glancing at your screen in crowded environments such as metro trains, airports, or cafés. It happens more often than we admit.
The Privacy Display allows users to selectively hide sensitive content such as text messages, passwords, or notifications. There is also a dedicated “Zero-Peeking” mode that can instantly mask the entire screen if the device detects someone else looking at it. While Samsung has not fully detailed how the detection mechanism works, it appears to rely on advanced sensors and AI processing.
In theory, this could add an extra layer of security without forcing users to manually dim their screens or adjust viewing angles. It sounds practical, though real-world performance will ultimately determine how seamless it feels.
Deeper AI Integration with Perplexity and Gemini
Samsung is also expanding its AI ecosystem. The Galaxy S26 series will integrate Perplexity, an AI-powered search engine, as a built-in assistant option alongside Google Gemini. Users can reportedly activate it by long-pressing the side button or using the “Hey Plex” voice command.
This setup allows users to access web information, summarize data, or perform app-related tasks without switching between multiple platforms. Samsung is not replacing Gemini but rather offering an additional AI pathway, which is an interesting strategy.
In addition, Samsung’s own assistant, Bixby, is receiving a major upgrade under One UI 8.5. The new version aims to better understand natural language commands. Instead of manually navigating menus, users may simply ask the assistant to adjust settings or retrieve online data. It feels like Samsung is trying to make interactions more conversational, perhaps more fluid than before.
Galaxy S26 Ultra Specifications
The Galaxy S26 Ultra will remain the flagship of the series, and based on reports, it carries substantial hardware upgrades.
It is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset. The device will reportedly retain a 5,000mAh battery capable of charging up to 75 percent in approximately 30 minutes. Fast charging continues to be a priority here.
On the camera front, the hardware may look familiar. The Ultra is likely to keep a 200MP primary sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens. However, Samsung could redesign the camera island to resemble the styling seen in the Galaxy Z Fold lineup. Even if the core sensors remain unchanged, improved AI-based image processing might deliver noticeable refinements in photography performance.
Sometimes, optimization matters just as much as new hardware. Perhaps even more.
Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus Specifications
The standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus are expected to use either Snapdragon or Exynos 2600 chipsets depending on the region. This regional chipset strategy is not new for Samsung, though it often sparks discussion among buyers.
The Galaxy S26 Plus will likely feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display paired with a 4,900mAh battery. Meanwhile, the standard Galaxy S26 is expected to offer a 6.3-inch display and a 4,300mAh battery.
Both models are anticipated to retain a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP main sensor and a 10MP telephoto lens for zoom photography. While not dramatically different on paper, software enhancements and AI optimizations may refine overall performance and imaging output.
Galaxy Buds 4 Design and Features
Beyond smartphones, Samsung will also introduce the Galaxy Buds 4 series. The company appears to be moving away from the “Blade Lights” design seen in earlier models, opting instead for a more compact and minimal approach.
The charging case is expected to transition from a vertical standing style to a flatter, more traditional design. This subtle change might improve portability and pocket comfort, though that is somewhat subjective.
The standard Galaxy Buds 4 will reportedly incorporate Bluetooth Low Energy technology. This should help reduce power consumption during routine tasks such as syncing with a phone or maintaining a connection in standby mode. Improved sound quality and battery life enhancements are also anticipated, though full specifications will be confirmed at launch.
FAQs
Q1: When is the Samsung Galaxy S26 launch date in India?
A1: The global launch event takes place on February 25, 2026. In India, the livestream begins at 11:30 pm IST on the same day.
Q2: What is the Zero-Peeking Privacy feature?
A2: Zero-Peeking Privacy is a new display setting in the Galaxy S26 series that prevents nearby individuals from viewing private information. It can automatically blur or hide screen content in public environments.
Q3: Will the Galaxy S26 Ultra have a new camera?
A3: The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to retain its 200MP primary sensor and zoom lenses. However, it may feature a redesigned camera island and enhanced AI processing for improved image results.
Q4: What is new in the Galaxy Buds 4?
A4: The Galaxy Buds 4 series will introduce a more compact design with a flat charging case. Bluetooth Low Energy support is expected to improve battery efficiency and overall connectivity.
