Samsung's 2026 Phone Guide: Ultra, Fold, and Budget Models

According to reviews, the device comes with a less noticeable screen crease and a stronger hinge compared to the previous model. The triple camera system, including a 200-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide angle, and a 10-megapixel telephoto lens, is considered the company's best camera setup among foldable phones.

Galaxy S26 FE: Budget-Friendly but Limited Update

Priced at around $700, the Galaxy S26 FE includes features such as good battery life, a large screen, and a triple camera system. However, according to reviews, the device does not offer innovations that justify the $100 extra charge compared to last year's S25 FE model, which has nearly identical features.

According to the source, although the processor has been somewhat improved, Samsung's downgrading of the USB-C port to the USB 2.0 standard stands out. Therefore, reviewers recommend opting for the S25 FE model if it is still available in stock.

2025 Foldable Models: Alternative Options

For those looking for more affordable foldable phones, the 2025 models Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 can be considered if found at a discount. The Fold7 differs from the Fold8 Ultra with its slightly thicker body and more noticeable screen crease; its battery life and ultra-wide camera are also weaker.

The Flip7 model, on the other hand, has differences compared to the Flip8, such as hinge improvements, a lighter design, a faster processor, and more useful software features for the external screen.

Galaxy S25 Edge: Slim Design, Compromised Battery

Priced at $1,300, the Galaxy S25 Edge stands out with its 5.8 mm thick body. According to reviews, the device includes some features of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, such as a titanium frame, reinforced front glass, and 4K 120 fps video recording.

However, significant compromises have been made for this slimness: there is no stylus support or telephoto camera, and the 3,900 mAh battery capacity is insufficient for heavy use. Reviewers find this model worth considering for users who are always near a charging source and value a lightweight design.

Galaxy A17 5G: Limited Experience in the Budget Segment

Priced at $249, the Galaxy A17 5G promises features such as six years of software support, an AMOLED screen, expandable storage, and a decent camera. However, according to reviews, the US model having only 4 GB of RAM negatively affects the overall user experience.

According to the source, the device is not considered a reliable phone in emergencies. Reviewers note that this model may be sufficient only for users with very basic needs.

Galaxy AI Features

According to Samsung's announcement, Galaxy AI is a suite of artificial intelligence features introduced with the Galaxy S24 series and powered by Google's Gemini large language models. These features include real-time translation during phone calls, transcription of voice recordings, summarization of long texts, and changing sentence tone via the keyboard.

In the Galaxy S25 series, Gemini was added as the default voice assistant and the Drawing Assist feature was made available. In the Galaxy S26 series, the document scanner in the camera app can now erase fingers and wrinkles, Audio Eraser can reduce background noise in any media app, and there is a built-in call screening feature that filters unwanted calls.

What is Samsung DeX?

According to the company's announcement, Samsung DeX, introduced in 2017, allows the phone to connect to an external monitor and provide a desktop Android experience. In this mode, Android apps can be resized and opened in separate windows.

To use DeX, a compatible monitor, mouse, keyboard, and connection cable are required; wireless casting to selected screens is also possible. According to the source, this feature offers a practical solution for those working temporarily in a different office or in environments like cafes, but it is not considered a permanent laptop alternative.

Status of the Galaxy Z TriFold

According to the source, the Galaxy Z TriFold, which went on sale in the US in January with a starting price of $2,800, was discontinued three months later due to high production costs. The device had attracted attention with its foldable structure that can transform from a compact phone into a 10-inch tablet.

Reviewers state that the experience offered by the device is impressive but does not justify its high price. It is emphasized that with the same budget, one could buy both a high-end phone and a quality tablet.

Ecosystem and Testing Process

According to the company's announcement, Samsung is one of the few manufacturers offering a hardware ecosystem similar to Apple's. The experience can be expanded with products such as the Galaxy Watch8 smartwatch, Galaxy Buds4 Pro earphones, Galaxy Ring fitness ring, Galaxy Tab S11 tablet, and Windows-based Galaxy laptops.

During the review process, each Samsung phone is tested in daily use for several weeks with a personal SIM card inserted. Camera performance is compared with similarly priced devices, gaming performance is measured, and all new features are tried out.