Galaxy S26 Leak: Exynos Returns, Feb 25 Unpacked, and Price Predictions (Comprehensive Guide)

The rumors are swirling, and Korean tech blogs are buzzing with leaked schedules. As a tech journalist, I’ve synthesized the latest reports from Naver blogs and industry insiders to give you the most accurate preview of the Galaxy S26.

It’s not just about the chipset; it’s about when you can get it and how much it will hurt your wallet.

1. The Core Issue: Exynos is Back? 🧠

The biggest controversy for the S26 is the "Brain." Unlike the S25 which relied on Snapdragon, strong rumors indicate the S26 (especially in Korea/Europe) will feature the new Samsung Exynos 2600 (3nm).

• Good News: Improved NPU for AI features ("Zero-UI").
• Worry: Can it handle heat better than its predecessors? We will find out soon.

2. Confirmed Schedule: Mark Your Calendars 📅

According to the latest leaks circulating on Korean tech portals, the "January Launch" tradition is broken. Samsung needs more time for the 2nm/3nm chip yield.

• Unpacked Event: February 25, 2026 (Wed)
• Pre-Order Period: Late February ~ Early March
• Official Release: Early March, 2026

3. Price Prediction: Freeze or Hike? 💰

This is the tricky part. With the introduction of the new Titanium body and advanced AI chips, production costs have risen. However, market analysts predict Samsung will likely freeze the price to compete with the iPhone 17.

• S26 Base: Approx. $799 (1.15M KRW)
• S26 Plus: Approx. $999 (1.35M KRW)
• S26 Ultra: Approx. $1,299 (1.69M KRW)

Tip: Pre-order benefits usually include "Double Storage" upgrades, so getting in early is crucial.

The S26 is shaping up to be a pivotal device. The return of Exynos is a gamble, and the delayed launch suggests Samsung is polishing the final product. If you are planning to buy, wait for the Late February Pre-order. I’ll share the link as soon as it goes live.