Samsung Galaxy S26 line-up launched with new privacy screen; prices start at $1,438

SINGAPORE – Samsung’s

new series of Galaxy S26

smartphones

opened for pre-orders on Feb 26, boasting new features such as a privacy display and an artificial intelligence tool that can help users with scheduling events.

Storage capacity for the trio of devices – the base S26 model, S26+ and S26 Ultra – ranges from 256GB to 1TB, with a starting price of $1,438.

The previous series offered a wider range of storage options. The 128GB

Galaxy S25 model

launched in February 2025 was priced at US$799 (S$1,000), though this model was not available to customers in Singapore.

Among the latest offerings in the new line-up is the built-in privacy display on the S26 Ultra, which limits what those around the user can see.

Unlike traditional stick-on privacy films, this display preserves viewing quality when the feature is turned off, and limits screen visibility from side angles when activated, said Samsung in a statement on Feb 26.

It added: “Users can customise when it turns on – such as when entering PINs and passwords or opening selected apps – and adjust privacy levels depending on the situation.”

Users will also receive automated suggestions with Now Nudge, a new feature found in the S26 series.

The AI tool works by analysing chat messages in Samsung Messages and WhatsApp, and is powered by Galaxy AI – a suite of AI features that were developed by Samsung.

“When receiving a message about a meeting, Galaxy S26 can recognise related calendar entries and check for conflicts,” said Samsung.

“If a friend asks for photos from a recent trip, Galaxy S26 automatically suggests photos from the Gallery, removing the need to search through albums or switch between apps.”

A call-screening feature, which is also powered by Galaxy AI, can pick up calls from unknown numbers, and speak on behalf of users to check the caller’s identity and intention for calling. This feature can be activated in the phone’s settings.

While the conversation is ongoing, a transcript will show up on screen, allowing users to decide if they want to pick up the call.

A similar anti-scam call-screening feature was also introduced for Apple users with the latest iOS 26 update.

Pre-orders for the Galaxy S26 series can be made online and at Samsung stores, local telco operator shops, and selected consumer electronic stores.

Buyers can pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 512GB ($2,128) with a news subscription from The Straits Times or The Business Times, and get a $690 exclusive discount. More details can be found at

sph.sg/samsung-sted