Everything to expect at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: New phones, more AI features

Source: Mashable Tech

Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked is almost here, and if the leaks are to be believed, the Galaxy S26 series won’t just be a routine refresh. Between hardware tweaks, a redesigned One UI, upgraded earbuds, and a heavier AI push, there’s a lot on deck.

Here’s everything to expect ahead of Galaxy Unpacked 2026 on Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. ET. You can watch along with Mashable and our colleagues at CNET during the show.

Galaxy S26 lineup: Base, Plus, Ultra — and maybe more?

Despite earlier rumors of a shake‑up, Samsung is now expected to stick with a familiar trio: Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra. Reports that the base model would be rebranded as “Pro” and that the Plus would be scrapped appear to have fizzled.

Leaker Evan Blass recently posted the potential color options on X, including:

• Black
• White
• Silver Shadow
• Sky Blue
• Cobalt Violet
• Pink Gold

Specs (rumored)

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (some regions may get an Exynos variant)
• RAM: Up to 16 GB across models
• Battery: S26 Ultra rumored to have a 5,500 mAh stacked battery (≈10 % larger than its predecessor)
• Camera: Ultra could retain a 200 MP main sensor (possibly upgraded); base and Plus may keep a 50 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP triple‑lens setup

The fate of the previously rumored S26 Edge remains unclear; it may be delayed or quietly scrapped.

Leaks and early looks

Credit: Screenshot courtesy of YouTube / Sahil Karoul

Tech YouTuber Sahil Karoul appears to have secured a Galaxy S26 Ultra in Dubai ahead of its official debut. You can watch the full video here.

The rumored Galaxy Buds 4 have also been the subject of a steady drip of leaks (more on this shortly).

Galaxy AI features

AI is a major through‑line heading into Unpacked. Reported additions include:

• An AI‑powered notifications summary tool that condenses 24 hours of alerts into a quick digest using Samsung’s Gauss model.
• Deeper third‑party integrations, such as a possible pre‑load of Perplexity on the S26, which could reshape how Samsung’s browser and virtual assistant handle search.
• Upgraded Photo Assist tools and generative image features for more seamless editing and creation within a unified AI editing experience. (The new AI photo features were recently confirmed by Samsung.)

Privacy Display and One UI 8.5

The S26 lineup is expected to debut with One UI 8.5, which will bring a significant visual refresh and new features.

• Privacy Display: A built‑in screen mode that mimics a frosted screen protector to block shoulder surfers.
• More transparent UI elements inspired by Apple’s Liquid Glass aesthetic.
• The AI‑powered notifications summary tool (mentioned above) may support multiple languages at launch.

Leaker Ice Universe posted an old video showing a prototype of Privacy Display, confirming the feature is in development.

Galaxy Buds 4

Samsung is also expected to unveil the Galaxy Buds 4 series alongside the S26 phones.

According to Android Authority, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro could support:

• Head gestures (nod or shake to answer calls or dismiss notifications)
• Remote shutter for the camera app (pinch and hold to snap a photo)
• A “Find My Phone” feature triggered by double‑tapping the pairing button on the case

These earbuds aim to deepen integration with the new Galaxy ecosystem and showcase Samsung’s push toward AI‑enhanced user experiences.