Samsung Reportedly Adjusting Galaxy S26 Design in Response to Apple’s Pricing Strategy
Recent reports suggest potential design modifications for Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26. Initial specifications indicated a planned thickness of 6.9mm. However, this has reportedly been revised to 7.24mm, according to sources.
A subsequent report emanating from South Korea provides further insight into the rationale behind these adjustments. The core driver appears to be Apple’s pricing strategy for the forthcoming iPhone 17. Specifically, Samsung purportedly aims to maintain price parity with the iPhone 17, which, according to market expectations, will remain priced at $799 in the United States, consistent with its predecessor.
This pricing objective has reportedly influenced several design choices for the Galaxy S26. Cost-saving measures include a reduction in battery capacity. The original design intended a 4,900 mAh battery; this has been revised to 4,300 mAh. This modification, along with the altered dimensions, reflects a strategic decision to avoid a price increase for the S26, mirroring the expected price point of the iPhone 17.
This strategy suggests that Samsung anticipated an increase in the iPhone 17’s price, planning to introduce a slimmer profile and enhanced battery capacity for the S26 at a matching price point. However, the iPhone 17’s unchanged pricing necessitated a reconsideration of these upgrades to maintain competitive pricing.
In contrast to the standard Galaxy S26, the S26+ is slated to retain the thickness and battery capacity of its predecessor. The Galaxy S26 Ultra, however, is projected to incorporate a 5,000 mAh battery within a shell that is 0.3mm thinner than the S25 Ultra. Furthermore, the S26 Ultra is expected to feature Samsung Display’s “Flex Magic Pixel” technology, enabling an electronic privacy screen functionality.
Source: (Korean Language Source)
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