Samsung Galaxy S26 Looms: Should You Buy Now or Wait?

The Android smartphone landscape is dominated by Samsung Galaxy devices, offering a diverse range of models and features to rival even the mighty iPhone. But with the impending launch of the Galaxy S26 series, potential buyers face a crucial question: is now the right time to buy? Samsung is scheduled to announce its new flagship phones on February 25th at a Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco.

For those seeking the absolute best Samsung has to offer, patience may be a virtue. Waiting for the S26 announcement allows a direct comparison with the current S25 series, enabling an informed decision based on new features, performance improvements, and design changes. Furthermore, the launch of a new generation often triggers price drops on previous models, presenting an opportunity to snag the S25 or S25+ at a discounted rate.

One of Samsung's strengths is its commitment to long-term software support. Select Galaxy phones, including the A-series (A16 and up), receive up to 6 or 7 years of software updates, encompassing both Android operating system upgrades and crucial monthly security patches. This extended support ensures that your device remains secure, functional, and up-to-date with the latest features, mitigating the need for frequent upgrades. Older devices, may receive four years of OS updates and five years of security patches. This robust software support is a compelling reason to choose Samsung over other Android manufacturers with shorter update cycles. To manually check for pending software updates on your phone, go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Always remember to back up your phone before installing any update.

Beyond software, consider the hardware and features. While the Galaxy S25 series (including the S25 and S25+) boasts impressive specifications such as vibrant AMOLED displays, powerful processors, and versatile camera systems, the S26 promises potential advancements in these areas. Also, it's beneficial to buy your Samsung phone unlocked. Unlocked phones offer the flexibility to switch carriers without restrictions and often receive software updates faster. Purchasing unlocked devices directly from Samsung or retailers like Amazon or Best Buy provides greater control over your mobile experience.

However, Samsung has a frustrating habit of disabling certain advanced features by default. New users are encouraged to delve into the settings menu to customize their device and unlock hidden functionalities, like enabling gesture navigation, displaying battery percentage, or optimizing the always-on display. Moreover, Samsung's implementation of “Qi2 Ready” technology is generating confusion. While the 2025 flagship phones are technically “Qi2 Ready” with the capability to support Qi2 if paired with a magnetic case, the S25 series lacks native built-in magnets, hindering true Qi2 wireless charging compatibility. The S26 series is also rumored not to have native Qi2 support. It's also worth noting that Samsung phones sold in different regions might have different processors. US models often use Qualcomm Snapdragon chips, while other regions use Samsung's own Exynos processors. While the performance gap has narrowed in recent years, it remains a factor to consider, particularly regarding camera image processing and potential overheating issues.

Ultimately, the decision to buy now or wait depends on individual needs and priorities. If the latest and greatest technology is paramount, holding out for the Galaxy S26 launch is advisable. However, if a significant price discount on a still-capable device is more appealing, the Galaxy S25 series presents a compelling option. By carefully weighing these factors and considering the broader Android ecosystem, consumers can make an informed choice that aligns with their specific requirements and budget. Pay special attention to the potential discounts on older models following the Galaxy Unpacked event.