With 2026 just days away, fresh leaks suggest Samsung is taking a cautious design approach for its next flagship. Early visuals suggest the Galaxy S26 may closely resemble its predecessor rather than introduce a bold redesign.
Recent leaks also suggest the next Galaxy Unpacked could be later than usual. If accurate, Samsung may push the Galaxy S26 launch back by several weeks, likely into February 2026.
Well-known tipster OnLeaks shared multiple posts showing what appear to be Galaxy S26 dummy units. Dummy models are non-functional but typically reflect the final dimensions and external design.
The leaked units suggest that the most significant visual change is in the camera housing. Instead of separate rings, the Galaxy S26 may adopt a pill-shaped camera bump similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series. Three lenses are housed in a single raised module.
First look at the Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra! 📱✨
It’s giving "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it." Samsung seems to be sticking with the familiar silhouette, though the Ultra’s corners are looking even more rounded this year.
What’s your take? Is the design too safe, or is… pic.twitter.com/uKAKqkqsQN
— Yash (@Phonenurd) December 30, 2025
The rest of the phone looks largely unchanged. The frame, button placement, and overall silhouette closely mirror the Galaxy S25 line. This consistency supports earlier reports based on One UI 8.5 design files spotted this month.
Images shared by OnLeaks include dummy models of both the Galaxy S26 and the S26 Ultra. The Ultra variant shows a minor inconsistency near the periscope telephoto camera, where a rounded cutout appears instead of the usual square shape. That detail further suggests these are early production dummies rather than retail units.
We've got some fresh leaks around the Galaxy S26 handsets, which are expected around February time. https://t.co/Trx9dgMG9Q
— TechRadar (@techradar) December 31, 2025
A short video leak also shows the Galaxy S26 Ultra in two different colours. While the devices look convincing, the lack of branding reinforces that they are design models rather than finished phones.
The likelihood of a January Unpacked event now appears low. Industry watchers expect Samsung to hold its Galaxy S26 launch in February instead, continuing a recent trend of slightly delayed flagship unveilings.
If the leaks prove accurate, Samsung is prioritising refinement over reinvention for 2026. The Galaxy S26 may focus more on internal upgrades and software polish than on dramatic visual changes.