Samsung Galaxy S26: A Novel Era of Smartphone Innovation and Pre-Order Deals
Samsung has officially launched the Galaxy S26 series – the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra – at Galaxy Unpacked. These new handsets boast hardware upgrades, including the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and now start with 256GB of storage across all three models.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Powering the Next Generation
The Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out by exclusively featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy in all regions. This processor, unveiled by Qualcomm, is designed to deliver smoother graphics and improved performance. Benchmarks indicate the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy is up to 18% faster than the Exynos 2600 in Geekbench 6’s single-core and multi-core results. While the Exynos 2600 boasts a faster GPU, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 currently leads in overall CPU performance.
Privacy Takes Center Stage with the S26 Ultra’s Privacy Display
A world-first feature, the Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a built-in Privacy Screen. This innovative technology dims the display when viewed from the sides, protecting sensitive information from prying eyes. This addresses growing concerns about visual privacy in public spaces.
Pre-Order Deals: Saving on the Galaxy S26 Series
Pre-orders for all three handsets are now open, with a range of deals available directly from Samsung Australia, major telcos, and various retailers.
Direct from Samsung Australia: Exclusive TechRadar Offer
An exclusive code from TechRadar unlocks a significant saving when purchasing directly from Samsung Australia. Using the code S26TECH at checkout, customers can secure the 1TB/16GB RAM variant of the Galaxy S26 Ultra for AU$2,499 – a AU$450 discount. Bundling with selected accessories, including the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro, can increase savings up to AU$700.
Amazon: Storage Upgrades and Prime Benefits
Amazon is matching Samsung’s storage upgrade offer, increasing base models to 512GB. Amazon Prime subscribers can save an additional AU$300. A free Amazon Prime trial is available for those not already members.
JB Hi-Fi: Trade-In Savings
JB Hi-Fi similarly offers free storage upgrades until March 10, 2026. Customers can receive an extra AU$300 off the handset price by trading in a qualifying device, with a minimum trade-in value of AU$1.
The Good Guys: Competitive Pricing
The Good Guys provides similar storage upgrade promotions as JB Hi-Fi, with slightly lower handset prices. However, they do not offer a trade-in option.
Telco Deals: Monthly Payment Options
Vodafone: Discounts and Trade-In Offers
Vodafone is discounting the Galaxy S26 lineup by up to AU$700 with 24- or 36-month plans. An additional AU$300 discount is available with a qualifying trade-in. Discounts range from AU$400 off the base S26 to AU$700 off the S26 Ultra.
Optus: Bundled Accessories
Optus offers comparable discounts to Vodafone on 24- or 36-month plans, with up to AU$700 off the S26 Ultra. Customers can also receive a free Galaxy Watch 8 40mm with selected Watch Plans.
Beyond the S26: The Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro
Alongside the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro. These earbuds also have pre-order discounts and can be bundled with Galaxy S26 handsets for additional savings.
FAQ
Q: Which Galaxy S26 model has the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in all regions?
A: The Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Q: What is the Privacy Display feature?
A: It dims the screen when viewed from the sides to protect your privacy.
Q: Where can I find the best pre-order deals?
A: Deals are available from Samsung Australia, Amazon, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, Vodafone, and Optus.
Q: What is the code for the exclusive TechRadar discount on the Samsung Australia website?
A: S26TECH
