Samsung Electronics on Wednesday launched its much anticipated Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup in Kenya, with a deeper artificial intelligence integration, upgraded cameras and a new privacy-focused display to drive demand in the premium segment.
The Galaxy S26 range comprising the S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra is Samsung’s third generation of AI-centric smartphones, designed to automate everyday tasks such as planning, searching and content editing while operating largely in the background.
Samsung said the devices combine customised chipsets, improved thermal systems and AI-optimised software to deliver consistent all-day performance without compromising security or battery life.
Performance and hardware
The flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra is powered by a customised Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, delivering gains of up to 19% in CPU performance, 39% in AI processing and 24% in graphics performance, according to the company.
A redesigned vapour chamber improves heat dissipation during gaming, video capture and multitasking, while Super Fast Charging 3.0 allows the device to reach up to 75% battery charge in about 30 minutes.
Cameras and AI features
Samsung said the Galaxy S26 series continues its focus on mobile photography, led by the S26 Ultra’s 200-megapixel main camera, improved low-light performance and support for APV, a professional-grade video codec.
AI-driven tools such as Now Nudge, Now Brief and an upgraded Circle to Search aim to reduce friction between intent and action, while an enhanced Bixby assistant and third-party AI agents enable users to complete multi-step tasks using natural language.
Privacy and security
The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces what Samsung calls the mobile industry’s first built-in Privacy Display, designed to limit side-angle visibility at the pixel level while maintaining normal viewing quality for the user.
Additional safeguards include AI-powered call screening, real-time privacy alerts, post-quantum cryptography protections and seven years of security updates via Samsung’s Knox platform.
Kenyan market pricing
Samsung said pricing in Kenya is as follows:
- Galaxy S26 Ultra
512GB – KSh 197,300
256GB – KSh 171,400 - Galaxy S26+
512GB – KSh 170,300
256GB – KSh 144,400 - Galaxy S26
512GB – KSh 147,700
256GB – KSh 120,000
Availability
Samsung said pre-orders for the Galaxy S26 series opened on Wednesday, with devices available in colours including Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue, alongside online-exclusive finishes. Samsung Care+ coverage will be offered with the devices, providing extended warranty and accidental damage protection.
The launch comes as smartphone makers increasingly turn to AI-driven features and stronger privacy assurances to differentiate high-end devices in a maturing global market.