Samsung may have unintentionally revealed the design of its next flagship smartphones through internal software assets. Images reportedly found in unreleased One UI 8.5 code suggest the visual direction of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup.
According to reports, the code includes clear renders of three models expected to launch early next year. These are believed to be the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. The images align closely with previous leaks and point to a conservative design update rather than a radical refresh.
The renders show vertically stacked rear cameras grouped on a dedicated island, paired with gently curved corners. Overall proportions and styling appear consistent with the Galaxy S25 series, suggesting Samsung may prioritize refinement over reinvention for its next flagship cycle.
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No major design shift expected this year
If the leaked images are accurate, Samsung seems set to maintain continuity across generations. The overall silhouette, camera layout, and panel curvature show little deviation from the current lineup.
Reports also indicate there will be no Galaxy S26 Edge model next year, narrowing the range back to three core devices. Launch timing is expected between January and March, consistent with Samsung’s recent flagship release windows.
This approach may appeal to users who value design stability, but it could also raise questions about differentiation in an increasingly competitive Android market.
Exynos 2600 may be limited to South Korea
Alongside the design leak, a separate report has revived speculation around Samsung’s next in-house processor. According to South Korean sources, the Exynos 2600 may only ship in Galaxy S26 models sold in South Korea.
The report cites ongoing production and yield challenges as key reasons behind the limited rollout. This would mark a restrained use of Exynos hardware compared to earlier strategies, where Samsung deployed its own chips across multiple regions.
Notably, none of the Galaxy S25 models featured the Exynos 2500, although that processor did appear in the Galaxy Z Flip 7. This uneven deployment reflects Samsung’s shifting confidence in its semiconductor roadmap.
Snapdragon expected to dominate global models
For markets outside South Korea, Samsung is widely expected to rely on Qualcomm’s next flagship chipset, likely the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
Samsung’s Exynos strategy has changed frequently over the years, often depending on performance parity, manufacturing readiness, and regional considerations. While previous rumors suggested a wider Exynos comeback in 2026, the latest reports indicate a more cautious approach.
Until Samsung makes an official announcement, both the design details and processor strategy remain subject to change.
