With the start of 2026, technology enthusiasts are turning their attention to a new batch of anticipated smartphones, which are expected to combine the latest technologies, while leaks indicate changes in phone launch plans at major companies, led by “Apple” and “Samsung.”
Although some phones do not see major changes from year to year, models that deviate from this usual pattern often stand out strongly in the market.
It seems that 2026 will be one of these special years, especially with the news circulating about the first foldable “iPhone,” in addition to major improvements in processors, cameras, and artificial intelligence technologies.
Here are five of the most prominent smartphones expected to be launched during 2026, according to the “Tom’s Guide” website:
“iPhone 18 Pro” – September 2026
Despite expectations of postponing the launch of the basic version of the “iPhone 18” to 2027, expectations indicate that “Apple” will maintain its usual date in the fall to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
According to leaks, the external design may not see major changes compared to the previous generation, after the noticeable change that the “iPhone 17 Pro” witnessed, but the most important updates may be in the internal components. Among them is the possibility of using a main camera with a variable aperture, allowing control of the amount of light during shooting.
The phone is also expected to be powered by the new “A20 Pro” processor, manufactured with 2nm technology, compared to the “A19 Pro” processor with 3nm technology, which means a significant increase in performance and power consumption efficiency. At the software level, the phone is likely to benefit from an improved version of the “Siri” voice assistant supported by artificial intelligence, which is supposed to be launched within the iOS 26 update.
“iPhone Fold” – September 2026
After years of waiting, “Apple” may officially enter the foldable phone market through the iPhone Fold, in a move that is expected to have a major impact on the market.
Leaks indicate that the phone may come with an internal screen size of 7.8 inches and an external screen size of 5.5 inches, with a special focus on reducing or eliminating the screen “crease,” which is a problem that this type of device has always faced. The phone is also expected to rely on the same “A20 Pro” processor used in the “iPhone 18 Pro.”
Among the most controversial aspects is the talk about a camera embedded under the screen, despite the criticism directed at this technology in other phones. As for the price, it is likely to range between $2,000 and $2,500, which puts “Apple” in front of the challenge of justifying this price in light of the strong competition from devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold.
“Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra”
“Samsung” is preparing to launch a new generation of the Galaxy S series, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to top the list as the most advanced model.
According to leaks, the phone will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, while other versions may rely on the Exynos 2600 processor. The phone is also likely to receive significant improvements in photography capabilities, including a larger aperture for shooting in low light, in addition to developing the 3x optical zoom lens.
Reports also indicate the possibility of adding exclusive artificial intelligence features to the “Ultra” model. As for the launch date, it may be delayed from the usual, as leaks indicate that it will be announced in late February, to be available in the markets during March.
“Google Pixel 11” – August 2026
Although “Google” phones do not compete with “Apple” and “Samsung” in terms of sales, the “Pixel” series continues to strengthen its position in the field of artificial intelligence.
The Pixel 11 series is expected to come with the same non-foldable options that were introduced in the previous generation, with the adoption of the new Tensor G6 processor, manufactured with 2nm technology, which puts “Google” phones on an equal footing technically with the most prominent competitors.
Leaks also talk about significant improvements in photography technologies, including the development of “cinematic blur” mode with support for 4K video recording, in addition to advanced features for shooting in very low light, which is likely to be processed directly on the device.
“Galaxy Z Fold 8” – Summer 2026
Before “Apple” officially enters the foldable phone market, “Samsung” is preparing to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which leaks indicate will carry significant improvements in design and weight.
The main screen is expected to come with a less noticeable crease, with a more spacious and elongated design, in addition to improving battery life, which is one of the most prominent challenges facing foldable phones. Korean reports also indicate that the phone may be lighter than its predecessor, as part of “Samsung’s” efforts to enhance ease of carrying and use.
Other anticipated releases
In addition to these five phones, leaks indicate other devices that may appear during 2026, including a lighter version of the Galaxy Z Flip, and new generations of Motorola foldable phones. “Apple” and “Google” are also expected to launch mid-range phones before the middle of the year, which may receive increasing attention in light of the talk about rising prices of flagship phones.
