Samsung continues to push boundaries in foldable smartphones, and the Samsung W26 is the latest incarnation of that ambition. Launched exclusively in China, the W26 builds upon the foundation laid by the Galaxy Z Fold 7 — but adds its own enhancements such as satellite connectivity, higher memory options, and premium finishes.
In this post, we’ll break down all the features, specifications, pricing, availability, and what makes the W26 stand out (or fall short). Whether you’re a foldable enthusiast or a tech-curious reader, this will help you understand whether the W26 is worth your attention.
Key Highlights:
- Samsung W26 brings a foldable 8-inch main display and a 6.5-inch cover display
- Sports a 200-megapixel primary camera
- Exclusive launch in China; based on Galaxy Z Fold 7 design
- Comes with a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip
- Supports direct satellite connectivity (Tiantong)
- Pricing: CNY 16,999 (~ ₹2,11,600) for 16 GB + 512 GB, and CNY 18,999 (~ ₹2,36,500) for 16 GB + 1 TB
- Ships with Android 16 / One UI 8, 4,400 mAh battery, 25W wired charging, Armor Aluminum frame
Samsung W26: Specifications & Features
Display & Design
- Main (inner) display: 8.0-inch AMOLED, QXGA+ (1,968 × 2,184)
- Cover display: 6.5-inch FHD+ (1,080 × 2,520), 120 Hz refresh rate, up to 2,600 nits brightness
- Construction: Armor Aluminum frame for added strength
- Folded dimensions: 158.4 × 72.8 × 8.9 mm
- Unfolded: 158.4 × 143.2 × 4.2 mm
- Weight: ~ 215 g
Performance & Memory
- Processor: Custom Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- RAM / Storage: 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage, or 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage
- Software: Android 16 with One UI 8
- Supports Galaxy AI functions like Smart Collection, Smart Drag & Drop, and Smart Password Manager
Cameras
- Rear / outer cameras: 200MP (primary) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 10MP (3× telephoto)
- Front (selfie) cameras:
- Inner display: 10 MP
- Cover display: 10 MP
Connectivity & Unique Features
- Direct satellite connectivity via China’s Tiantong mobile satellite system — enabling emergency calls and messaging off-network
- Standard connectivity: 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, GPS, USB Type-C
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor
Battery & Charging
- Battery capacity: 4,400 mAh
- Charging: 25W wired fast charging
- No wireless or ultra-fast charging mentioned
Samsung W26 Price & Availability
The Samsung W26 is currently launched only in China in two configurations:
- CNY 16,999 for 16 GB + 512 GB variant (≈ ₹2,11,600)
- CNY 18,999 for 16 GB + 1 TB variant (≈ ₹2,36,500)
It comes in two premium color options: Dan Xihong (red & gold) and Xuan Yao Black (black & gold). Gadgets 360
No international release or Indian launch has been announced yet.
What Sets W26 Apart — And Where It May Disappoint
Pros / Strengths
- Massive 200MP Camera — one of the highest megapixel counts on a phone
- Foldable Brilliance — large 8-inch inner display meets practical cover screen
- Satellite Connectivity — valuable feature for remote areas or emergencies
- High Memory & Storage — 16 GB RAM is generous; 1 TB option is rare
- Premium Build — Armor Aluminum frame adds robustness
Cons / Trade-offs
- High price & limited availability — only China launch, at luxury pricing
- Charging speed is modest — 25W wired only; no fast wireless options mentioned
- Battery capacity — 4,400 mAh might be modest given dual displays
- Weight & size — at 215 g and folding structure, may feel bulky for everyday use
Comparison: Samsung W26 vs Galaxy Z Fold 7
Since W26 is based on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 lineage, it helps to see how they differ:
| Feature | W26 | Galaxy Z Fold 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Satellite Connectivity | ✔ (Tiantong, China only) | ✖ |
| RAM / Storage | 16 GB + up to 1 TB | Generally lower max in some markets |
| Camera | 200 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP | Slightly lower specs in some variants |
| Charging | 25 W wired | Similar or sometimes higher (region dependent) |
| Availability | China-exclusive launch | Global/selected markets |
Should You Wait or Import?
If you’re outside China, your options are:
- Wait for a global variant — Samsung may or may not bring a version of W26 to other markets
- Import — but beware of network compatibility, warranty, and service support
- Buy Galaxy Z Fold series alternatives — more accessible globally with service network support
For many users, the standard Z Fold devices might remain more practical for global use.
Conclusion
The Samsung W26 is a bold statement in the world of foldable smartphones, offering a massive 200MP camera, satellite connectivity, and a premium 8-inch foldable display. With 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage, it’s designed for tech enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance. However, its China-exclusive launch and luxury pricing make it a niche device for now.
For users outside China, waiting for a global variant or opting for other Galaxy Z Fold models might be more practical. Nevertheless, the W26 showcases Samsung’s innovation in foldables, setting a high benchmark for future smartphones.
Content information Source:- https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/samsung-w26-price-launch-availability-specifications-features-9444989
Also read:- Google Pixel 9 Pro Review: The Ultimate AI-Powered Smartphone of 2025
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
When was the Samsung W26 launched?
The Samsung W26 was officially launched in China in 2025. It is based on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 design.
What is the price of the Samsung W26?
16 GB + 512 GB variant: CNY 16,999 (~₹2,11,600)
16 GB + 1 TB variant: CNY 18,999 (~₹2,36,500)
Does the Samsung W26 have a foldable display?
Yes, it features an 8-inch foldable AMOLED main display and a 6.5-inch cover display with 120 Hz refresh rate.
What cameras does the Samsung W26 have?
It sports a 200MP primary camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto camera. The inner and cover displays have 10MP selfie cameras.
Does Samsung W26 support satellite connectivity?
Yes, the W26 supports direct satellite connectivity via China’s Tiantong system for calls and messaging in areas without mobile coverage.
What processor and memory does it have?
It comes with a Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, 16 GB RAM, and storage options of 512 GB or 1 TB.
Is Samsung W26 available globally?
Currently, the W26 is exclusive to China, with no confirmed international release.
What battery and charging features does it have?
The W26 has a 4,400 mAh battery with 25W wired fast charging. Wireless or ultra-fast charging is not mentioned.
How is the Samsung W26 different from Galaxy Z Fold 7?
The W26 adds satellite connectivity, higher memory, premium color finishes, and a few camera upgrades, but is China-exclusive and priced higher.
