QuickQuickSamsung exec confirms you can blame RAM — and other materials — for the Galaxy S26’s higher pricetag
AI-curated by Q²N · Updated February 26, 2026
Samsung has acknowledged that the higher price of the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus is influenced by several factors, particularly a shortage of RAM. Won-Joon Choi, COO of Samsung's mobile division, stated that the memory shortage has made a significant impact on pricing. Additionally, rising material costs and tariffs have contributed to the $100 increase compared to previous models. However, the S26 does offer double the storage this year, starting at 256GB. This combination of factors has led to the perception that the new models are 'more of the same for more money.'
- Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus see a $100 price increase.
- RAM shortage significantly impacts pricing, according to Samsung.
- Rising material costs and tariffs also contribute to higher prices.
- S26 models come with double the storage at 256GB.
- Samsung describes the new models as 'more of the same for more money.'
Related articles
- Technology1 min read
Google paid startup Form Energy $1B for its massive 100-hour battery
Google has made a significant investment in the energy sector by acquiring startup Form Energy for $1 billion. This deal is expected to facilitate Form Energy in raising a new funding round, potential…
Technology1 min readSmartphone sales could be in for their biggest drop ever
The smartphone industry is projected to face a significant decline in 2026, driven by a RAM shortage linked to the demands of AI companies. According to a report from the International Data Corporatio…
Technology1 min readWhy no magnets in Galaxy S26? Samsung R&D chief explains
Samsung's R&D chief, Won-Joon Choi, explains the company's decision to exclude magnets from the Galaxy S26. He argues that the added thickness of magnets is not worth the tradeoff, especially since a …