Only one Samsung phone is worth buying now, and it's not a Galaxy S26
Android Authority • • technology
Key Points:
- The ongoing AI-driven RAM crisis is causing minimal flagship smartphone upgrades and looming price hikes in 2026, making last year’s models more cost-effective purchases.
- Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series shows little innovation beyond last year’s S25 models, with only the Ultra’s Privacy Display standing out, but it comes with issues.
- The newly launched Galaxy A57 5G offers meaningful upgrades including a more powerful Exynos 1680 processor, a lighter and thinner metal frame, improved IP68 water resistance, and a brighter 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display.
- Unlike other models, the Galaxy A57 5G avoids unnecessary AI-related RAM inflation and gimmicks, keeping its price reasonable despite a $50 increase over last year’s A56 5G.
- For users seeking a balanced, affordable Samsung phone in 2026, the Galaxy A57 5G is the best buy, while flagship models from Samsung and other brands are expected to either stagnate or become prohibitively expensive.
