Galaxy S26 kind of runs a new operating system

The Galaxy S26 isn't just another Android phone.

1comment
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase from the links on this page.
galaxy s26 new operating system ai os
AI OS | Image by Samsung
Thought the Galaxy S26 was another Android phone on the block? Samsung begs to differ. The phone has set the stage for a new operating system that the South Korean giant is working on.

AI OS



Samsung's head of mobile business TM Roh claims the Galaxy S26 line is among the first of its phones to run an AI OS developed in partnership with Google. AI is working at the OS level on the new phones, allowing them to complete complex, multi-app tasks with minimal human input.

That's in contrast with most other smartphones, which require customers to toggle between multiple apps. The company rebuilt its system architecture to achieve this automation.

Despite the marketing hype, AI OS has just started to take shape, and an entirely new operating system doesn't exist just yet. Samsung's COO of Mobile eXperience Business, Won-Joon Choi, and the European division's Chief Marketing Officer, Benjamin Braun, admitted as much. They revealed the company is working on AI OS, which will be based on Android.

Recommended For You

Samsung expects it to be a differentiator, giving it an edge over Apple and other Android competitors.

The company was thin on specifics, but the main idea is that it will be a proactive system, accomplishing tasks without being prompted.

As Tech Radar points out, Samsung gave a preview of its vision when it showed Galaxy AI automatically detecting a restaurant reservation and prompting the user to add it to their calendar without being asked.

Privacy concerns


For its phones to complete a multi-step task, Galaxy AI would require access to various apps and personal data, which might make customers uneasy. Samsung has assuaged those fears by saying that customers will have the option of using on-device AI, rather than sending their data to the cloud.

Recommended For You

In theory, the new operating system sounds intuitive and futuristic, and may change how we use our smartphones.

Can AI OS give an edge to Samsung Galaxy phones?
120 Votes

The future is software


In the run-up to the launch of the Galaxy S26, there was a lot of talk about the lineup being underwhelming in terms of hardware upgrades. With the launch of the Galaxy S26 and its goal to create a new operating system, it's clear that the company wants to elevate the user experience by rolling out more software-based enhancements, rather than focusing on raw specs.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is now available for up to $720 off

$579 99
$1299 99
$720 off (55%)
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has been announced, bringing a Privacy Screen feature, insanely fast processor, and multiple Galaxy AI enhancements. Right now, you can save up to $720 at the Samsung Store with eligible trade-ins. You also get 15% off the Buds 4 series with your purchase. Alternatively, you can get $150 credit for add-ons, no trade-in required.
Buy at Samsung

The Galaxy S26+ is now available for up to $480 off

$619 99
$1099 99
$480 off (44%)
The Galaxy S26+ is here, bringing improved software and a more powerful processor. The device can now be yours for up to $480 off with eligible device trade-ins. Users also get 15% off the Buds 4 series with their purchase. The official store gives you a $150 credit for add-ons without trade-ins.
Buy at Samsung

Galaxy S26 is now available for up to $380 off

$519 99
$899 99
$380 off (42%)
The Galaxy S26 is currently available at the Samsung Store with an exciting trade-in discount. Right now, you can buy the model with a $380 maximum price cut. Samsung also gives you 15% off the Galaxy Buds 4 or the Buds 4 Pro with your smartphone purchase.
Buy at Samsung


Google News Follow
Follow us on Google News

Recommended For You

COMMENTS (1)
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless