Galaxy S26: Is Samsung Inspired by the iPhone 17 or Is It Just Coincidence?
With only a few months until its launch, the Galaxy S26 is already sparking discussions. Amid circulating renders and design leaks, several observers have noted striking similarities with the iPhone 17.
But is this a genuine imitation or simply a natural convergence of trends? Let’s take a closer look.
When the Galaxy S26 Resembles the iPhone 17
Rumors are increasing, and some appear to be credible: according to multiple sources, Samsung is making two major changes in its next smartphone generation, which oddly echo Apple’s design philosophy.
Softer Edges
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is reportedly moving further away from the angular style of its predecessors to adopt smoother, rounder lines, continuing the design of the S25 Ultra. This choice is already dividing fans: some appreciate the improved ergonomics, while others miss the iconic “square” identity of the Ultra line.
A Camera Module Inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro
Another notable change involves the Galaxy S26 Edge, which is set to adopt a prominent rectangular camera module, reminiscent of the iPhone 17 Pro.
A more substantial design, to be sure, but this seems to stem from a new internal arrangement of the sensors—aimed at improving chassis slimness and optical quality, rather than copying Apple.
The Mystery of the “Cosmic Orange” Galaxy
A recently viral photo depicted a Galaxy S26 Ultra in an orange hue similar to the “Cosmic Orange” of the iPhone 17 Pro, reigniting the controversy—until it was revealed that the image was fake.
The well-known leaker Ice Universe, who was behind the image, confirmed on Weibo that it was an AI-generated fake: the color had been digitally altered.
Is this bad news for fans of this warm shade? Not entirely: Samsung is reportedly planning a version of the Galaxy S26 Ultra in a shade of orange, but closer to the Orange of the Galaxy S24 Ultra or the Red of the Galaxy S23 Ultra, rather than the copper tone of Apple.
Is Samsung Really Copying Apple?
At first glance, the similarities are tempting to highlight. However, in reality, it would be an exaggeration to label this as copying. The rounded edges represent a natural evolution of the design initiated with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, not imitation. As for the camera module, it primarily reflects a global trend toward optimizing internal space to accommodate larger sensors.
Additionally, regarding the orange color, it’s important to remember that color trends often follow common cycles within the industry: currently, there’s a return of warm tones and matte finishes.
In summary: Samsung is not copying Apple; it is aligning with prevailing trends while continuing its own vision of design and performance.
When Design Boundaries Blur
For the past decade, Apple and Samsung have jointly set the standards for high-end smartphones. Each generation brings its own share of aesthetic and technological innovations, which ultimately influence the entire market—including competitors like Xiaomi, Honor, or Vivo.
Thus, what some perceive as copying is often just the translation of a universal visual language, where brand boundaries fade in favor of efficiency and user comfort.
Much like fashion, mobile design follows cycles: today it’s orange, tomorrow it might be sage green, and in two years, perhaps a return to brushed titanium.
Awaiting the Verdict
The Galaxy S26 is set to be unveiled in early 2026, alongside the new Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips. With its revamped design, top-tier performance, and new color options, it promises to be as divisive as it is appealing.
But one thing is certain: Apple and Samsung will continue, each in their own way, to respond, inspire, and challenge each other—for the delight of tech enthusiasts.
