Galaxy S26: Samsung avoids price hikes thanks to in-house production
While analysts forecast an imminent increase in smartphone prices, Samsung appears poised to defy this trend. The South Korean manufacturer is leveraging its vertical integration to mitigate rising costs—an advantage that few competitors can claim.
Samsung: The advantage of in-house production
Samsung does not merely assemble smartphones; it also manufactures its own memory components and processors. Recently, its memory division warned several clients about a forthcoming 30% rise in DRAM prices during the last quarter, coinciding with the Galaxy S26 series’ production launch.
However, Samsung utilizes internal components, including the new Exynos 2600 processor, which may help keep costs down. According to South Korean media outlet Newdaily, unlike Vivo, OPPO, Realme, or Xiaomi—who are forced to hike their prices due to soaring component costs—Samsung will not face this pressure in the short term.
“Samsung can maintain its prices due to its integrated structure and secure inventory,” the source clarified.
Yet, long-term price increases are inevitable
Another local publication, Hankyung, reports that Samsung is already considering a price hike for its upcoming models due to ongoing production cost increases. Currently, the success of the Galaxy S25 hinges on providing more without raising prices.
The Galaxy S26 series, expected in March 2026 after a slight delay tied to the “Plus” model, will likely introduce the Exynos 2600 processor in most markets, excluding North America, China, and Japan.
This technical choice is aimed at optimizing performance while reducing dependency on Qualcomm, thereby lowering production costs.
A fragile balance for Samsung
If the company manages to stabilize the prices of the Galaxy S26, it could gain a competitive edge over its Chinese counterparts, who are already compelled to increase their prices. However, if memory prices continue to rise, the Galaxy S26 might be the last to navigate the storm unscathed.
One thing is certain: if Samsung does raise its prices, selling the Galaxy S26 could become more challenging—especially since it currently promises no major innovations.
Samsung is betting on price stability—an astute strategy in a pressured market. But if component costs keep climbing, even the Korean giant may find itself compelled to adjust its prices soon.
