Core Viewpoint - Samsung Electronics has launched its Galaxy S26 smartphones with increased prices in key markets, responding to rising memory chip costs that are impacting profit margins [1] Group 1: Product Launch and Pricing - The base Galaxy S26 is priced at $899 in the United States, reflecting a 4.7% increase from the previous model, while the S26 Plus is priced at $1,099, up 10% [1] - In South Korea, the base model price has been raised by 8.6% [1] - The S26 Ultra's price remains unchanged [1] Group 2: Market Context and Challenges - Samsung's smartphone leadership was lost to Apple last year, attributed to strong iPhone demand in China and India [1] - The company has warned of a worsening chip shortage driven by the AI boom, which is increasing memory demand and affecting its smartphone and display units [1] - A global push by companies like Meta, Google, and Microsoft for AI infrastructure is absorbing much of the memory supply, leading to higher prices as chipmakers focus on higher-margin data center components [1] Group 3: Technological Features and Innovations - The Galaxy S26 models will feature in-house Exynos processors, a shift from Qualcomm's Snapdragon chips used in the S25, which may enhance Samsung's chip design business and mobile margins [1] - The S26 Ultra includes what Samsung claims is the industry's first built-in mobile privacy display, which limits side viewing angles [1] Group 4: Market Predictions - Market tracker TrendForce anticipates conventional DRAM contract prices to surge by 90% to 95% in the January to March period of this year compared to the last quarter of 2025 [1] - Apple has indicated expectations of a sharp increase in memory chip prices but has not confirmed whether it will raise its product prices in response [1]
Samsung unveils Galaxy S26; lifts prices in key markets amid chip price surge