Samsung Hikes S26 Prices Up to $200 on AI-Fueled Memory Costs

Samsung increased US prices across its Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup effective October 1. [3, 7] Most models—the S26, S26+, and standard S26 Ultra—rose by $100. [2, 4] The base Galaxy S26 now starts at $999.99. [2, 4]

The top-tier 1TB Galaxy S26 Ultra rose by $200. [4, 7] Its new price is $1,999.99. [4, 7]

The increases are attributed to a sharp rise in memory component costs, driven by strong demand from the AI industry. [3, 5, 6] Higher component costs have pressured the profitability of Samsung's mobile division, which has struggled with eroding margins. [1, 6] The move follows similar Samsung price increases in other global markets and a recent price adjustment by competitor Apple. [1, 5]