Hot
Samsung S26 vs iPhone 18: Apple to ‘Kill’ the Base Model? 2026 Smartphone War Begins
The 2026 smartphone showdown is heating up fast. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series launches first in February/March, while Apple’s iPhone 18 lineup faces a massive twist: rumors claim the standard base iPhone 18 gets delayed or “killed” for 2026, with only Pro models and a foldable hitting shelves in September.
This strategic shift could reshape the flagship market. Samsung gets an early edge with full lineup availability, while Apple focuses on premium devices to push buyers toward higher-priced options.
Samsung Galaxy S26: Launch and Key Leaks
Samsung plans its Unpacked event for February 25, 2026, with sales starting March 11. The lineup sticks to Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra—no Edge or Pro branding this time.
Leaked specs point to incremental upgrades: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (or Exynos 2600 in some regions), up to 16GB RAM, familiar camera setup (50MP main on base/Plus, improved on Ultra), and possible better heat management with aluminum frames instead of titanium on Ultra.
The S26 series aims to compete on value and AI features, with no major camera leaps rumored for base models.
Apple’s iPhone 18 Shake-Up: Base Model Delayed to 2027?
Multiple reports confirm Apple plans to skip the standard iPhone 18 in 2026. Instead, expect iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the first foldable iPhone in September 2026.
The base iPhone 18 shifts to spring 2027, launching alongside iPhone 18e and possibly Air updates. This breaks Apple’s decade-long tradition of full-lineup fall launches.
Reasons include lineup expansion (foldable debut, more models overall) and strategy to boost Pro sales—base models recently gained features like 120Hz displays, cannibalizing premium demand.
Pro models get big upgrades: 2nm A20 chip, 12GB RAM, under-display Face ID (left-aligned camera), variable-aperture cameras, LTPO+ OLED, and new colors.
(Responsive / Native Ad)
This “kills” the base model for 2026, leaving iPhone 17 as the latest standard option for over 18 months.
Head-to-Head: Early 2026 Battle Lines
Samsung strikes first with accessible flagships. Apple counters with premium power and foldable innovation.
- Launch timing: S26 (Feb/March) vs iPhone 18 Pro/Fold (Sept)
- Base model: Full S26 lineup vs delayed/no iPhone 18
- Upgrades: Samsung incremental vs Apple leap (2nm chip, under-display tech)
- Strategy: Samsung value play vs Apple premium push
Markets watch closely—Samsung could gain share early, but Apple’s Pro/foldable combo might dominate premium segment.
Samsung Galaxy S26 vs Apple iPhone 18 Pro: The 2026 Smartphone War – Leaks, Price, and Specs Compared
— Sammy Fans (@thesammyfans) January 19, 2026
iPhone 18 Pro z ukrytym pod wyświetlaczem Face ID, kamerą po lewej stronie i nowym kolorem
— dailyweb (@DailyWebPL) January 20, 2026
What This Means for Buyers
If you’re eyeing a base flagship, grab Samsung S26 soon—Apple’s equivalent waits until 2027. Premium hunters wait for Apple’s September event for cutting-edge tech.
This war highlights industry shifts: staggered launches, foldables, and premium focus. 2026 could see Samsung lead volume early, Apple dominate high-end.
The battle is on—stay tuned for more leaks as Unpacked and Apple’s fall event approach.
Stay tuned for more news on HOTBUZZ.IN
