Samsung seems to be preparing for a bold shift in its flagship Galaxy S series strategy. Fresh reports suggest that the company may replace the traditional Plus model with a new Galaxy S26 Edge variant, and it’s not just the name that’s changing. The rumored Edge model is expected to debut with a significant hardware leap, featuring a powerful 50-megapixel ultrawide camera. If this holds true, it would be a massive upgrade from the 12-megapixel sensors seen on previous Galaxy S Plus models, including the current Galaxy S25+.
According to details shared by German publication WinFuture, Samsung has internally codenamed its next-generation devices as NPA1, NPA2, and NPA3. The NPA acronym reportedly stands for Next Paradigm, indicating a fresh design and feature approach across the S26 lineup. For reference, the Galaxy S25 series carried the PA1, PA2, and PA3 tags, with PA standing for Paradigm. This change in naming convention might seem small, but it reflects a broader transition in how Samsung wants to position its premium smartphones for 2026 and beyond.
The Galaxy S26 Edge, likely referred to internally as NPA2, could either sit alongside or outright replace the Galaxy S26+. This speculation is strengthened by ongoing rumors that Samsung plans to streamline its flagship lineup to better compete with other global players.
What really sets the upcoming model apart, however, is its rumored camera setup. The 50-megapixel ultrawide sensor would dramatically enhance the range and detail of wide-angle photography, potentially bringing flagship-grade quality to more than just the primary lens. For comparison, both the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy S25 Ultra came with 12-megapixel ultrawide cameras. This new sensor would offer more clarity, better low-light performance, and richer detail, particularly for landscape and group shots.
This upgrade doesn’t stop with the Edge variant. The top-end Galaxy S26 Ultra is also rumored to receive improvements across its camera array. Sources claim it could feature a 1/1.1-inch Sony CMOS 200-megapixel sensor, slightly larger than the 1/1.3-inch sensor found on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Additionally, the Ultra variant may include a 50-megapixel telephoto lens offering up to 5x optical zoom, allowing for clearer, lossless zoom without compromising image quality.
These camera enhancements are part of a larger effort by Samsung to redefine its smartphone photography credentials. With smartphone cameras becoming a key factor for users upgrading their devices, Samsung appears to be doubling down on sensors, optics, and AI-powered imaging tools to stay ahead in the flagship race.
Another point of interest is Samsung’s evolving design language. While no official renders have been released yet, the shift from Plus to Edge could indicate a return to curved displays or a new form factor optimized for larger-screen experiences without increasing the overall footprint of the device. This could also coincide with Samsung’s focus on integrating AI tools and ecosystem-wide software upgrades in 2026.
The Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch in early 2026, likely in February or March, in line with Samsung’s usual release schedule. As we get closer to the official announcement, more details are likely to emerge through certifications, benchmarks, and early retail listings.
If the rumored upgrades come to fruition, especially the switch to a 50-megapixel ultrawide sensor and the strategic shift to an Edge-branded model, the Galaxy S26 lineup could mark a turning point for Samsung’s premium phone strategy.
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