Samsung appears poised to upend the typical smartphone release order in 2026, potentially launching its highly anticipated Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57 models before the flagship Galaxy S26 series. This move signals a shift in strategy for the South Korean tech giant, prioritizing momentum in the mid-range market even as its premium offerings face a slight delay.
The Galaxy S26 series, while still expected to arrive in , is facing a minor scheduling adjustment. However, Samsung doesn’t appear concerned, actively bolstering its existing product lines. The forthcoming Galaxy A37 and A57 represent a significant push in the mid-range segment, aiming to capture market share and maintain sales velocity during the wait for the S26.
Details surrounding the A37 and A57 have been steadily emerging, with Samsung itself hinting at the A57’s imminent arrival through its Korean community forums. This unusual level of pre-launch transparency suggests a deliberate strategy to build anticipation. The devices have also reportedly undergone Bluetooth SIG certification, a standard procedure indicating they are nearing release.
The Galaxy A57 is garnering more attention in terms of leaked specifications. It’s expected to feature a 6.6-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a significant upgrade for the A-series. Powering the device will be Samsung’s Exynos 1680 chipset, paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM. The camera system is also slated for improvements, adopting a pill-shaped module similar to designs seen on other recent Samsung devices. The A37, while less detailed in leaks, is confirmed to utilize the Samsung Exynos 1480 processor, representing a substantial performance boost over previous Qualcomm-powered A-series models.
This strategic timing allows Samsung to heat up the market before the Unpacked event in San Francisco, where the Galaxy S26 series will be formally unveiled. The A37 and A57 are expected to be launched with a lower profile, directly through Samsung’s online stores, and available for shipping within a couple of weeks of the announcement – potentially between and .
The decision to prioritize the A-series launch is likely a response to increasing competition from Chinese smartphone manufacturers. These companies are aggressively targeting the mid-range market with compelling specifications at competitive prices. By releasing the A37 and A57 early, Samsung aims to counter this pressure and maintain its position as a leading smartphone vendor.
The Galaxy A37 is positioned as a device focused on delivering a streamlined One UI experience to a wider audience. While specific details are limited, the emphasis on the Exynos 1480 chipset and at least 8GB of RAM suggests a focus on performance and responsiveness. The A57, with its more detailed specifications, appears to be a more comprehensive upgrade, offering a refined display, a powerful processor, and an improved camera system.
The Bluetooth SIG certification for both devices further reinforces the timeline. This certification process is typically completed shortly before a product’s official release, indicating that Samsung is finalizing preparations for launch. The certifications confirm the devices are undergoing final testing to ensure compatibility with the latest Bluetooth standards.
The shift in release strategy also suggests Samsung is confident in its ability to manage inventory and supply chains effectively. Launching the A-series before the S26 allows the company to distribute production capacity and avoid potential bottlenecks that could delay the arrival of its flagship devices. It also provides an opportunity to gauge market demand for key features and technologies before finalizing the S26’s specifications.
While the delay of the Galaxy S26 series may raise some eyebrows, Samsung’s proactive approach with the A37 and A57 demonstrates a commitment to maintaining market momentum. By focusing on its mid-range offerings, the company is positioning itself to capitalize on consumer demand and compete effectively in a rapidly evolving smartphone landscape. The coming weeks will be crucial as Samsung prepares to unveil these new devices and set the stage for the launch of its next-generation flagship series.
