A potential glimpse of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26+ has surfaced in an unexpected place: a Craigslist listing. Images circulating online appear to show a working prototype of the device, offering the first real-world look at the phone ahead of its official unveiling on .
The listing, spotted by X user @Kakooli98 (via @Jay_z5), advertised the device for a hefty $1,650. While significantly above the expected retail price, the photos provide a tangible look at a phone that, until now, existed only in renders and speculation. Both PhoneArena and Android Headlines reported on the listing and accompanying images.
Camera Pill and Familiar Design
The leaked images confirm a design element that has been widely rumored: a “camera pill” housing for the rear cameras. This marks a departure from the individual lens rings seen on previous Galaxy S models. The overall hardware design appears remarkably similar to the current Galaxy S25+, suggesting a more iterative update rather than a radical redesign.
The prototype also displays the official Galaxy S26 series wallpaper, further indicating its authenticity. However, it’s important to note that this is likely an engineering sample and not a final retail unit.
“Privacy Display” and AI-Driven Features
Beyond the physical design, the leak reconfirms the presence of a “Privacy Display” feature. This technology, dubbed “Flex Magic Pixel” OLED, aims to enhance user privacy by dimming the screen when viewed from an angle. This prevents shoulder surfing – where someone attempts to view the screen content from the side – without impacting the viewing experience for the person directly in front of the device.
Samsung is banking on features like this to entice users to upgrade. While the hardware may not represent a dramatic shift, the company is focusing on software and display innovations to differentiate the S26 series.
Production Prototype and Potential Risks
Experts believe the device is an internal testing prototype, given the timing of the leak and the nature of the listing. The appearance of a prototype on Craigslist raises questions about how the device ended up in the hands of a private seller. It also carries significant risks for potential buyers, as purchasing unreleased hardware from an unknown source could easily be a scam.
Techeblog.com noted the seller initially claimed it was a Galaxy S26 Ultra, but closer inspection of the camera layout suggests it is, in fact, the Plus model.
Galaxy S26 Plus: A Minor Upgrade?
Reports suggest the Galaxy S26 Plus may see only incremental changes compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Plus. This is reflected in the familiar design seen in the leaked images. PhoneArena reports that specs and design are remaining mostly unchanged. This has led to some speculation about the appeal of the Plus model, with reports indicating Samsung is allocating only 14 percent of production volume to it – the lowest share of the S26 lineup.
The Galaxy S26 Plus is expected to start around $1,000, with a potential price increase of $70. However, it will undoubtedly remain significantly cheaper than the $1,650 asking price on Craigslist.
Reserving the Future
Despite the leak, Samsung is actively preparing for the official launch. Reservations for the Galaxy S26 series are now open, offering potential buyers a $30 Samsung credit, a chance to win a $5,000 sweepstake, and pre-order savings of up to $900. The February 25th Unpacked event promises to reveal the full details of the Galaxy S26 series, including the standard S26, the S26 Plus, and the flagship S26 Ultra.
