The year 2026 is going to be the year of amazing mobile phone launches. There are big brands coming out with new models with better AI features, foldable designs, and better cameras. In fact, next-level cameras! Leaks and rumours are already floating when it comes to the Best Upcoming Phones In 2026
We can see the new Galaxy Ultra, Pixel, Apple iPhone, and many options from other top brands. Foldable launches would be there as well in 2026. If you are on a budget and want to upgrade, there will be interesting mid-range launches as well. In this list, we are going to talk about the most-awaited phone launches based on trusted leaks and reports. The launch dates are not fixed, but they are close to the actual ones.
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Series
Launch: January Or February
Samsung is expected to start 2026 with its Galaxy S26 series. It may launch in January or February at the Galaxy Unpacked event. This new lineup will includeL
- Samsung Galaxy S26
- Samsung Galaxy S26+, and the top model,
- Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumoured to have a very powerful 200MP main camera. There can be a strong titanium frame and the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 processor. It can also be an Exynos version in some regions.
The phones may also have brighter displays up to 5,000 nits. You can expect better cooling systems to prevent heating. Samsung is also expected to add smarter AI features, like removing unwanted objects from videos in real time.
The starting price of the Galaxy S26 series in India is expected to be around Rs. 80,000.
Apple iPhone 18
Launch: September 2026
Apple is expected to launch the Apple iPhone 18 series in September 2026. This new lineup will have advance Apple Intelligence and smart features. We can see the A20 Pro Chip built with 3nm process. There are leaks that there will be an Air model as well in the lineup.
People are also talking about foldable iPhone, but that’s still not expected much if you go with official leaks.
The cameras are also expected to improve. All models may get a 48MP ultrawide camera and support advanced video recording like 8K at 60fps. The phones will run on iOS 27. It may have a smarter Siri and better privacy features.
The starting price of the iPhone 18 series in India is expected to be around Rs. 1,20,000.
Google Pixel 11 Series
Launch: October 2026
Google is expected to launch the Google Pixel 11 series in October 2026. This series may include the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, and Pixel 11 XL. This is clearly one of the best upcoming phones in 2026.
The Pixel 11 phones are rumoured to use the new Tensor G6 chip. It will bring better on-device AI with Gemini 2.0. This means smarter features, smoother performance, and helpful tools. You won’t be needing the internet all the time.
The software is expected to be clean and easy to use. Camera features like Night Sight and Video Boost may get even better. This will make photos and videos look amazing. Google may also improve the modem for faster and more stable 5G.
The starting price in India is expected to be around Rs. 70,000.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 & Z Flip 8
Launch: July 2025
Samsung is expected to improve its foldable phones in 2026. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 may have a wider outer screen. It will be like a small tablet with a thinner hinge. It could also get a bigger battery of more than 5,000mAh and support the S Pen without needing a slot. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 will likely focus on a larger cover screen for better use when the phone is folded. Both phones are expected to feature powerful Snapdragon processors and AI-powered multitasking. The Fold 8 may cost more than Rs. 1,50,000.
Xiaomi 16 Series & 16 Ultra
Launch: Early 2026
Xiaomi is rumoured to launch the 16 series with a strong focus on the camera. The Xiaomi 16 Ultra may have a huge 7,500mAh battery and a 200MP camera tuned with Leica. The phone is expected to have slim borders, rounded corners, and AI effects for better photos.
The price is going to be around Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 80,000.
Also Read: OnePlus 15 Vs iPhone 17: Which One Should You Choose?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which are the best upcoming smartphones in 2026?
Some of the most awaited smartphones in 2026 include the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, Apple iPhone 18 series, Google Pixel 11 series, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 & Z Flip 8, and the Xiaomi 16 series.
When will the Samsung Galaxy S26 series launch?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is expected to launch in January or February 2026 during the Galaxy Unpacked event.
What is the expected price of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series in India?
The starting price of the Galaxy S26 series in India is expected to be around Rs. 80,000.
When will Apple launch the iPhone 18 series?
Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 series in September 2026.
Is Apple launching a foldable iPhone in 2026?
There are rumours about a foldable iPhone. Based on current leaks, it is not expected to launch in 2026.
What is the expected price of the iPhone 18 in India?
The iPhone 18 series is expected to start at around Rs. 1,20,000 in India.
When will the Google Pixel 11 series be launched?
Google is likely to launch the Pixel 11 series in October 2026.
What will be the starting price of the Pixel 11 in India?
The Pixel 11 series is expected to start at around Rs. 70,000 in India.
How much will the Galaxy Z Fold 8 cost?
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to be priced above Rs. 1,50,000 in India.
What will be the price range of the Xiaomi 16 series?
The Xiaomi 16 series is expected to be priced between Rs. 60,000 and Rs. 80,000.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the list of Best Upcoming Phones In 2026 is really interesting. If you have been wanting to upgrade to a new phone, you can definitely look for these options. They are smart, AI-powered, capable of multitasking, and offer many benefits. Let me know which is your favourite in the comments section below. I would love to hear you out.
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