Samsung Adds Galaxy S26 to Re-Newed Program Amid Anticipated Price Hikes
Samsung adds the Galaxy S26 series to its Re-Newed program with $200 discounts, even as reports indicate upcoming price hikes driven by global RAM costs.
Samsung has introduced the Galaxy S26 series to its Re-Newed program on its official website, offering refurbished devices that have undergone comprehensive factory servicing. The devices feature brand-new original batteries, official replacement parts, and a full warranty, with a significant discount of about $200 compared to brand-new models in original packaging.
Price Reductions on Flagship Models
Under the program, the base Galaxy S26 starts at $759 instead of $899, the S26 Plus is priced at $929 instead of $1,099, and the high-end Galaxy S26 Ultra is available for just $1,099 compared to $1,299. This makes the Ultra model one of the most attractive deals in the lineup. The stock includes all series colors, alongside older models such as the S23 series and previous foldable devices offered at rock-bottom prices.
However, reports from South Korean media reveal that Samsung is preparing for a sharp price hike across the entire Galaxy S26 lineup, amounting to about 150,000 won (approximately $100 to $110 per device). According to reports, mobile carriers in Korea have already been notified of the price update, which will push the base S26 price to around $1,040, while the Ultra model will approach the $1,450 mark for the 256GB version.
RAM Crisis and Apple Comparison
"While it is true that we are internally reviewing price adjustments due to the burden of component costs, at this stage nothing has been finalized," Samsung stated in response to the reports.
The primary reason for the price wave stems from the global RAM memory component crisis and surging application processor costs, which weigh heavily on mobile division profit margins. This is compounded by Apple's recent policy, which raised iPhone 18 Pro prices by $100 and set a multi-thousand-dollar price tag for its foldable model. Apple's moves narrowed the price gap between the brands and provided Samsung with marketing legitimacy to raise its prices to protect profitability. For consumers, the launch of the renewed program serves as a critical window of opportunity to save hundreds of dollars just before price hikes spread globally.
