Leak: Samsung Galaxy S26 batteries include a surprising downgrade
Mashable
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup has been revealed through leaked EU battery labels, revealing a notable downgrade in battery health compared to its predecessor. The new devices, including the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra, each feature 1,200 charge cycles, meaning their batteries will drop to 80% health after reaching this limit. This is a significant decrease from the Galaxy S25 series, which offered 2,000 charge cycles, allowing for longer-term battery durability.
Despite the reduced charge cycle rating, there are some positive developments in battery efficiency. According to EU-standardized tests, the Samsung Galaxy S26 battery lasted an impressive 51 hours, marking a 43% improvement over the Galaxy S25's 37-hour performance. The S26+ and S26 Ultra also saw enhanced longevity, lasting 55 hours each, up from 43.5 hours and nearly 45 hours for their respective predecessors.
While the battery health downgrade may disappoint some users who prioritize long-term durability, the improved energy efficiency suggests that Samsung is focusing on optimizing power usage rather than simply extending charge cycles. This trade-off could appeal to those who value extended phone life during single charges over long-term battery longevity. As Samsung continues to innovate in areas like AI and hardware performance, consumers will need to weigh these factors when deciding whether the Galaxy S26 lineup meets their needs.
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/24/2026