Samsung announced the Galaxy S26 FE, replacing the Galaxy S25 FE with a key upgrade: the newer Exynos 2500 chipset. Unlike previous models, the S26 FE uses the Exynos 2500 globally without any Snapdragon variant split. Samsung claims the Exynos 2500 delivers 15% higher big-core CPU performance and 39% better on-device AI performance than the Exynos 2400 found in the S25 FE. The Xclipse 950 GPU also offers improved graphics performance. The upgrade is significant since the S26 FE otherwise mirrors the S25 FE design, now at a higher launch price. The 128GB model starts at €699 or £699, while the 256GB variant costs £799.

The S25 FE, by comparison, remains available at lower prices, with the 128GB version listed around €479.99 or £349.88 and the 256GB model at €512.00 or £414.49.

Samsung's decision to standardize on the Exynos 2500 worldwide simplifies production and ensures consistent performance across all markets.

The Galaxy S26 FE represents a modest but meaningful refresh focused primarily on processing power.