Samsung Raised Galaxy S26 Prices by About $100. Reports Point to Memory Chip Costs

Samsung has raised prices on most Galaxy S26 models in several markets. Most reports date the change to October 1. In the US, the rise is about $100 on most models, and the 1TB Galaxy S26 Ultra went up by $200. The reason reports give is memory chips, which have become far more expensive this year.

Where the increases were reported

The increases have been reported in Canada, Europe, the UK and the US, after earlier rises in India and South Korea. In South Korea, Seoul Economic Daily put the increase on the base model at about 150,000 won, which is roughly $105.

The US numbers

Investing.com reports a $100 rise across most of the US lineup, with the 1TB Ultra up $200 to $2,000. Reports differ on the new starting price of the base model, so check Samsung’s US store for the current figure before you compare deals.

Why memory gets the blame

Seoul Economic Daily reports that DRAM costs have roughly doubled since March. Counterpoint Research estimates that memory now makes up 43 percent of the production cost of premium phones, up from 27 percent. Reports also say AI companies are buying large amounts of the same memory chips that go into phones.

What Samsung has said

In the reports we reviewed, Samsung has not explained the US increase in detail. The memory explanation therefore rests on industry estimates, not on a statement from Samsung.

What to expect next

TrendForce, a market research firm, expects memory costs to ease only around 2028. If that is right, higher phone prices may last well beyond this year. Check the current price in your market before you buy, because the change differs from country to country.

How this story will change

This story covers price changes reported from October. We will update it if Samsung confirms the reasons behind the increases or changes prices again.