February 2026 is shaping up to be an eventful period for smartphone enthusiasts, as leading brands prepare to introduce new devices across premium, mid-range, and budget categories. With launches expected from Samsung, Vivo, Poco, and Realme, buyers may want to wait before making their next purchase.

The coming month is quietly becoming one of those moments where holding off on an upgrade could pay off. From high-end flagships to value-driven phones with large batteries, several options are set to arrive, catering to a wide range of users.

Samsung Galaxy S26 series

Samsung is expected to lead the wave with its Galaxy S26 lineup, which is likely to debut at a Galaxy Unpacked event later in February. Sitting at the top, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is tipped to retain Samsung’s signature Ultra design philosophy, with refinements focused on daily usability. Reports suggest a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1 to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. A newly rumored privacy viewing mode could make on-screen content less visible from side angles, offering added discretion for users in public settings.

Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with storage options ranging from 256GB up to 1TB. Photography remains a highlight, with leaks indicating a 200MP primary sensor, complemented by a 50MP ultra-wide camera, a 50MP 5x periscope lens, and a 10MP 3x telephoto shooter. Samsung may continue with a 5,000mAh battery, but faster 60W charging could significantly reduce charging time. The series is expected to be unveiled around February 25, with availability beginning in March.

The standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ are likely to follow Samsung’s familiar design language while refining key elements. The Galaxy S26 is expected to feature a 6.3-inch Full HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display and a compact form factor, weighing close to 137g. Camera hardware may include a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto camera, along with a 12MP front camera. Depending on the region, the phone could run on either the Exynos 2600 or Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, paired with Android 16-based One UI 8.5 and a 4,300mAh battery.

The Galaxy S26+ is expected to offer similar internals but on a larger scale, featuring a 6.7-inch Quad HD+ AMOLED display, a heavier body around 190g, and a bigger 4,900mAh battery. Apart from these differences, it is likely to share the same processor and camera setup as the standard model, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a larger screen without moving to the Ultra variant.

Vivo V70 series

Vivo is also preparing to expand its V-series lineup with the launch of the V70 series in India. Alongside the regular Vivo V70, the company is expected to introduce a new V70 Elite model. Official teasers have already hinted at a strong emphasis on design and camera performance, areas where the V-series has consistently delivered.

The V70 Elite is rumored to be powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, while the standard V70 could use the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4. Camera specifications are expected to include Zeiss-supported optics, with a triple rear setup featuring a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP 3x telephoto camera. Vivo is also likely to bring back its AI-driven camera features, some of which are tailored specifically for Indian users. Design leaks point towards a flatter frame and a square camera module. A large 6,500mAh battery combined with 90W fast charging could make the V70 series appealing to users seeking both aesthetics and long battery life.

Poco X8 series

Poco appears set to focus heavily on battery performance with its upcoming X8 series. The Poco X8 Pro and X8 Pro Max are expected to arrive soon, with the Pro model already listed on India’s BIS certification platform. According to leaks, the Poco X8 Pro may house a 6,500mAh battery, while the Pro Max could stand out with a massive 8,500mAh unit. Both devices are said to support 100W fast charging.

In terms of specifications, the Poco X8 Pro is expected to feature a 6.59-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and run on the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 chipset. The Pro Max variant could offer a larger 6.83-inch AMOLED screen and a more powerful Dimensity 9500s processor. Camera setups on both models are expected to remain practical, featuring a 50MP primary camera with optical image stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 20MP front-facing camera.

Realme 16

Completing the list of anticipated launches is the Realme 16. The smartphone has already launched in Vietnam and has now surfaced on India’s BIS database, indicating an imminent India release. Positioned below the Realme 16 Pro and Pro+ variants, the device targets users looking for a stylish smartphone without a high price tag.

Design is a major highlight of the Realme 16. The phone introduces a new Air Design, featuring a slim horizontal camera strip inspired by Apple’s layout, along with a small Selfie Mirror that helps users frame photos using the rear camera. The back panel also shifts colors under different lighting conditions. On the specification front, the Realme 16 is expected to include a 6.57-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 50MP rear camera, an uncommon 50MP selfie camera, and a large 7,000mAh battery with 60W fast charging. Realme is also emphasizing durability, with multiple dust and water resistance certifications.