Sporadic leaks claim the Galaxy S26 family could be spared this fate, but until Samsung announces it on stage, nothing is certain.
What's more, no Galaxy S26 price hikes would be a miracle, since Xiaomi President Lu Weibing has once again issued a warning about higher gadget prices in 2026.
But why?
Xiaomi 15T for reference. | Image by PhoneArena
As Reuters reports, Xiaomi's predictions are based on the extra-high prices of memory chips right now – and, thanks to AI and data centers, the trend will continue in the near future.
For example, prices for Samsung's DDR5 memory modules have jumped sharply recently. The 32 GB modules rose from $149 in September to $239 in November, while 16 GB and 128 GB chips went up around 50%, and other sizes increased by more than 30%.
I expect pressure to be much heavier next year than this year. Overall, consumers are likely to see a sizable rise in product retail prices. Some of the pressure may have to be addressed through price hikes, but price increases alone won't be enough to digest it.
– Xiaomi President Lu Weibing on an earnings conference call on Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Last month, Lu said that rising memory chip prices had pushed up smartphone costs, responding to some buyers who were unhappy with the price of Xiaomi's new Redmi K90 (a bit pricier than K80).
In the third quarter, Xiaomi shipped 43.3 million phones worldwide, a slight 0.5% increase from a year earlier, keeping it in third place globally with a 13.6% market share, according to its latest financial report referencing Omdia.
Are price hikes justified?
Yes.
0%
Only if they're in the range of $30-$50, not more.
50%
No, phone prices are artificially inflated.
50%
Is now a good time to get a new phone?
For Android users, there's a wide range of options right now, from budget-friendly phones to mid-range and flagship devices.
If your current phone is struggling, the current Black Friday deals make a solid case for upgrading now rather than waiting for 2026. Prices might not rise across the board next year, but why take the chance?
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If you already have a new phone, there's no need to rush an upgrade. Unless you're looking for something very specific, 2026 upgrades probably won't offer anything essential in terms of day-to-day performance.
iPhone users have a strong option in the iPhone 17 Pro this year, though it's worth noting that the device is prone to scratches and dents, so a good case is highly recommended.
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Sebastian, a veteran of a tech writer with over 15 years of experience in media and marketing, blends his lifelong fascination with writing and technology to provide valuable insights into the realm of mobile devices. Embracing the evolution from PCs to smartphones, he harbors a special appreciation for the Google Pixel line due to their superior camera capabilities. Known for his engaging storytelling style, sprinkled with rich literary and film references, Sebastian critically explores the impact of technology on society, while also perpetually seeking out the next great tech deal, making him a distinct and relatable voice in the tech world.
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