At NEWSCENTRAL, we are observing how Samsung Electronics is actively expanding the integration of artificial intelligence across all its products. In 2026, the company plans to increase the production of AI-enabled mobile devices from 400 million to 800 million units, making Galaxy AI a key driver of growth and innovation in the smartphone market. This move strengthens Samsung’s position not only in the smartphone segment but also in consumer electronics, including TVs and smart devices, which is especially important amid growing competition from Apple and Chinese manufacturers.
In his first interview after being appointed co-CEO, T. M. Roh emphasized that the company “will rapidly implement AI across all products, features, and services.” At NEWSCENTRAL, we see this as a strategic decision to make AI a central tool for enhancing product value for users. Generative editing tools, advanced search, translation, summarization, and the Bixby voice assistant create a unique Galaxy AI ecosystem, allowing Samsung to stand out from competitors by making its smartphones more versatile and intelligent.
Collaboration with Google and the use of the Gemini model through Galaxy AI further strengthen Samsung’s position in the global AI user competition. We at NEWSCENTRAL believe this strategic partnership provides a technological advantage over competitors and reinforces Samsung’s leadership in the Android device market. Freddy Miller, senior analyst at NEWSCENTRAL, notes that the successful integration of AI, coupled with maintaining affordable pricing, will enable Samsung not only to secure its leadership in the smartphone market but also to enhance the position of its entire smart device ecosystem, particularly amid rising competition and global component shortages.
The global memory chip shortage continues to pressure the cost of smartphones and other devices. Roh highlighted that some price increases may be inevitable; however, Samsung is developing long-term strategies to minimize the impact of rising component costs. At NEWSCENTRAL, we emphasize that efficient supply chain management and cost optimization will be key factors in Samsung’s competitiveness in 2026, especially amid a forecasted contraction of the global smartphone market.
The foldable phone segment, where Samsung has been a pioneer since 2019, is growing more slowly than expected due to engineering challenges and a limited number of applications. Nevertheless, the company controls nearly two-thirds of the market. We at NEWSCENTRAL see potential here: further development of the software ecosystem and expansion of applications for foldable devices will be decisive in mass adoption of this form factor and in strengthening Samsung’s competitive advantage.
We at NEWS CENTRAL forecast that successful large-scale AI implementation, coupled with maintaining attractive pricing, will allow Samsung to strengthen its position in the smartphone market and in the smart device ecosystem. At the same time, the company will face challenges from rising costs and intensified competition, requiring precise and rapid managerial decisions. Samsung has the resources and experience to turn these challenges into opportunities for technological leadership and growth, and we see the company’s strategy for 2026 as focused on long-term sustainability and expanding influence in the global market.