Samsung's August Galaxy Event: What to Expect from the S26 FE and Tab S12 Series

It's that exciting time of year again! With Samsung's big August Galaxy Event just around the corner, specifically slated for Thursday, August 27, 2026, the tech world is abuzz with anticipation. And frankly, the rumor mill has been working overtime, giving us a pretty clear picture of what to expect, particularly concerning the next 'Fan Edition' smartphone, the Galaxy S26 FE, and a refreshed lineup of their high-end tablets, the Galaxy Tab S12 series. Let's peel back the layers and see what's likely headed our way.

First up, the phone everyone's been waiting for: the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE. If the leaks are to be believed, and they often are, this device is shaping up to be a compelling offering. Perhaps the most significant internal upgrade is the shift to the new Exynos 2500 processor. This isn't just a minor bump; it's a genuine step forward for the FE series, as confirmed by insights from the Google Play Console and some tantalizing early Geekbench scores. For a taste of its potential, we can look to the Galaxy Z Flip7, which reportedly uses the same chip – currently, it's the only other Exynos 2500-powered phone out there. So, we're talking about a proper performance uplift here, which is always welcome, isn't it?

When it comes to memory and storage, Samsung seems to be sticking to a familiar, and frankly, sensible choice. We're expecting 8GB of RAM, paired with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or even a spacious 512GB. Given the current market for memory, this consistency makes a lot of sense, and it's certainly more than enough for most users.

The display, too, retains its tried-and-true formula: a vibrant 6.7-inch OLED panel with a sharp 1080p+ resolution and a silky-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It’s the same excellent screen found on its predecessor, so no complaints there. Durability-wise, we're looking at an aluminum frame (likely that robust Armor Aluminum) and Gorilla Glass Victus+ safeguarding the display. The phone should also maintain its sleek 7.4mm thickness and robust IP68 rating, which means it’s ready for a splash or a dusty adventure, just like last year's model. And for those who love a bit of color, options like Blueberry, Graphite, and Pistachio sound rather appealing.

Battery life is always a hot topic, and the S26 FE is set to carry a solid 4,900mAh capacity. Interestingly, while the capacity remains the same, European certifications reveal a new cell rated for 1,200 charge cycles before its health dips below 80%. This is a curious detail, as previous FE models boasted 2,000 cycles. However, here’s the good news: thanks to that more efficient Exynos 2500 chip, the S26 FE is expected to deliver up to 50 hours on a single charge – a noticeable improvement over the approximately 42 hours from its predecessors. Charging remains zippy, with 45W wired and presumably 15W wireless capabilities. So, you'll be topped up in no time.

Moving onto the cameras, it sounds like an evolution rather than a revolution. We're talking minor changes to the hardware, but nothing that's likely to dramatically alter image quality. The setup includes a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide on the rear, complemented by a 12MP selfie camera up front. Where things get truly exciting, though, is with the new software features. Imagine 'Horizon Lock,' which automatically keeps your videos level, a fantastic addition from the S26 series. Or 'My FanCam,' an app that lets you control scene framing post-fact, even tracking a person in ultra-wide video – a neat trick inherited from the Galaxy Z8 foldables. Plus, 'Audio Eraser' promises to magically remove unwanted background sounds from your videos. These software smarts could really elevate your mobile videography game.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: pricing. The leaks suggest a bit of a pinch, especially for European buyers. The 8/128GB model is expected to be around €800, a €50 increase from the S25 FE. The 8/256GB jumps to €900 (a €90 increase), and the 8/512GB takes a significant leap to €1,100, which is €170 more than its predecessor. While we only have Euro prices right now, it's reasonable to expect similar increases in other markets like the US and UK. On the bright side, Samsung continues its impressive commitment to software support, offering 7 OS updates and 7 years of security patches – fantastic longevity for your investment.

But wait, there's more! Beyond the phone, Samsung's August event is also set to unveil the new Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Tab S12+. These slates are looking to offer substantial upgrades themselves. The Galaxy Tab S12+ is rumored to retain its expansive 12.4-inch screen, but the real highlight here is a massive processor upgrade to the Dimensity 9500 – that's two generations forward from the previous model, promising a serious performance boost. There are also murmurs of a battery upgrade, though specific numbers remain elusive.

For those who crave the absolute biggest screen, the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra will keep its imposing 14.6-inch display. Leaked renders and dimensions suggest it will largely match the Tab S11 Ultra in form factor. Its massive 11,600mAh battery and 45W charging speed are also expected to remain consistent, which is great for power users. Both tablets, of course, will be available in Wi-Fi-only and 5G-capable versions, giving you flexibility.

However, just like the S26 FE, the Tab S12 series is also expected to see a price increase. In the US, Wi-Fi-only models could be $200 higher than their predecessors. For instance, the Tab S12+ might start at $1,200 for 256GB and $1,400 for 512GB. The mighty Tab S12 Ultra could begin at $1,400 for 256GB, $1,600 for 512GB, and a hefty $2,000 for the 1TB version. If you opt for 5G connectivity, tack on an additional $150. In terms of RAM, only the 1TB Tab S12 Ultra will reportedly boast 16GB, while all other Tab S12 Ultra and Tab S12+ configurations will come with a generous 12GB.

All told, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Event in August 2026 is shaping up to be packed with exciting announcements. The Galaxy S26 FE, with its powerful new chip, clever camera software, and extended software support, looks like a fantastic device, even if it comes with a slightly higher price tag. And the Tab S12 series promises significant performance gains for tablet enthusiasts. It seems Samsung is truly committed to pushing the boundaries of what their Fan Edition and flagship tablet lines can offer. We'll all be watching keenly to see the official reveal!