The upcoming Galaxy S26 FE signals a strategic shift with Samsung utilising Qualcomm’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips alongside its own cellular components, marking a significant change from its predecessor.
Samsung’s next Fan Edition phone appears to be taking a mixed approach to wireless hardware. According to Federal Communications Commission certification documents reported by Dataconomy, the Galaxy S26 FE uses Samsung System LSI components for cellular connectivity while relying on Qualcomm’s FastConnect platform for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. That would mark a shift from the Galaxy S25 FE, which used Samsung-made parts across its wireless functions. The filings suggest the arrangement applies to both global and US versions of the handset.
The documents indicate that Samsung’s own hardware handles WWAN connections, covering 3G, 4G and 5G, while Qualcomm’s chip manages WLAN duties. In practical terms, that means the phone pairs an Exynos-based modem strategy with third-party short-range connectivity silicon. The move also aligns with reporting that Samsung System LSI continues to design Exynos processors, cellular modems and ISOCELL camera sensors, while Qualcomm FastConnect covers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The S26 FE is expected to launch next month, although Samsung has not announced a date. Leaks cited by Dataconomy and Android Central point to an Exynos 2500 processor, 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB and 512GB. Android Central also reported early benchmark results that appeared to support the Exynos 2500 claim, with the phone said to have shown single-core and multi-core scores that fit a mid-to-upper-tier device rather than a flagship.
Other expected specifications suggest a familiar FE formula with some incremental upgrades. The phone is said to feature a 6.7-inch display, a 12-megapixel front camera and a triple rear camera system led by a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilisation. Battery capacity is tipped at 4,900mAh, with 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. Dataconomy also reported that the device could ship with One UI 9.0 and up to seven major Android upgrades, which would place software support among the more important selling points if confirmed.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
