Samsung Electronics has launched Galaxy S26 FE, the newest addition to the Galaxy S26 family and the first in the lineup to launch with One UI 9 — bringing the latest premium Galaxy experiences to more users and a form of strong competitor to Apple’s iPhone lineup.

Speaking at a media conference held in its office in Lagos, the company said the event was organised to create greater awareness around the Fan Edition (FE) range and its role in expanding access to the S-series experience.

The Head, Product Marketing, MX Division OmoladeAgbadaola, stated that the FE series had been designed to introduce consumers to the S-family, particularly those who may not be able to purchase the higher-end Ultra models.

“FE has been in existence since the S20 FE, which is about six variants ago. It has always been the product we look to introduce to consumers as a welcome badge into the S family,” she said.

She further said that while Samsung’s flagship S-series typically launches with three major variants, the standard model, Plus and Ultra, the FE serves as an alternative entry point into the flagship ecosystem.

“So, aside from the S26 series that we launched earlier in the year, which usually carries three SKUs the S26, S26 Plus and Ultra this is the one that more or less introduces people into the S family,” she said.

“As we compete with the Apple guys, the ‘fruit guys,’ as we call them, we always look to see how we can continually expand and ensure that we are creating the right awareness for the wide array of devices that we have that compete strongly against the iPhone devices,” she said.

On his part, AyokunleAkinrinlola, mentioned some of the major features of the Galaxy S26 FE.

“These devices are for consumers who cannot actually get the Ultra or the higher-end models but still want the experience of what the S series is all about,” he said.

He added that the Galaxy S26 FE represents the sixth or seventh iteration of Samsung’s Fan Edition variants, with the company continuing to improve the devices based on consumer expectations.

According to him, one of the first things consumers would want to know about the new device was how it differed from its predecessor.

“The new device also features Photo Assist, which allows users to use AI to edit, modify and enhance images through simple commands.

“With the AI tool, users can add or remove objects from images, insert people into photographs, create stickers and generate different visual effects. It can also be used to reimagine images and create 3D-style caricatures and paintings.

“Another flagship-inspired camera feature is AI-powered video reframing, which allows users to select an individual within a video and focus on that person.”

Akinrinlola noted that the feature could be useful for content creators, sports fans and anyone who wants to isolate a particular subject in a video.