Samsung has officially unveiled three new smartphones under its popular Galaxy A series — Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, Samsung Galaxy A36 5G, and Samsung Galaxy A26 5G. These new devices aim to redefine the mid-range smartphone segment by introducing premium features such as AI-powered tools, improved cameras, longer software support, and water and dust resistance across all models.
This latest refresh is particularly significant as Samsung has unified many features across the lineup, giving users more value at every price point. With AI features trickling down from Samsung’s premium S25 lineup, the new A-series phones are set to compete with TECNO, Infinix, OPPO, and Xiaomi devices in Kenya. The new devices join the Galaxy A16 and Galaxy A06 devices launched last year – the two of which fall in the lower end segment in pricing and specs.
Awesome Intelligence Brings AI to the Mid-Range
Samsung is introducing what it calls Awesome Intelligence, a play on both Artificial Intelligence and Apple Intelligence which all abbreviate to AI. All three phones feature Google’s Circle to Search, allowing users to quickly search for any text, image, or item on-screen using a simple gesture. The phones also include Object Eraser, which uses AI to remove unwanted objects from photos, and Custom Filters, allowing users to create unique filters based on existing images.
The Galaxy A56 5G exclusively offers Best Face, a feature that lets users swap facial expressions in group photos to ensure everyone looks their best. Samsung also enhances low-light photography on the A56 with Low Noise Mode on the front camera, improving nighttime selfies.
Unified Design, Larger Displays, and Enhanced Durability
All three devices feature 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, offering smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. Samsung has equipped all models with IP67 dust and water resistance, making them more durable than most competitors in the mid-range segment.
The A36 and A56 have punch-hole selfie cameras, while the A26 retains a teardrop notch. All models come with Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on both the front and back, ensuring improved scratch resistance.
Long-Term Software Support
Samsung is offering six years of Android OS updates and six years of security patches for the entire 2025 A-series lineup, matching its flagship Galaxy S25 series in software longevity. This extended software commitment provides long-term value, ensuring users get new features and critical security updates well into the future.
Improved Performance with AI Enhancements
The Galaxy A56 5G is powered by the new Exynos 1580 chipset, delivering faster performance and more efficient multitasking. The A36 5G runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, while the A26 5G sticks with Exynos 1380. All three models come with 5,000mAh batteries, though only the A36 and A56 support 45W fast charging, capable of charging from 0 to 65% in just 30 minutes.
The Galaxy A56 and A36 also benefit from larger vapor chambers to manage heat better during gaming and multitasking.
Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, A26 Detailed Specs Comparison:
| Feature | Galaxy A56 5G | Galaxy A36 5G | Galaxy A26 5G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz, Vision Booster, 1,200 nits (HBM), 1,900 nits peak | 6.7″ FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz, Vision Booster, 1,200 nits (HBM), 1,900 nits peak | 6.7″ FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Dimensions & Weight | 162.2 x 77.5 x 7.4mm, 198g | 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4mm, 195g | 164.0 x 77.5 x 7.7mm, 200g |
| Processor | Exynos 1580 | Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 | Exynos 1380 |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB + 128GB or 256GB | 6GB/8GB + 128GB or 256GB | 6GB/8GB + 128GB or 256GB + microSD support |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP main (OIS), 12MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro | 50MP main (OIS), 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro | 50MP main (OIS), 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP | 13MP |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K 30fps, 10-bit HDR | Up to 4K 30fps, 10-bit HDR | 4K 30fps (rear only) |
| Battery | 5,000mAh, 45W Super Fast Charge 2.0 | 5,000mAh, 45W Super Fast Charge 2.0 | 5,000mAh, 25W charging |
| OS | Android 15 with One UI 7 | Android 15 with One UI 7 | Android 15 with One UI 7 |
| Software Support | 6 years OS & security updates | 6 years OS & security updates | 6 years OS & security updates |
| AI Features | Circle to Search, Object Eraser, Custom Filters, Best Face, Low Noise Mode | Circle to Search, Object Eraser, Custom Filters | Circle to Search, Object Eraser, Custom Filters |
| Water & Dust Resistance | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus+ (front & back), metal frame | Gorilla Glass Victus+ (front & back), plastic frame | Gorilla Glass Victus+ (front & back), plastic frame |
| Colours | Light Grey, Graphite, Olive, Pink | Lavender, Black, White, Lime | Black, White, Mint, Peach Pink |
| Other Features | Stereo speakers, Knox Vault, large vapor chamber cooling | Stereo speakers, Knox Vault, large vapor chamber cooling | Side-mounted fingerprint scanner |
Pricing and Availability in Kenya
Although official Kenyan prices are yet to be confirmed, estimates based on global pricing suggest:
- Galaxy A56 5G – Around KES 78,000
- Galaxy A36 5G – Around KES 62,000
- Galaxy A26 5G – Around KES 46,000
These prices will likely fluctuate depending on exchange rates, retail promotions, and Samsung’s early bird offers in Kenya. If they launch with these prices, they will be the most expensive yet from Samsung A-series lineup. We already complained about how recommending these devices at high prices will be an issue. Let’s see what incentives Samsung will pull if they launch at such costs in Kenya.
Conclusion
Samsung’s 2025 Galaxy A series raises the bar for mid-range smartphones, blending premium AI features, improved durability, and extended software support into accessible devices. With 5G connectivity, impressive cameras, and enhanced performance, the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 offer compelling propositions for anyone looking for a reliable, future-proof smartphone.
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