The future of smartphones arrived a little earlier for a select group of Smart Postpaid subscribers who were among the first in the country to experience the new Samsung Galaxy S26 Series during an exclusive early release event last March 6 at the Smart Store in SM Megamall
The gathering brought together Smart subscribers, Samsung fans, and early adopters eager to get their hands on the latest flagship device ahead of its official market launch.
Dubbed “First Step into the Future with Galaxy AI,” the event blended innovation, entertainment, and hands-on discovery as guests explored how the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series pushes the boundaries of mobile technology, creativity, and everyday convenience.
From March 27 onwards, the Smart-Samsung Trade-In Program—exclusive to Smart Postpaid and Infinity—introduces a more seamless and rewarding way for subscribers to own the latest Samsung flagship device at select Smart Stores.
Customers can conveniently trade in their current device when upgrading to the newest Samsung Galaxy S26 series, unlocking savings of up to 45% on their new smartphone. Designed to make premium innovation more accessible, the program empowers subscribers to enjoy cutting-edge Samsung features, enhanced performance, and next-level connectivity while maximizing the value of their existing device, making every upgrade smarter, simpler, and more worthwhile.
A night of interactive experiences
At the early release event, guests were welcomed with acoustic music, interactive booths, and creative activities where attendees customized phone charms and printed Instax photos to capture the moment.
Interactive games highlighted the capabilities of Galaxy AI. Participants tested their ability to distinguish real images from AI-generated ones, guessed objects through ultra-zoomed photos showcasing the device’s advanced camera features, and tried AI-powered photo editing using the Galaxy S26’s Generative Edit and Photo Assist tools.
The activities offered a glimpse of how Galaxy AI enhances everyday experiences—from capturing cinematic night videos to creating polished content with intelligent editing tools.
“Our partnership has always been about uplifting the Filipino spirit by keeping people connected to what matters most,” said Rhomel Marcojos, Head of Operator Business at Samsung Philippines.
“With the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series on Smart Postpaid, we’re introducing more than just a smartphone—it’s an AI phone designed for a generation that creates, shares, and lives in real time.”
Marcojos added that the Galaxy S26 series showcases the next evolution of Samsung’s artificial intelligence capabilities. “From Everyday AI that helps with daily tasks to Agentic AI that understands context and takes action, the phone becomes more than a tool—it becomes a smart companion,” he said, noting that strong connectivity also plays a key role in enabling these features.
Representing Smart, Niki Flojo, Head of Smart Postpaid, highlighted the company’s commitment to making the latest technology accessible to subscribers.
“Moments like this reflect what we aim to do at Smart—bringing the latest innovations closer to our subscribers. Through Smart Postpaid, customers can enjoy the newest devices through flexible plans, exclusive offers, and bundled benefits. With Smart 5G, subscribers get the fast and reliable connectivity needed to fully enjoy AI-powered features—from streaming and sharing to cloud-based tools and real-time experiences,” Flojo said.
Celebrating early adopters
One of the highlights of the evening was the reveal of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, which took center stage before the device was unveiled to the crowd
To cap off the celebration, 26 guests who pre-ordered the Galaxy S26 with Smart Postpaid won Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 in a special raffle draw.
“I’m glad to be part of this early release event and look forward to maximizing all the Galaxy AI features of the Samsung S26 to help with my work and productivity,” said Maymar Felicia, an accountant who has been a Smart Postpaid subscriber for five years
For Katya Casco, who has been a subscriber for 13 years, the device has been worth the wait.
“I rely heavily on my phone for my sales presentations, so I’m excited to make the most of every upgraded feature—from the hardware and camera to Galaxy AI,” she said.
Through initiatives like the Samsung Galaxy S26 early release event, Smart continues to give Filipinos early access to the latest devices and innovations powered by its mobile network.
To learn more about the Smart Postpaid offers for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series, visit smart.com.ph/Postpaid/GalaxyS26.
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