The Samsung Electronics Galaxy S27 series, scheduled for release in early next year, is expected to set a new record as the most expensive S series to date. The starting price of the S27 Ultra is highly likely to exceed 2 million won.
According to leaked information from PhoneArena, foreign media outlets, and tipsters compiled on the 20th, Samsung Electronics' flagship smartphone S27 series, expected to launch around February next year, is projected to be unveiled in four versions: standard, Plus, Pro, and Ultra.
Among these, the price of the S27 Ultra is most likely to be $1,499 for the 256GB model. Based on the dollar exchange rate from the previous day (1,338 won), this amounts to approximately 2.01 million won. The 512GB model is estimated at $1,699 (approximately 2.27 million won), and the 1TB model at $1,999 (approximately 2.67 million won).
The S27 Pro, newly joining this lineup, is expected to start at $1,399 (approximately 1.87 million won) for the 256GB model, while the S27+ will start at $1,199 (approximately 1.60 million won), and the standard S27 at $999 (approximately 1.34 million won). Compared to the launch prices of the previous S26 series, these prices are $100 to $200 higher. Relative to the price increases implemented on October 1, the standard and Plus models remain unchanged, while a gap of approximately $100 emerges for the Ultra model. The domestic launch price of the S27 Ultra is also predicted to start at over 2 million won.
This price increase is attributed to rising costs of memory, a core smartphone component, including DRAM and NAND flash. Market research firm TrendForce forecasted in late last month that contract prices for general-purpose DRAM in the fourth quarter would rise by 10% to 15% compared to the previous quarter, while NAND flash prices would increase by 15% to 20%. This creates a structure where record-high prices are inevitably set with each new product release.
However, if new product prices are raised again following the price increases implemented earlier this month, consumer resistance could grow. Whether consumers receive utility value commensurate with the price increase is expected to determine the product's commercial success.
The most significant change in the Galaxy S27 Ultra compared to its predecessor will be the display. It is predicted that the privacy display technology introduced in the S26 Ultra will evolve into a second generation, applying a "split screen" mode. This technology allows users to adjust window sizes to activate privacy mode only for specific apps. Additionally, changes such as reduced eye strain and improved clarity are expected through "DC dimming," which adjusts brightness by controlling display current.
It is also suggested that 16-megapixel front-facing camera sensors may be introduced exclusively in the S27 Ultra and Pro models. The standard and Plus models will retain the existing 12-megapixel front-facing camera sensors. This will be a factor affecting those who frequently take selfies. Regarding design, it is predicted that the rear camera islands on the Pro and Ultra models may adopt a horizontal orientation, marking a significant shift in identity from the existing vertical camera island design.
Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics stated that while price increases next year are unavoidable, specific details such as the magnitude of the increase or the S27 launch timing have not yet been determined.
in TECH
