David Mwangi, Technical Support Manager at Samsung Electronics East Africa, says the Galaxy S26 features upgraded hardware and “agentic AI” that anticipates user needs, manages calls, and blocks scams.
He says the device includes enhanced processors, improved neural technology, and tools designed to simplify daily tasks while offering warranty and screen protection options.
Speaking in a Radio Generation interview on Friday, he said the new device represents a major step forward in mobile innovation.
“The neural processing unit is where the AI is actually based,” he said, explaining that the processor has been improved to enhance performance and efficiency.
He noted that the phone’s hardware is lighter and thinner than previous models, featuring an aluminium body design.
He said improvements to the CPU, GPU, and neural processing unit make the device faster and more responsive.
A key feature of the Galaxy S26 is what Samsung calls “agentic AI,” which Mwangi described as a system that anticipates user needs rather than waiting for prompts.
“With agentic AI, it anticipates your needs,” he said, adding that the device can manage schedules, suggest actions, and assist with daily planning.
According to Mwangi, the phone can automatically remind users of missed appointments, suggest transport options, and even book services such as ride-hailing once activated in settings.
He said the feature is designed to function as a “personal assistant,” helping users manage tasks more efficiently.
The device also includes call management tools aimed at improving security. He said the AI can detect suspicious calls and warn users of potential scams.
“It will take the call for you,” he explained, adding that the system can identify and block suspected scam numbers, providing users with a summary of conversations if necessary.
Mwangi said these features are particularly useful in markets where phone scams are common, noting that users can configure the call-handling functions through the Galaxy AI settings.
The phone also integrates advanced translation and summarisation tools. Mwangi said users can translate articles into different languages, including summarised bullet points, for easier reading.
He added that the system currently supports 17 languages, with English and French among the most widely used in the region.
Another feature highlighted during the interview is the “circle to search” tool, which allows users to identify objects directly from their screen.
The Samsung manager said the upgraded version can analyse an entire image or video frame, identifying clothing, accessories, and other items, and recommending where they can be purchased online. “If it’s a picture, the whole screen is analysed,” he said.
The device also includes music recognition capabilities. Users can identify songs, artists, albums, and release years simply by using voice or search features, without downloading additional applications.
Mwangi said the system learns from a user’s Google and Samsung account history during setup, allowing it to personalise recommendations and notifications.
He explained that the phone can generate a 24-hour summary of missed calls, emails, and calendar events, helping users stay organised.
The Galaxy S26 also includes AI-driven photo editing tools, enabling users to modify images with simple text commands.
“You just type a sentence, it will edit automatically,” Mwangi said, describing features such as background adjustments and object enhancements.
On durability and after-sales service, he said Samsung operates service centres across Kenya and East Africa to handle repairs.
He added that devices come with a two-year warranty covering manufacturing defects.
The phone also offers an optional protection plan called Samsung Care Plus. He said customers can register within 30 days of purchase to receive screen protection coverage for one year, subject to terms and conditions.
He explained that under the plan, users pay a small fee in case of screen damage, and repairs are handled through authorised centres.
Mwangi concluded that the Galaxy S26 combines advanced AI, enhanced security, and improved hardware design to simplify everyday tasks and protect users from digital threats.
