Samsung Unpacked 2026: The Galaxy S26 Ultra Is Here — And It’s Free With Trade-In

Samsung just pulled the curtain back on its most ambitious flagship lineup yet — the Galaxy S26 series — and AT&T is already offering one of the most aggressive carrier promotions we’ve seen in years. If you’re eyeing the S26 Ultra, the headline deal is simple: trade in an eligible device and get the S26 Ultra for $0 (after 36 monthly bill credits, up to $1,300 value).

This isn’t just a teaser offer — it’s live right now and available to both new and existing AT&T customers.

The S26 Ultra: Incremental Upgrades, One Game-Changing Feature

While the Galaxy S26 Ultra brings expected refinements — faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, brighter AMOLED display, improved battery efficiency — one feature stands out: the Privacy Display. When enabled, this display dramatically narrows the viewing angle so that only you can clearly see what’s on your screen. From the side? The screen appears nearly black. It’s the kind of subtle-yet-brilliant innovation that makes the S26 Ultra feel meaningfully different from the competition.

ZDNET’s Prakhar Khanna, who went hands-on at Unpacked, called it a “must-have” feature, noting he wished it was on his iPhone immediately.

AT&T Trade-In Breakdown: How to Get It Free

Here’s how the AT&T trade-in promotion breaks down:

• Galaxy S26 Ultra: Up to $1,300 off (after 36 monthly credits)
• Galaxy S26 Plus: Up to $1,100 off (after 36 monthly credits)
• Galaxy S26: Up to $900 off (after 36 monthly credits)

Eligible Trade-In Devices:

• Galaxy S24 Plus, Z Fold 5 or newer (any condition) → up to $1,300 off Ultra
• Galaxy S22 Plus, Z Fold 3 or newer (any condition) → up to $1,100 off Plus
• Other eligible smartphones with minimum trade-in value of $230, $95, or $25 depending on model

Even older Samsung devices or competing brands can qualify — just check AT&T’s online trade-in tool for exact values.

Monthly Pricing (Without Trade-In)

If you don’t have a trade-in, here’s the standard financing:

• Galaxy S26: $25/month
• Galaxy S26 Plus: $31/month
• Galaxy S26 Ultra: $36/month

Plus, AT&T is also offering the new Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro as add-ons for calls, music, and more.

Why This Deal Earns a 5/5 Rating

Getting the latest flagship for free — especially one with a truly unique feature like Privacy Display — is rare. Combine that with broad eligibility (new and existing customers, multiple trade-in options), and you’ve got a carrier deal that’s hard to beat. That’s why ZDNET gave it a perfect 5/5 Editor’s Deal Rating.

Pro Tip: This deal is time-sensitive. Promotions like this often expire fast once inventory runs low or Samsung shifts focus to the next cycle. If you’ve been waiting to upgrade, this is your window.

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