The China-exclusive Samsung W26 is now official as the Z Fold7’s distant cousin, and like previous W-series releases, it comes with some minor cosmetic changes and a more premium unboxing experience.
Samsung also added satellite connectivity on the W26, which allows users in China to use the Tiantong satellite system for calling and messaging in areas without network connectivity.
The only other hardware change is the 16GB RAM, which comes as standard on both the 512GB storage and 1TB storage models of the W26.
Samsung W26 is available in red and black colors, with both models featuring gold accents around the frame and camera rings. The other change is the much larger retail box, which continues the gold accent details and also houses a few complimentary goodies that are no longer included with Samsung phones.
These include a color-matched Kevlar case, a 25W charger, a USB-C cable and a CNY 1,000 gift card.
The nicer packaging and extra goodies come at a premium as the W26 starts at CNY 16,999 for the 16GB RAM and 512GB storage version, which equates to $2,390. Samsung is also offering a higher-tier 16GB RAM and 1TB storage trim for CNY 18,999 ($2,670).
Samsung W26 is available for pre-order from Samsung and China Telecom.
Source (in Chinese)