Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series is already making waves — not just for its specs, but for how much it seems to resemble Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup. According to multiple reports and leaked images, Samsung appears to have drawn inspiration from Apple’s latest design language, leading many to wonder: is this a coincidence or a calculated move?
The most noticeable change lies in the chassis design. The Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly features rounder edges than its predecessor, the S25 Ultra. While some users appreciate the softer contour for improved comfort, others feel that Samsung is abandoning the bold, boxy aesthetic that once set its flagship apart. At the same time, the Galaxy S26 Edge showcases a redesigned rear camera module that looks strikingly similar to the one found on the iPhone 17 Pro, sparking further debate among fans.
However, the most viral topic came from an alleged leak showing an orange Galaxy S26 Ultra, a color eerily close to Apple’s “Cosmic Orange” shade. It quickly spread online before insider Ice Universe clarified on Weibo that the image was fake — likely created with AI to stir buzz. Despite that, Samsung reportedly does have an orange variant planned for the S26 Ultra, though it’s expected to resemble the tones from the S24 Ultra or S23 Ultra rather than Apple’s version.
The broader question remains: is Samsung really copying Apple? The short answer is no. While Samsung has occasionally followed certain Apple trends — such as removing chargers from the box — the new S26 design choices seem to stem from practical and aesthetic evolution rather than imitation. The rounder frame, for example, enhances comfort, and the camera redesign is likely aimed at better internal organization and slimmer construction.
Ultimately, both tech giants often influence one another, and overlapping trends are inevitable. The shift toward warmer color palettes like orange may simply reflect broader market preferences. What’s clear, however, is that the Galaxy S26 lineup is shaping up to be one of Samsung’s most refined designs yet, blending familiarity with subtle innovation — even if it does remind us a little of the iPhone 17.
