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The latest Samsung Unpacked event is here, and the retailer just unveiled its new line of flashy flagship phones. The Galaxy S26 lineup includes three new models (the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Ultra, and the Galaxy S26 Plus), and each offers more efficient batteries, overhauled software, and a suite of new AI features.
Also: Samsung Unpacked 2026: Live updates
Right now at AT&T, when you preorder the Samsung Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Ultra, or the Galaxy S26 Plus, you can receive your choice of phone for $0 if you trade in an eligible device. If this offer is redeemed to its full extent, you can save up to $1,300 off the Galaxy S26 Ultra, up to $1,100 off the Galaxy S26 Plus, and up to $900 off the Galaxy S26, applied after 36 monthly bill credits.
This means if you want to switch from another phone brand or upgrade your existing Samsung model, you just need to trade it in to AT&T to get a new Galaxy S26 phone in return. Of course, a mobile service plan is required. New and existing customers can take advantage of this deal, which requires either activating a new line or upgrading an existing one.
If you are a new customer with a single line of AT&T Unlimited Starter, the offer requires a postpaid unlimited voice and data plan starting at $76 per month before discounts. AT&T 55+, Value Plus, Value Plus VL, and Value Plus Unlimited plans are not eligible. See more eligible plans at AT&T.
Also: The best Samsung Galaxy S26 cases
If you're looking to apply a trade-in for credit, the most eligible models are the latest Samsung devices, which AT&T will take back in any condition. AT&T will take the Galaxy S24 Plus, Z Fold 5 or newer in any condition, or an eligible smartphone that has a minimum trade-in value of $230 for up to $1,300 off the Galaxy S26 Ultra. If you have other models, like the Galaxy S22 Plus, Z Fold3, or higher in any condition, or an eligible smartphone that has a minimum trade-in value of $95, you can receive up to $1,100 off the Galaxy S26 Plus. Other devices can bring in up to $900 off Galaxy S26, too, though condition requirements may apply. There's too many eligible devices for us to detail them all, but A&T has the full terms online.
Also: I tried the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and need the Privacy Display feature on my iPhone ASAP
The S26 Ultra is the brand's newest flagship phone, and ZDNET phone reviewer Prakhar Khanna, who's already gone hands-on with the device, says it offers “incremental upgrades across its design, cameras, and performance, but one display feature sets it apart from the competition” — including a new display feature that keeps what's on your screen private to you.
With the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display turned on, the screen is very lightly visible from the sides
Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET
AT&T has several other offers available. You can preorder the entire lineup starting today, with financing options available starting as low as $25 per month for the base S26 model. The S26 Plus will start at $31 per month, and the S26 Ultra will retail for $36 per month. You'll also be able to preorder the new Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro to pair with your new smartphone for voice and video calls, streaming, and more.
How I rated this deal
Getting your hands on a brand-new, just-announced Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra for free is a good deal. Yes, a service plan is necessary, and an eligible trade-in makes this deal the most enticing, but carrier freebies are the easiest and most affordable way to get an upgraded device. Both new and existing AT&T customers can take advantage of these new Samsung Galaxy deals via multiple combinations. That's why I gave this deal a 5/5 Editor's deal rating.
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