The chipset configuration for Samsung's upcoming flagship has been a persistent source of speculation and debate among tech enthusiasts. Recent leaks have suggested a possible return to a dual-chip strategy, with Samsung's own Exynos processor powering some models. However, newly surfaced regulatory documents appear to provide a definitive answer, at least for the top-tier model, while also offering clues about the device's potential launch timeline.
FCC Certification Locks in Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for S26 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has passed through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, a critical step before a device can be sold. The certification documents, filed on December 9, 2025, reveal that the US model (presumed to be the S948U) will be powered by Qualcomm's flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 system-on-chip (SoC). More significantly, the documents also list an international variant (model S948B), which carries the same chipset identification. This strongly suggests that, contrary to some rumors, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon chipset across all global markets, potentially unifying the user experience for the first time in several generations for the Ultra model.
Key Model Numbers & Chipset from FCC:
- S948U: Presumed US carrier-locked variant. Confirmed with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
- S948B: Presumed international variant. Also confirmed with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
- Implication: Points to a single, global chipset (Snapdragon) for the S26 Ultra model.
Details and Technologies Revealed in the Filing
Beyond just confirming the processor, the FCC filing provides technical insights into the device's capabilities. The documentation notes support for Smart Transmit Plus technology, an uplink boosting feature exclusive to the Qualcomm X85 modem integrated within the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. This confirms the use of Qualcomm's latest modem technology. The filing also certifies the device for advanced communication standards, including triple-band Wi-Fi 7, 5G, NFC (Near Field Communication), and UWB (Ultra-Wideband). These specs align with expectations for a 2026 flagship, ensuring top-tier connectivity for data, payments, and precise short-range location tracking.
Certified Technologies:
- Chipset/Modem: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with X85 modem (confirmed via Smart Transmit Plus feature).
- Connectivity: Triple-band Wi-Fi 7, 5G, NFC, Ultra-Wideband (UWB).
Speculation Shifts to Standard S26 and S26 Plus Models
While the Ultra model's chipset appears settled, the regulatory silence leaves the door open for speculation regarding the standard Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus. The FCC documents pertain only to the Ultra variant, meaning Samsung could still employ a different chipset strategy for the other models in the series. Recent rumors have pointed to the possibility of the Exynos 2600 chipset appearing in certain regions or specific models, with one leak suggesting all models sold in Samsung's home country of South Korea might use the in-house processor. The final configuration for these devices remains one of the key unanswered questions ahead of the official unveiling.
Launch Timeline Potentially Shifting to February
The FCC filing has also fueled discussions about Samsung's launch schedule. Historically, the company has held its Galaxy S series Unpacked event in late January. However, sources cited in the leaks indicate a potential shift to a late February event for the S26 family, possibly moving the venue back to San Francisco. A February launch would place the announcement much closer to the annual Mobile World Congress (MWC) trade show in Barcelona, which typically occurs in late February or early March. This strategic timing could allow Samsung to dominate the early-year mobile news cycle and generate sustained buzz heading into the industry's largest gathering.
Launch Timeline Context:
- Historical Launch: Late January Unpacked event.
- 2026 Rumored Launch: Late February.
- Potential Venue: San Francisco (shift from recent San Jose events).
- Strategic Note: A late February launch aligns closely with the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona.
Performance Expectations and Thermal Considerations
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is expected to be a performance powerhouse, and the FCC filing hints it may be a "for Galaxy" version, which is typically a custom, overclocked variant of the chip optimized for Samsung's devices. However, this raw power comes with a known challenge: thermal management. Early devices using this chipset, such as those from RedMagic, have been reported to generate significant heat under load. A key focus for Samsung's engineers will be implementing a robust cooling solution to ensure sustained performance without excessive throttling or discomfort, a critical factor for the device's reputation among power users and gamers.
Conclusion: A Unified Flagship Experience Awaits
The FCC certification for the Galaxy S26 Ultra provides the clearest evidence yet that Samsung is standardizing its top-tier model around the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform globally. This move would address long-standing consumer concerns about performance disparities between regions. With high-end connectivity specs confirmed and a launch that may be just over two months away, the stage is set for Samsung to reveal its 2026 flagship vision. All eyes will now be on the company for an official invitation, which will finally confirm the date and settle the remaining mysteries surrounding the entire Galaxy S26 lineup.