Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26: A Look at the New Mid-Range Smartphones

Samsung has introduced new models in its Galaxy A-series: the Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26. These new models come with AI-powered features, improved performance, and a promise of six years of software updates, making them strong contenders in the mid-range smartphone market. However, while these devices offer many great features, there are still some areas where improvements could be made. Let’s take a look at what's new, what has improved, and what could have been better in the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Design and Display

The Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 continue Samsung’s tradition of sleek and modern design. All three models feature a glossy plastic back with a matte finish, giving them a premium look. The A56 and A36 come with slim bezels and a punch-hole display, while the A26 has a slightly thicker chin and a waterdrop notch.

There have been some improvements in the display department. The Galaxy A56 features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and responsive touch input. The A36 has a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, while the A26 comes with a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED screen but is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate. While the A56 and A36 deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks, the A26’s 60Hz display feels outdated compared to other mid-range devices in 2024.

One area where Samsung could have improved is durability. None of these devices come with an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, which is now becoming common in this price range. Many competing smartphones already offer this feature.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Performance

The Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 are powered by Samsung’s Exynos processors. The A56 features the Exynos 1480, the A36 runs on the Exynos 1380, and the A26 is equipped with the Exynos 1280 processor. These chipsets improve performance compared to their predecessors, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming.

The A56 and A36, in particular, benefit from enhanced GPU performance, allowing them to run demanding games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile on medium to high settings. The A26, while less powerful, still provides decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.

All three models come with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage, along with microSD card support for storage expansion. However, the absence of a 12GB RAM option in the A56 might be disappointing for users who need more power. Many users prefer higher RAM for better performance.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Camera

The camera systems in the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 have been significantly improved, with a strong focus on AI-powered features.

• Galaxy A56: 64MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and 5MP macro sensor.
• Galaxy A36: 50MP main camera, 8MP ultra-wide lens, and 5MP macro sensor.
• Galaxy A26: 48MP main camera, 5MP ultra-wide lens, and 2MP depth sensor.

AI enhancements such as Scene Optimizer, Night Mode, and Noise Reduction help improve image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The A56 and A36 also feature a new AI-powered portrait mode, offering better edge detection and natural bokeh effects.

For video recording, all three devices support 4K recording at 30fps, while the A56 includes extra stabilization features for smoother footage. However, the lack of 4K 60fps recording is a major drawback, especially since many competitors in this price range already offer this feature. Many brands have started including this capability.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Battery Life

Battery life has always been a strong point of Samsung’s Galaxy A-series, and these new models maintain that reputation.

• Galaxy A56: 5,000mAh battery
• Galaxy A36: 4,800mAh battery
• Galaxy A26: 4,500mAh battery

All three devices support 25W fast charging, which is a significant improvement over the 15W charging of the previous generation.

In real-world usage, the A56 and A36 can easily last a full day of heavy use, while the A26 offers decent battery life. However, the lack of wireless charging is a disappointment, as this feature is becoming increasingly common in mid-range smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Software

One of the biggest highlights of the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 is Samsung’s promise of six years of software updates. This ensures that these devices will remain secure and up-to-date until 2030, making them one of the most future-proof options in the mid-range segment.

All three devices run on Samsung’s One UI 6.1, based on Android 14. The software is user-friendly and includes useful features such as Multi-Window, Secure Folder, and Bixby Integration. However, pre-installed apps and duplicate services might be frustrating for users who prefer a cleaner experience.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – What Could Have Been Better?

While the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 offer many great features, there are still some areas where Samsung could have done better:

1.    No IP Rating – Lack of water and dust resistance is a major drawback, especially when competitors offer this feature.

2.    A26’s 60Hz Display – Feels outdated compared to A36’s 90Hz and A56’s 120Hz displays.

3.    No Wireless Charging – Despite fast charging improvements, wireless charging is still missing.

4.    No 4K 60fps Video Recording – A big limitation for content creators, as many competitors already offer this.

Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 – Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 are solid mid-range smartphones that offer a lot of value. With AI-powered cameras, improved performance, and six years of software updates, these devices are suitable for most users. However, the lack of IP rating, wireless charging, and 4K 60fps recording prevents them from being truly exceptional.

For those looking for a reliable and future-proof smartphone, the Galaxy A56 and A36 are excellent choices. The A26, while more affordable, might struggle to compete with devices offering better features at the same price. Overall, Samsung has introduced a strong lineup, but there is still room for improvement in future models.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key upgrades in the Galaxy A56, A36, and A26?

• AI-powered cameras for better photos and videos.
• Better performance with new Exynos processors (1480, 1380, and 1280).
• Higher refresh rate displays (A56: 120Hz, A36: 90Hz, A26: 60Hz).
• Six years of software support.
• Faster 25W charging.

2. How is the camera performance?

• A56: 64MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 5MP macro.
• A36: 50MP main + 8MP ultra-wide + 5MP macro.
• A26: 48MP main + 5MP ultra-wide + 2MP depth sensor.

3. Do these phones support 5G?
Yes, all three models support 5G for faster internet speeds.

4. How long will these phones receive software updates?
Samsung has promised six years of software updates, ensuring support until 2030.

5. What are the main drawbacks?

• No IP rating for water/dust resistance.
• No 4K 60fps recording.
• No wireless charging.