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Samsung’s next Galaxy S26 series might introduce a much-needed mobile payments upgrade. Industry insiders expect that the phone will have significant Samsung Wallet changes intended to fix one particular problem users have endured for years: the tap-to-pay process.
With a new NFC configuration and potential integration of newer standards, the tech giant is ready to simplify in-store transactions once and for all.
Samsung Wallet has continued to add features, with users being able to hold boarding passes and IDs in addition to payment cards. However, its most basic feature, tap-to-pay, is still a frustration. New Galaxy phones place the NFC antenna below the rear camera, which means the user must position that precise spot on a payment terminal. The results include failed taps, odd hand positioning, and failure to complete transactions.
Apple Pay has long provided a smoother experience, with an NFC installation that doesn’t require such accuracy. That usability difference has made the Samsung Wallet awkward compared to people who use their phone for everyday purchases.
According to South Korean publication ETNews, Galaxy S26 will have a dual NFC antenna setup, one above the device and one at the rear. The upgrade would make tap-to-pay more reliable by enabling users to make payments from various angles without locating the ‘sweet spot.’
In addition, there has been speculation in industry circles that the company could back NFC Forum’s Release 15, a new standard that doubles the detection range from 0.5 cm to 2 cm. That would mean a phone can make the payment quickly and correctly, even if it is not aligned with a terminal. Samsung has not confirmed this, but tests could start later this year, perhaps just in time to feature the S26.
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While Samsung Wallet has added many bells and whistles, contactless payments are still its most-used feature. Enhancing the tap-to-pay experience could enable the company to reclaim ground in a competitive mobile payments market where Apple and Google lead.
In markets like India, where Samsung is a well-established brand and digital payments are rapidly flourishing, these developments might allow for further user adoption and satisfaction. Early 2026 seems to be the time frame when Samsung Galaxy S26 will be launched, giving Samsung a chance to work on an almost forgotten user feature and maybe redefining the appeal of its Wallet in the process.
