Quick take: Samsung is offering a $30 promotional credit to people who register their interest in the Galaxy S26 lineup before Unpacked. You don’t need to pay or enter payment details to reserve — just sign up on Samsung’s website or the Shop Samsung app and apply the credit once preorders open.
How the reservation credit works
Samsung is letting people reserve a Galaxy S26 device ahead of its Unpacked event. If you register your interest before the deadline (Samsung’s sign-up page lists a cutoff of 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT on the day of the event), you’ll receive a $30 promotional credit that can be applied in the Shop Samsung store when preorders open.
- No payment or credit-card information is required to reserve a device — just your name and email.
- The $30 credit can be applied at checkout after preorders begin.
- Note: the credit can’t be used to directly reduce the price of the new phones announced at Unpacked, but it can be used on accessories and other qualifying items.
Trade-in offers and potential savings
Alongside the reservation credit, Samsung is promoting trade-in credits when you buy a new Galaxy device. The company’s promotional materials mention trade-in values of up to $900, depending on the device and condition — for example, an S24 Ultra trade-in could be worth up to $700 in credit toward a new purchase. Eligibility and exact credit amounts depend on the phone’s model and condition, and devices must meet Samsung’s eligibility requirements.
What we know (and don’t) about the Galaxy S26
Samsung will officially unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup at its Unpacked event. Rumors and early reports point to a few potential additions and changes:
- A rumored built-in privacy mode that can selectively black out content from apps or parts of the display.
- Expanded Galaxy AI features, including new AI-powered camera tools and editing functions.
- Improvements to the camera system, including brighter sensors and software-driven photo tools.
Samsung’s full specs, pricing, and preorder details will be confirmed at Unpacked when the company opens preorders and applies any promotional credits.
Should you reserve?
Reserving a device to claim the $30 credit is low-risk: it’s free, requires minimal information, and the credit can be useful for accessories if you plan to buy one. If you’re considering an upgrade or like the idea of a small promotional credit when preorders open, it’s worth signing up before the deadline.
Image credit: The Verge