Is the Galaxy Forever Program Really Worth the Galaxy S26 Ultra?

Samsung is rethinking how premium smartphones are bought in India. With flagship prices slightly crossing the Rs 1 lakh mark, the company has introduced a new proprietary model called Galaxy Forever, which aims to make its flagship Galaxy devices more accessible without the burden of a full upfront payment.

Instead of a traditional purchase, the program offers a structured upgrade path with a guaranteed cashback value, allowing users to pay part of the cost of the device initially and decide later whether to upgrade, replace, or keep the device. This trend is already present in western markets like United States, Canada, Europe, etc., and Samsung is bringing this model to India to provide a seamless upgrade experience. Let’s understand the details of the Galaxy Forever plan and see if it is right for you.

Samsung’s Galaxy Forever Program is explained

At its core, the Galaxy Forever program is designed to reduce the upfront costs of owning a flagship Galaxy smartphone. Under this scheme, buyers pay around 50% of the device price on a 12-month cost-free EMI plan. The customer can keep and use the device for a period of 12 months, after which Samsung guarantees the purchase price again.

After one year, users are given three options:

• Improve to the new Galaxy flagship by replacing the current device.
• Come back device without upgrading (No questions asked).
• Save device by paying the remaining balance.

If you opt for the Galaxy Forever plan, you can pay in EMIs by using any of your own credit card or by using Samsung Finance+. After completing 12 months, you can keep the device by paying the remaining 50% balance, or choose between a refund and an upgrade.

Devices purchased under this program also come bundled Samsung Care+ which costs Rs 13,999, which offers accidental liquid damage protection with zero deductible. In simple words, your device gets more protection from accidents, without paying even the full price of the phone.

Samsung also says it will provide a No Questions Asked return policy. This will allow customers to return the device after one year without worry.

Devices Eligible Under Samsung’s Galaxy Forever Program

Samsung is currently positioning its Galaxy Forever lineup alongside its premium flagship, starting with the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Plus. Note that the base variant of the Galaxy S26 is not included yet. The company has not shared details on whether this program will be extended to other flagships, such as the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip Series.

You can register for the Galaxy Forever program on Samsung.com or at any Samsung Experience Store across India.

Galaxy Forever Payment Schedule

Should You Get the Galaxy Forever Plan?

The Galaxy Forever plan makes a lot of sense for someone who prefers to upgrade to the latest flagship every year without worrying about resale value. It is especially suitable for those who upgrade regularly, prefer predictable monthly payments to high upfront costs, and want to avoid the hassle of selling their old device. For such users, the system offers clear convenience by simplifying both ownership and development cycles.

It also appeals to consumers who want access to premium devices but are reluctant to commit to their full price immediately. Guaranteed returns help remove uncertainty about depreciation, which is often a problem in the resale market, making the entire ownership experience predictable.

They are bad

Although the system simplifies ownership, it is not without trade-offs. One of the main limitations is that there is no full ownership upfront, as users only pay part of the cost of the device initially. Full ownership remains conditional unless the remaining balance is cleared, meaning you cannot sell or dispose of the device during the contract period. Additionally, guaranteed returns are subject to the device being in acceptable condition, which means any damage may lead to a refund or affect the final price.

The program also tends to create a level of ecosystem lock-in, as it encourages users to stay within Samsung’s development cycle rather than switching brands. In addition, it offers limited flexibility in terms of when and how users can exit the system without financial implications. Therefore, you will not be able to switch to a new phone (Samsung or non-Samsung) within a 12-month period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I own the phone under the Galaxy Forever plan?

You partially own the device within a 12-month period. Full ownership is only given if you choose to pay the remaining amount after the performance period.

Q. What happens if I damage the phone before returning it?

The return value depends on the state of the device. Major damage may result in a charge or affect your ability to return the device under the terms of the program.

Q. Can I sell the phone within a 12 month period?

No, you cannot sell the phone during the 12-month period of the Galaxy Forever plan.

Wrapping up

Samsung’s Galaxy Forever lineup reflects a broader shift in the smartphone industry as consumers look for premium options. Instead of owning the device, you are essentially renting the phone, with the option to keep it or return it. It also gives you the flexibility of paying EMIs while you can use the device. If you are someone who wants to experience the latest Samsung flagship every year, this program makes perfect sense. For users who want flexibility, the system may not look appealing.

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