Top Upcoming Gadgets of 2026: AR Glasses, Samsung Foldables, AI Devices & More

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for tech enthusiasts. From Snap’s long-anticipated AR glasses to Samsung’s next-gen foldables, from Sony’s gaming gear to Apple’s smart glasses (AI-powered), the upcoming product cycle promises innovations that push boundaries in wearables, mobility, gaming, and AI.

This article dives deep into the most credible and officially announced gadgets for 2026, explains why they matter, and explores what consumers can expect.

1. Snap Specs 2026: AR Glasses for the Masses

In 2026, Snap is set to release immersive, lightweight Spectacles (Specs) designed to finally bring AR wearables closer to mainstream use. Unlike VR headsets that isolate the user, Snap’s AR glasses aim to overlay digital content seamlessly onto the real world.

Confirmed by Snap: These Specs will be an “ultra-powerful wearable computer” with see-through lenses.
Why it matters: For years, AR glasses struggled with bulkiness, battery issues, and limited applications. Snap’s 2026 release could define how consumers adopt AR for social media, gaming, and even productivity.
Practical use cases: Imagine live captions in real life, navigation overlays while walking, or interactive AR shopping.

This release could also accelerate adoption of AR apps on Snap’s platform, giving it an edge over rivals like Meta and Apple.

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold “Wide” Variant

Foldable phones have moved from novelty to refinement. By 2026, Samsung is expected to launch two Galaxy Z Fold models, including a “Wide” fold variant with dual 18:9 displays that open into a near-tablet experience.

Rumor credibility: Multiple supply-chain reports (SamMobile / The Elec) suggest this development is part of Samsung’s strategy to diversify its foldable portfolio.
What to expect: Improved hinges, crease reduction, and more durable ultra-thin glass.
Why it matters: Foldables are finally reaching maturity. With a wide form factor, Samsung will appeal to users who want tablet-like productivity without carrying two devices.

If released in 2026, this could solidify Samsung’s dominance in the foldable category just as Apple is rumored to prepare its first foldable device.

3. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Another major Samsung highlight for 2026 is the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Expected in late January 2026, leaks suggest big upgrades:

Display: 6.9-inch AMOLED with higher refresh rates.
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.
Battery: ~5000 mAh with better charging efficiency.
Cameras: Enhanced low-light and zoom sensors, keeping Samsung ahead in smartphone photography.
Why it matters: The S-series has always been Samsung’s showcase of innovation. The S26 Ultra is likely to refine AI-driven camera features, improved heat management, and better integration with Galaxy’s ecosystem of wearables and tablets.

4. Sony FlexStrike: A Pro-Grade Fight Stick

Gamers can look forward to the Sony FlexStrike, a high-end fight stick designed for PS5 and PC, officially announced with a release window in 2026.

Features: Both wired and wireless connectivity, customizable buttons, modular design, and premium build quality.
Why it matters: Fighting game communities are growing, especially with esports tournaments. Sony’s official hardware signals recognition of this market.
For gamers: Aimed at competitive play, it could become the gold standard for professional fighting game setups.

5. Apple’s smart glasses (AI-powered)

What We Know So Far

Apple is aiming to release its first AI-powered smart glasses by late 2026.
The device is being developed under internal project names like “N401” (evolving from an earlier code “N50”).
Prototypes in large numbers are expected by the end of 2025, working with overseas suppliers.
Key hardware features expected include: built-in camera, microphones, speakers, and integration with Siri for voice control.
The product may not support full augmented reality (AR) at launch—some versions are expected to be more modest (just “smart glasses”) while AR-capable versions might come later.
Apple is also working on custom chips specially designed for these glasses, possibly derived from the Apple Watch chip family, optimized to support multiple cameras and AI tasks. Mass production of the chip is planned for late 2026 or into 2027.
There is a strong emphasis on privacy and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem (iPhone, perhaps Watch / AirPods). On-device processing is expected for certain functions.

What People Expect/Speculate

These points aren’t confirmed but are generally believed:

Features like real-time translation, live navigation, support for making calls and listening to music directly via glasses.
Possible non-AR model and AR model variants: Apple might launch a simpler version first (without AR), followed by a more advanced AR version later.
The design will likely emphasize comfort, lightweight build, and stylish aesthetics (Apple’s hallmark) to make them wearable for longer durations.
There could be tight integration with other Apple services: Siri as assistant, possible synergy with iCloud, data/health integration, notifications, etc.

Relevance & Why It Matters

Competition: Meta (Ray-Ban smart glasses), Google (Android XR), and others are already active. Apple entering with AI and its ecosystem strength could shift market dynamics.
User potential: For users, it means a possible wearable that blends AI assistance (voice, translation, navigation) with lightweight design and strong privacy, rather than big bulky AR/VR headsets.
Apple’s strategy: This ties to Apple’s push into AI-enhanced devices beyond phones/PCs. It complements Apple Intelligence and other AI work. It also shows Apple choosing to drop some other AI-hardware projects (for example, a camera-equipped Apple Watch) to focus resources.

6. OpenAI’s Planned AI Device

In 2025, OpenAI’s Sam Altman revealed that the company aims to ship its first consumer AI device by late 2026.

What it might be: Details are scarce, but speculation ranges from an AI-first wearable (like earbuds or glasses) to a standalone assistant device.
Why it matters: Unlike existing smart devices (Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant), OpenAI could offer a product powered by its frontier AI models, capable of complex reasoning and personalization.
Risks: Hardware is notoriously difficult, and timelines can slip. But even as a prototype, this could reshape the AI + hardware landscape.

Speculative but Worth Watching (Lower Confidence)

Apple Foldable iPhone: Multiple leaks suggest Apple is developing a crease-free foldable, but mass-market release is unconfirmed. If it slips to 2027, Samsung may dominate the category longer.
Apple’s “Ambitious 2026 Plans”: Reports hint at new Apple Watch models, M5 MacBooks, and other gadgets, but nothing official ties them strictly to 2026.

These rumors keep fans excited, but unlike Snap, Samsung, Sony, or Polestar, Apple hasn’t made concrete commitments for 2026.

Conclusion:

2026 is shaping up to be a watershed year for advanced gadgets. Unlike earlier cycles dominated by incremental updates, we’re seeing a mix of confirmed launches (Snap Specs, Polestar 6, Sony FlexStrike) and credible leaks (Samsung foldables, S26 Ultra).