Timothy Beck Werth, the Tech Editor at Mashable, is well acquainted with the world of consumer technology, bringing over 15 years of journalism experience to the forefront of his coverage. Previously serving as the Managing Editor at SPY.com and contributing to notable publications like GQ, Werth has dipped into various facets of tech and lifestyle, including smart home gadgets and men’s grooming products.
In his latest commentary, Werth reflects on his long-standing association with Apple’s iPhone while expressing an open-mindedness towards switching to Android, particularly with the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup anticipated for late February. With leaked features and innovations surfacing, Samsung has a prime opportunity to attract users like him who may be looking for something different.
Among the intriguing features expected from the Galaxy S26 series is the Privacy Display, enabling users to shield their screens from prying eyes, a useful trait for those frequently on public transportation. Moreover, the series is set to debut the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, touted as the fastest mobile system on chip, promising significant enhancements in battery life and performance.
Samsung could also entice users by offering free access to Google Gemini, an AI solution currently available with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7. While a global memory shortage may affect Samsung’s typical promotional offers, an attractive AI subscription could still make the S26 stand out amidst competition.
Another anticipated feature is the Scam Detection functionality, currently exclusive to Google Pixel phones. This proactive measure alerts users to potential scammers, a significant improvement over existing measures on iPhones.
Additionally, reports suggest the S26 could incorporate enhanced Gorilla Glass technology, minimizing the need for screen protectors. While improvements to camera capabilities are expected, hopes are high that the advancements could overshadow the current strengths of iPhone photography.
Visually, Samsung seems poised to adopt a sleek, Liquid Glass-inspired design for its One UI 8.5, further blurring the lines between the Android and iOS experiences. As a tech journalist who frequently relies on their phone for photography, Werth emphasizes the importance of capabilities like 4K HDR video and superior selfie cameras in his decision-making process when considering a switch.
Most exciting for Werth is the potential unveiling of the Galaxy TriFold, a smartphone that he had the chance to explore at CES 2026. With its innovative design and features, it has left a lasting impression on him, making him hopeful for its U.S. release date.
While Werth remains loyal to the iPhone for now, he acknowledges that Samsung’s new features and offerings could make the transition to Android a real possibility, keeping the tech industry on its toes as companies innovate and enhance user experiences.