Samsung is reportedly making a key usability change in its upcoming Galaxy S26 series that could solve a problem users have long complained about — inconsistent and awkward contactless payment experiences. The problem lies in the confusing placement of the NFC antenna on previous models, which makes using Samsung Pay or Google Pay frustrating for many users, especially in high-traffic retail situations.
Now, according to a report from ETNews, Samsung may finally address this issue by adding an additional NFC antenna to the top of the phone, aiming to offer a smoother and more intuitive payment process — similar to the iPhone’s seamless tap-to-pay interface.
This article breaks down the issue, explains the upcoming fix, and details how it affects Indian smartphone users who are rapidly adopting UPI and NFC-based payment solutions.
Summary Table – Samsung Galaxy S26 NFC Upgrade
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Upgrade | Addition of a new NFC antenna at the top of the phone |
| Reason for Upgrade | To improve contactless payments and eliminate inconsistent NFC issues |
| Existing Problem | Confusing NFC antenna placement across Galaxy models |
| Benefit to Indian Users | Easier UPI/NFC transactions with Samsung Pay and Google Pay |
| Comparable to iPhone | Yes, iPhones already have a top-mounted NFC antenna |
| Design Confirmation | Not yet final; subject to change before launch |
| Possible Delay | Apple’s patents may have slowed down development |
| Official Website | Samsung India |
What Is the Problem with Current Samsung NFC Placement?
For many Samsung Galaxy users, especially those who frequently use Samsung Wallet, Google Pay, or BHIM UPI NFC, the process of making a contactless payment can be frustrating.
Samsung places the NFC coil in inconsistent locations across devices:
- Galaxy S23 Ultra: Middle of the back panel, overlapping the wireless charging coil
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: Slightly higher
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: Noticeably lower
This inconsistency makes it hard to know where to tap the phone against payment terminals. Users often have to tilt or adjust the phone repeatedly for the payment to go through, resulting in delays or failed transactions.
In contrast, Apple iPhones have a consistent NFC antenna placement at the top of the device, making it easier for users to tap and pay without thinking.
Samsung’s Solution for the Galaxy S26: A Second NFC Antenna
What’s Changing?
According to multiple industry sources cited by ETNews, Samsung is expected to:
- Retain the existing NFC coil in the current location
- Add a second NFC antenna near the top of the device
- Aim for a dual-antenna setup similar to what some other Android manufacturers have adopted
This setup will ensure stronger signal detection, better orientation flexibility, and a more iPhone-like user experience.
Why Didn’t Samsung Implement This Earlier?
One major reason appears to be Apple’s patents on top-mounted NFC antennas and associated contactless payment technology. Samsung reportedly had to spend a significant amount of time circumventing these patents, which delayed implementation.
How Will It Improve the User Experience in India?
1. Simpler UPI NFC Payments
Indian consumers are increasingly embracing UPI with NFC support. Several platforms, including Google Pay and Samsung Wallet, have started offering Tap & Pay features at select PoS terminals.
With the new antenna:
- Users can tap the top of their phone just like on iPhones
- No need to twist or rotate the phone awkwardly
- Fewer failed transactions due to poor NFC detection
2. Better Compatibility at Indian Retail Stores
Most Indian shops and malls use standardized NFC PoS terminals, which are built assuming the NFC antenna is near the top (as on iPhones). With Samsung now aligning its hardware accordingly, compatibility and success rates will greatly improve.
A Comparison with Apple’s Tap-to-Pay System
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S26 (Expected) | Apple iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| NFC Antenna Location | Dual: Mid and Top | Top |
| Payment Failure Rate | Reduced with new design | Very Low |
| Setup Complexity | Simple (Tap with top) | Very Simple |
| Patent-Related Delays | Yes | N/A |
| UPI NFC Support in India | Via Google Pay, Samsung Pay | Via Apple Pay (limited in India) |
Impact on Samsung Pay and Google Pay in India
As Samsung continues to localize its offerings for the Indian market, the introduction of dual NFC antennas will give its payment apps a boost. Users of Samsung Pay (via Samsung Wallet) can expect:
- Faster recognition at payment terminals
- Improved support for Tap & Pay UPI options
- Higher success rates during busy hours in metro cities
Will All Galaxy S26 Models Have the New Antenna?
At the moment, Samsung has not officially confirmed whether:
- The entire S26 lineup (S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra) will feature the change
- Only select models (like the Ultra) will get the dual antenna
- Mid-range and budget Galaxy A-series devices will follow this design
Design changes are reportedly still under consideration, and Samsung is expected to finalize decisions closer to the launch, likely in early 2026.
What About Other Android Brands?
Several Android phones like OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Google Pixel have started experimenting with better NFC coil placement. However, very few offer dual antenna setups — a gap Samsung could fill with the Galaxy S26, giving it a technical edge in both premium and utility features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the main NFC problem Samsung is fixing in the Galaxy S26?
Ans. Samsung is expected to add a new NFC antenna at the top of the device to solve inconsistent tap locations during contactless payments.
Q2. Why is this update important for Indian users?
Ans. It will make UPI Tap & Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay transactions smoother and more reliable at Indian PoS machines.
Q3. Does the iPhone have this feature already?
Ans. Yes, iPhones have long had a top-mounted NFC antenna, making tap-based payments seamless.
Q4. Will this change come to mid-range Samsung phones?
Ans. There is no confirmation yet. The change is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 flagship series.
Q5. When will the Samsung Galaxy S26 launch in India?
Ans. The official launch is expected in early 2026, although exact dates are yet to be confirmed.
Q6. Can I use Tap & Pay with UPI in India on Samsung phones?
Ans. Yes, if your bank and payment app (like Google Pay) support UPI NFC features and your device has NFC capability.
Q7. Where can I check the NFC placement on my current Samsung phone?
Ans. Samsung has a dedicated guide on its website showing NFC detection areas for each device. Visit: https://www.samsung.com/in/
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series could mark a significant usability upgrade for Indian users who depend on contactless payments. By finally addressing the NFC coil placement issue, Samsung aims to streamline the Tap & Pay experience, reduce transaction failures, and match the convenience that iPhone users have long enjoyed.
For a country where digital payments and UPI adoption are at an all-time high, this small yet important hardware change may significantly improve real-world user satisfaction.
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