Published May 22, 2026 · 4 Min Read

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Two of the most capable flagships of 2025–26 now compete for the same buyer — and the choice is anything but simple. The iPhone 17 brings Apple's A19 chip, a refined dual-camera system, and the latest Apple Intelligence features in a sleek, lightweight frame. The Samsung Galaxy S26 counters with Android 16, Galaxy AI, a versatile triple-camera setup, and the world's first 2 nm chipset. 
 

Whichever you choose, the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card lets you bring either home today on Easy EMIs, without paying the full price upfront.

Overview of the iPhone 17

Apple launched the iPhone 17 in September 2025 as its most accessible flagship yet. It features a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion at 120Hz, the powerful A19 chip, and a redesigned 48MP Dual Fusion camera system. For the first time, the standard iPhone gains an 18MP front camera with landscape support. Built with Ceramic Shield 2 and running iOS 26, the iPhone 17 delivers a polished, complete flagship experience at a more approachable price than its Pro siblings.

Overview of the Samsung Galaxy S26

Samsung launched the Galaxy S26 in February 2026 as a compact, well-rounded flagship built around the world's first 2 nm Exynos 2600 chipset (in India). It offers a 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a refined triple-camera system, and a 4,300 mAh battery — all in a slim, lightweight aluminium and glass body. Running Android 16 with One UI 8.5, it ships with enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities and a commitment to seven years of OS updates, making it one of the most future-ready Android flagships available in India right now.

iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26: Key features

Both phones pack impressive flagship-grade features, but they approach the smartphone experience very differently. Here is a direct comparison of what each device brings to the table.
 

FeatureiPhone 17Samsung Galaxy S26
Operating systemiOS 26 with Apple IntelligenceAndroid 16 with One UI 8.5 and Galaxy AI
AI capabilitiesApple Intelligence — Writing Tools, Clean Up, Image Playground, Live TranslationGalaxy AI — Photo Assist, Live Translate, Circle to Search, Note Assist
Camera system48MP Dual Fusion (wide + ultrawide) + 18MP front; Dual Capture videoTriple rear (50MP + 12MP + 10MP); 12MP front
Zoom capability2x optical zoom3x optical zoom
Display technologyLTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, ProMotionDynamic AMOLED 2X, adaptive 120Hz
Wireless chargingMagSafe 25W / Qi2 25WWireless charging 15W
BiometricsFace IDUltrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor
Software supportiOS updates (Apple's track record: 6+ years)7 years of OS updates (guaranteed)
CustomisationLimited; tightly integrated ecosystemExtensive; open Android platform
Satellite connectivityEmergency SOS and Messages via satelliteNot available

iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26: Key specifications

Both phones share a similar screen size and form factor, but their underlying hardware differs in meaningful ways. Here is a full specification comparison to help you evaluate each device.
 

SpecificationiPhone 17Samsung Galaxy S26
Display size6.3-inch6.3-inch
Display typeLTPO Super Retina XDR OLEDDynamic AMOLED 2X
Resolution~460 ppi2340 x 1080 pixels, 409 ppi
Peak brightness3,000 nits3,000 nits
ChipsetApple A19 (3 nm)Samsung Exynos 2600 (2 nm) — India variant
RAM8GB LPDDR5X12GB
Storage options256GB, 512GB256GB, 512GB
Main camera48MP, f/1.6, wide50MP, f/1.8, wide
Telephoto2x (digital)10MP, 3x optical zoom
Ultrawide48MP, f/2.2, 120°12MP
Front camera18MP, f/1.912MP
Battery3,692 mAh4,300 mAh
Wired charging40W (50% in 20 min)25W
Wireless charging25W MagSafe / Qi215W
Water resistanceIP68 (6 m, 30 min)IP68
Dimensions149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95 mm149.6 x 71.7 x 7.2 mm
Weight177 g167 g

iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26: Price of variants in India

Both phones are available in two storage variants in India. Here is a clear breakdown of pricing across each variant to help you plan your purchase.
 

VariantiPhone 17Samsung Galaxy S26
256GBRs. 82,900Rs. 79,999
512GBRs. 1,02,900Rs. 94,999

Disclaimer: Product features, availability, and prices may differ based on location and time. For the latest and most accurate details, visit a partner store. 

iPhone 17 vs Samsung Galaxy S26: Which one should you choose?

The right choice depends entirely on how you use your phone every day. Both are excellent flagships — the differences lie in ecosystem, camera style, and long-term priorities.

  • Choose the iPhone 17 if you are already in the Apple ecosystem: If you use a Mac, iPad, AirPods, or Apple Watch, the iPhone 17 integrates seamlessly with all of them. Handoff, AirDrop, and iMessage work together in a way Android simply cannot replicate.
  • Choose the Samsung Galaxy S26 if you want more zoom: The Galaxy S26's 3x optical telephoto lens gives it a clear edge for portrait shots and distant subjects — a meaningful advantage if photography is a priority.
  • Choose the iPhone 17 if camera consistency matters: Apple's computational photography delivers excellent results with minimal effort, and the new 48MP ultrawide is a genuine step up for wide-angle shooting.
  • Choose the Samsung Galaxy S26 if you prefer a bigger battery: At 4,300 mAh, the Galaxy S26 holds a notable lead over the iPhone 17's 3,692 mAh, which translates to more comfortable all-day use for heavy users.
  • Choose the Samsung Galaxy S26 if you value Android flexibility: One UI 8.5 offers deep customisation, multi-window multitasking, and app-level controls that iOS does not match — ideal for power users who want full control over their device.

What is a Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card?

The Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card is a pre-approved card loan offer that lets you shop for smartphones, electronics, appliances, and more at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across more than 4,000 cities in India. It offers a limit of up to Rs. 3 lakh and converts your purchases into Easy EMIs with a flexible 3 to 60 months repayment tenure. You do not need a traditional credit card to use it — just your mobile number and OTP to check eligibility and apply instantly.
 

Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If eligible, you can apply instantly and start shopping for your preferred smartphone easily and affordably.

How to buy the iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26 on Easy EMIs using the Insta EMI Card

Buying either flagship on Easy EMIs with the Insta EMI Card is a quick and straightforward process. Follow these steps and your new phone could be in your hands today.

  • Step 1 — Check your eligibility: Visit the Bajaj Finance website or app and check your Insta EMI Card eligibility using your mobile number and OTP. The process takes just a few minutes.
  • Step 2 — Get your Insta EMI Card: If eligible, apply instantly and receive your digital card right away. No physical delivery or waiting period is needed before you can start shopping.
  • Step 3 — Choose your smartphone: Visit any of the 1.5 lakh Bajaj Finance partner stores or an authorised online partner platform. Select your preferred variant of the iPhone 17 or Samsung Galaxy S26.
  • Step 4 — Pick your repayment tenure: At checkout, choose your preferred repayment tenure of 3 to 60 months. Select the duration that keeps your monthly outgo comfortable.
  • Step 5 — Complete your purchase: Pay using your Insta EMI Card, confirm the transaction, and your order is placed. Your smartphone will be delivered directly to your doorstep.

Benefits of using the Insta EMI Card

FeatureDetails
Easy EMIsSplit the cost of your purchase into affordable monthly instalments with minimal interest, making it budget-friendly.
High pre-qualified limitGet up to Rs. 3 lakh card loan offer amount to buy multiple products without upfront stress.
Wide acceptance networkAccepted at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities and major e-commerce platforms.
Flexible repayment tenureChoose a repayment period from 3 to 60 months based on your financial comfort.
Zero down payment offersAvail deals with no upfront payment requirement on select models.
No foreclosure chargesClose your loan early without any penalties or extra fees.
Credit score benefitTimely EMI payments may help strengthen your credit profile and financial health.


Also read: Features and benefits of the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card

Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card

  • Nationality: Indian Citizen.
  • Age: 21 years to 65 years.
  • Credit score: A healthy credit score per Bajaj Finance policies.
  • Income: A steady, regular source of income.
  • Documents: PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, and a cancelled cheque for e-mandate.


Also read: Eligibility criteria for the Insta EMI Card

How to apply for an Insta EMI Card

  • Verify mobile number: Enter your 10-digit mobile number and verify the OTP sent to your phone to initiate the process.
  • Auto-fetch details: Provide your full name and select the option to auto-fetch your details for a faster application experience.
  • Confirm information: Verify your pre-filled personal details carefully and click on the continue button to move to the next stage.
  • Check offer: Review your pre-qualified card loan offer amount and select continue to proceed with the specified limit.
  • Set up wallet: Review your wallet setup details and verify the security OTP to integrate the card with your account.
  • Verify identity: Complete your identity verification process by confirming your current residential address as per the required official records.
  • Pay fee: Make the mandatory one-time joining fee payment of Rs. 530 through the secure digital payment gateway provided.
  • View card: Access and view your new digital card details instantly on the Bajaj Finance application after the successful payment.
     

Also read: How to apply for the Insta EMI Card
 

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Frequently asked questions

Which is better — the iPhone 17 or the Samsung Galaxy S26?

Both are excellent flagship phones, but the better choice depends on your ecosystem and usage. The iPhone 17 suits Apple ecosystem users who value camera consistency and Apple Intelligence. The Samsung Galaxy S26 offers more RAM, a larger battery, 3x optical zoom, and seven years of guaranteed OS updates — making it a compelling choice for Android-first buyers in India. You can purchase either on Easy EMIs; check your Insta EMI Card eligibility to get started.

Is the Samsung Galaxy S26 faster than the iPhone 17?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 uses the world's first 2 nm Exynos 2600 chip, which delivers strong performance in India. However, the iPhone 17's A19 chip consistently leads on single-core and graphics benchmarks, making it faster for most everyday tasks and gaming workloads. In real-world use, both phones feel fluid and responsive — benchmark differences rarely affect day-to-day performance noticeably.

Does the iPhone 17 support AI features like the Samsung Galaxy S26?

Yes. The iPhone 17 runs Apple Intelligence, which includes Writing Tools, Clean Up, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, and Live Translation. The Samsung Galaxy S26 offers Galaxy AI with Photo Assist, Circle to Search, Note Assist, and Live Translate. Both platforms deliver capable on-device AI — Apple Intelligence prioritises privacy and deep system integration, while Galaxy AI focuses on productivity and camera-driven intelligence.

Is the Samsung Galaxy S26 better for gaming than the iPhone 17?

The iPhone 17 generally outperforms the Galaxy S26 in sustained gaming benchmarks, thanks to the A19 chip's GPU power and Apple's tight hardware-software optimisation. The Galaxy S26's Exynos 2600 handles all major titles smoothly and is a capable gaming chip, but the iPhone 17 holds a consistent edge in frame rates and thermal management during extended gaming sessions.

Should I buy the iPhone 17 or the Samsung Galaxy S26 on EMIs?

Both phones are priced well above Rs. 5,000, so you can purchase either using the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card on Easy EMIs across a flexible 3 to 60 months repayment tenure. Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility before getting started. The iPhone 17 starts at Rs. 82,900 and the Samsung Galaxy S26 at Rs. 79,999 — Easy EMIs make both accessible without straining your monthly budget.

Which phone has a more premium design and build quality — the iPhone 17 or the Samsung Galaxy S26?

Both phones offer a premium build with different materials. The iPhone 17 uses Ceramic Shield 2 on the front with a glass back and aluminium frame, weighing 177 g. The Samsung Galaxy S26 uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2, weighs a lighter 167 g, and measures a slimmer 7.2 mm in thickness. The Galaxy S26 feels more compact in hand; the iPhone 17 carries a more substantial, tactile presence. 

Which phone is better for multitasking and productivity — the iPhone 17 or the Samsung Galaxy S26?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 has the edge here, offering 12GB RAM, multi-window support, DeX compatibility, and One UI 8.5's extensive multitasking tools. It also integrates well with Windows PCs and Samsung tablets. The iPhone 17 manages productivity efficiently with 8GB RAM and iOS 26, but Apple's more controlled environment limits the level of simultaneous app use and customisation that Android power users rely on.

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Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

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