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Samsung tops Canstar Blue's 2026 phone satisfaction list

Thu, 12th Feb 2026

Samsung has won Canstar Blue's 2026 Most Satisfied Customers Award for Smartphones in Australia, based on a national survey of recent smartphone buyers.

The award is based on responses from more than 1,100 Australians who bought a new smartphone within the past two years. Participants rated brands for durability, design, camera quality, battery and charging performance, user friendliness, value for money, and overall satisfaction.

The result returns Samsung to the top spot in Canstar Blue's smartphone satisfaction rankings. The company previously won the same award in 2023 and 2024.

Samsung also received separate recognition from Canstar in 2025, winning the Innovation Excellence Award for glare-free TV technology.

Survey Findings

Canstar Blue said cost-of-living pressures are influencing phone buying decisions across Australia, with price the most important factor when choosing a new handset. It noted that price affects both when people upgrade and the type of device they choose.

Canstar Blue highlighted Samsung's performance across multiple categories, citing strong ratings for perceived value, durability, and battery life.

The research also pointed to the role of artificial intelligence features in the customer experience. Canstar Blue said these features have changed how Australians work, create, and stay connected.

Company Response

Samsung described the award as a reflection of customer sentiment and its product direction in an increasingly competitive market.

"This latest accolade once again showcases Samsung's commitment to driving meaningful innovation that's shaped by real customers' needs, and we're proud to be honoured with this customer satisfaction award," said Eric Chou, Vice President of Mobile eXperience, Samsung Australia.

Chou said competition is increasingly focused on both hardware and software.

"Our goal is to redefine what's possible when it comes to mobile hardware and software, improving convenience and functionality, and making sure our whole range of products moves to match the evolving needs of Australians. In an increasingly competitive smartphone market, we're thrilled to see that our customers are overwhelmingly happy with their experience when using a Samsung phone," Chou said.

Market Context

The Australian smartphone market has faced a mix of pricing pressure, longer replacement cycles, and higher expectations for device longevity. Manufacturers have increased their focus on battery performance, durability, and software features as shoppers weigh premium models against lower-priced alternatives.

In commentary on this year's award, Canstar Blue linked its findings to broader household budget concerns, saying consumers are more price-conscious at the point of purchase and that pricing affects the timing of upgrades.

Canstar Blue positioned the award as recognition of Samsung's performance across the survey categories and how those scores align with current consumer preferences.

"Samsung has won over public opinion to secure Canstar's 2026 Most Satisfied Customers Award for Smartphones," said Tara Donnelly, Managing Editor, Utilities, Canstar Blue.

"Canstar's research shows the cost of living is influencing purchasing decisions, with price the most important factor when choosing a new phone - shaping both the timing of phone upgrades and the type of device they buy," Donnelly said.

Donnelly said Samsung delivered strong results, including in areas tied to longer-term ownership.

"Australians gave Samsung strong ratings across the board, identified for offering value and with standout performance in durability and battery life - alongside its AI features that have transformed how Australians work, create and stay connected. The award gives credit to Samsung's ability to deliver life-changing innovation while meeting consumers' expectations for long-term value," Donnelly said.

Product Line-up

Samsung pointed to smartphone releases across its ranges in 2025, including new devices in the Galaxy S and Galaxy Z series. It also highlighted the Galaxy A series, which it described as offering functionality at a more accessible price point.

The company is preparing for its next Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, where it plans to discuss upcoming products linked to the Galaxy S line. Samsung said the next chapter for its smartphone range will begin with that event.