Samsung is rethinking how premium smartphones are bought in India. With flagship prices steadily crossing the Rs 1 lakh mark, the company has introduced a new ownership model called Galaxy Forever, aimed at making its high-end Galaxy devices more accessible without the burden of a full upfront payment.

Instead of a traditional purchase, the program offers a structured upgrade path with assured buyback value, allowing users to pay only a portion of the device cost initially and decide later whether to upgrade, return, or keep the device. This trend is already present in western markets like the United States, Canada, Europe, etc., and Samsung is bringing this model to India to offer a seamless upgrade experience. Let’s understand the details of the Galaxy Forever program and see if its worth for you.

Samsung’s Galaxy Forever Program Explained

At its core, the Galaxy Forever program is designed to reduce the upfront cost of owning a flagship Galaxy smartphone. Under this plan, buyers pay approximately 50% of the device price through a 12-month no-cost EMI plan. The customer can keep and use the device for a 12-month period, after which Samsung guarantees a buyback value at the end.

After one year, users are given three choices:

• Upgrade to a new Galaxy flagship by returning the current device.
• Return the device without upgrading (No questions asked).
• Retain the device by paying the remaining balance.

If you opt for the Galaxy Forever program, you can pay in EMIs by using either your credit card or by using Samsung Finance+. After completing 12-months, you can retain the device by paying the remaining 50% balance amount, or choose between return and upgrade.

Devices purchased under this program also come bundled with Samsung Care+ worth Rs 13,999, which offers accidental liquid damage protection with zero deductibles. In simple words, your device gets extra protection against mishaps, without even paying full price for the phone.

Samsung also mentions that it will offer a No Questions Asked return policy. This will allow customers to return the device after one year without any hassle.

Devices Eligible Under Samsung’s Galaxy Forever Program

Samsung is currently positioning its Galaxy Forever program around its premium flagships, starting with the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the Galaxy S26 Plus. Note that the base variant Galaxy S26 is not included at the moment. The company has not shared any details on whether this program will be extended to other flagships, such as the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip Series.

You can enrol in the Galaxy Forever program on Samsung.com or at any Samsung Experience Store across India. 

Galaxy Forever Program Payment Schedule

Should You Get the Galaxy Forever Program

The Galaxy Forever program makes the most sense for someone who prefers upgrading to the latest flagship every year without worrying about resale value. It is particularly suited for those who upgrade frequently, prefer predictable monthly payments over a high upfront cost, and want to avoid the hassle of selling their old device. For such users, the program offers clear convenience by streamlining both ownership and upgrade cycles.

It also appeals to buyers who want access to premium devices but are hesitant to commit to their full price immediately. The assured buyback helps remove uncertainty around depreciation, which is often a concern in the resale market, making the overall ownership experience more predictable.

The Disadvantages

While the program simplifies ownership, it is not without trade-offs. One of the key limitations is that there is no full ownership upfront, as users only pay a portion of the device cost initially. The full ownership remains conditional unless the remaining balance is cleared, which means you cannot sell or dispose of the device within the contract period. Additionally, the guaranteed buyback is subject to the device being in acceptable condition, which means any damage could lead to deductions or impact the final value.

The program also tends to create a degree of ecosystem lock-in, as it encourages users to stay within Samsung’s upgrade cycle rather than switching brands. On top of that, it offers limited flexibility in terms of when and how users can exit the plan without financial implications. Hence, you won’t be able to smoothly shift to a new phone (Samsung or non-Samsung) within the 12-month period.

FAQs

Q. Do I own the phone under the Galaxy Forever program?

You partially own the device during the 12-month period. Full ownership is granted only if you choose to pay the remaining amount after the tenure.

Q. What happens if I damage the phone before returning it?

The buyback value depends on the device’s condition. Significant damage may lead to deductions or impact your ability to return the device under the program terms.

Q. Can I sell the phone within the 12-month period?

No, you cannot sell the phone within the 12-month period of the Galaxy Forever program.

Wrapping Up

Samsung’s Galaxy Forever program reflects a broader shift in the smartphone industry as users look towards premium options. Instead of owning the device, you are essentially renting the phone, with an option to either retain or return it. It also gives you the flexibility of paying in EMIs while you can actually use the device. If you are someone who wants to experience the latest Samsung flagship each year, then this program makes complete sense. For users who want flexibility, the program may not look as attractive.

You may also like to read:

Have any questions related to our how-to guides, or anything in the world of technology? Check out our new GadgetsToUse AI Chatbot for free, powered by ChatGPT.

You can also follow us for instant tech news at Google News or for tips and tricks, smartphones & gadgets reviews, join the GadgetsToUse Telegram Group, or subscribe to the GadgetsToUse Youtube Channel for the latest review videos.