Turkcell and Samsung have announced a strategic partnership to conduct joint R&D and testing activities focused on 5G technologies in Turkey. The initiative, revealed at Samsung’s production facility in Çerkezköy, Tekirdağ, marks a significant step toward expanding 5G accessibility and adoption in the country.
According to a statement from Turkcell, the partnership—first introduced at Mobile World Congress (MWC)—aims to boost the usage of 5G-compatible smartphones in Turkey and bring 5G technology to a broader audience. The collaboration will now enter a new phase involving local production and technical development.
100,000 Locally Produced 5G Smartphones
As part of the agreement, Samsung will produce 100,000 units of the 5G-enabled Galaxy A26 (128GB) model exclusively for Turkcell in Turkey. These devices will come pre-installed with Turkcell’s digital applications including BiP, TV+, fizy, and lifebox, and will be available with exclusive offers through Turkcell stores and the Turkcell Pasaj platform.
Benefits include:
- Up to 12-month installment options
- 3-month free TV+ membership
- 20 GB of free internet valid for one month
The Galaxy A26 features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, Exynos 1380 processor, 6 GB RAM, and 128 GB internal storage. The triple rear camera setup includes a 50 MP main lens, 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens, along with a 13 MP front camera. The device is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery for all-day performance.
Expanding 5G Ecosystem Through R&D
Turkcell CEO Ali Taha Koç emphasized that the collaboration goes beyond device production, highlighting its significance in making 5G accessible to all:
“The local production of 100,000 Samsung Galaxy A26 5G devices, equipped with Turkcell’s digital applications, is a strong indication of our support for domestic manufacturing. Alongside Samsung, we will also work on the development and application areas of 5G technology in Turkey.”
Koç added that Turkcell continues to work tirelessly to bring the latest technologies to Turkey under the most favorable conditions for customers.
Samsung: Committed to Turkey’s 5G Infrastructure
Samsung Turkey CEO Jeff Jo reaffirmed the company’s dedication to advancing 5G technology in the country:
“All Galaxy devices are 5G-compatible and enhanced with artificial intelligence technologies. Through this strategic collaboration, we aim to make 5G-supported Galaxy devices more accessible to everyone in Turkey.”
Jo also announced Samsung’s readiness to invest in Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technologies, enabling local integration of 5G network infrastructure:
“We are committed to supporting Turkey’s domestic 5G ecosystem and look forward to expanding our partnership with Turkcell to reach even broader audiences.”
This partnership not only accelerates the digital transformation of Turkey’s mobile landscape but also strengthens local technology manufacturing and innovation.
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök