Samsung Boosts Startup Innovation with 2026 Mobile Advance Programme Expansion

Global tech giant Samsung is strengthening its commitment to innovation in India by launching the 2026 edition of its Mobile Advance (SMA) programme. The initiative aims to support deep-tech startups and integrate their innovations into Samsung’s global mobile ecosystem.

Samsung Launches 2026 Edition of Mobile Advance Programme

Samsung has announced the rollout of the 2026 edition of its Samsung Mobile Advance (SMA) programme, a startup incubation initiative focused on next-generation mobile technologies.

The programme is being driven by Samsung’s research and development centres in Bengaluru and Noida, which play a key role in the company’s global innovation strategy. Through SMA, Samsung aims to create a bridge between emerging startups and its expansive mobile ecosystem.

This initiative is part of Samsung’s broader open innovation approach, which seeks to combine internal research capabilities with external entrepreneurial talent to accelerate technological advancements.

Focus Areas: AI, XR, Security and Beyond

The 2026 edition of SMA will target a wide range of advanced technology domains.

Key focus areas include:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Extended Reality (XR)
• Mobile security
• Digital health solutions
• Camera innovations
• Audio technologies
• Wearable devices

By covering multiple aspects of the mobile ecosystem, the programme aims to foster innovations that can enhance user experiences across smartphones, tablets, and connected devices.

This diversified approach reflects the evolving nature of mobile technology, where integration across hardware and software platforms is becoming increasingly important.

Strengthening Open Innovation Ecosystem

Samsung’s Mobile Advance programme is a key pillar of its open innovation strategy.

According to Mohan Rao Goli, Managing Director and Corporate Vice President at Samsung R&D Institute India, Bengaluru, the initiative is designed to bring together the creativity of startups with Samsung’s global research capabilities.

He emphasized that the programme aims to build long-term partnerships that go beyond short-term collaboration. By nurturing innovative ideas and scaling them globally, Samsung seeks to create impactful solutions that redefine mobile experiences.

Similarly, Kyungyun Roo, Managing Director at Samsung R&D Institute India, Noida, highlighted the importance of aligning technological and cultural synergies between Samsung and participating startups.

A Platform for Indian Startups to Scale Globally

The SMA programme is open to startups across India, offering them a unique opportunity to collaborate with a global technology leader.

By integrating startup innovations into its ecosystem, Samsung provides access to:

• Advanced R&D infrastructure
• Global distribution networks
• Technical mentorship and guidance

This enables startups to scale their solutions beyond local markets and reach a global audience.

The programme also focuses on identifying high-potential startups that can contribute to the future of mobile technology.

Grant-Based Funding Model Without Equity

One of the standout features of the SMA programme is its funding structure.

Launched in India in 2023, the initiative offers grant funding of up to $50,000 to support proof-of-concept (PoC) development. Importantly, this funding is provided without requiring equity or ownership from participating startups.

This approach allows startups to retain full control over their innovations while benefiting from Samsung’s resources and expertise.

The no-equity model has been widely appreciated in the startup ecosystem, as it reduces financial pressure and encourages experimentation and innovation.

Integration with Samsung’s Global Mobile Ecosystem

A key objective of the SMA programme is to ensure seamless integration of startup innovations into Samsung’s mobile ecosystem.

This includes compatibility with:

• Smartphones and tablets
• Wearable devices
• Connected platforms and services

By embedding new technologies into its product lineup, Samsung aims to enhance user experiences and maintain its competitive edge in the global market.

This integration also ensures that startup solutions are tested and validated at scale, increasing their commercial viability.

India as a Strategic Innovation Hub

Samsung’s focus on India for the SMA programme underscores the country’s growing importance as a global innovation hub.

With a thriving startup ecosystem and a large pool of engineering talent, India offers a fertile ground for technological advancements.

Samsung’s R&D centres in Bengaluru and Noida are among its largest globally, contributing significantly to the company’s research output.

By leveraging local talent and innovation, Samsung aims to strengthen its position in both domestic and international markets.

Driving the Future of Mobile Experiences

The SMA programme is aligned with Samsung’s vision of shaping the future of mobile technology.

As smartphones evolve into multi-functional devices integrating AI, augmented reality, and health monitoring, the need for continuous innovation becomes critical.

By collaborating with startups, Samsung can tap into fresh ideas and emerging technologies that may not originate within traditional corporate structures.

This collaborative approach enables faster development cycles and more diverse solutions.

Impact on Startup Ecosystem and Industry

The expansion of the SMA programme is expected to have a positive impact on India’s startup ecosystem.

Key benefits include:

• Increased funding opportunities for deep-tech startups
• Access to global markets and resources
• Enhanced collaboration between industry and startups

For the broader technology industry, such initiatives promote innovation and competition, driving advancements in mobile technology.

Future Outlook: Expanding Innovation Partnerships

Looking ahead, Samsung is likely to continue expanding its open innovation initiatives.

The success of the SMA programme could lead to:

• Increased participation from startups
• Larger funding pools
• Deeper integration of emerging technologies

As the mobile technology landscape continues to evolve, partnerships between corporations and startups will play a crucial role in shaping the future.

Conclusion

The launch of the 2026 edition of Samsung Mobile Advance highlights Samsung’s commitment to fostering innovation through collaboration. By providing funding, mentorship, and access to its global ecosystem, the programme empowers startups to develop and scale cutting-edge technologies. As India continues to emerge as a key innovation hub, initiatives like SMA are set to play a vital role in driving the next wave of technological advancements in the mobile industry.