Samsung Electronics Co. is reportedly in advanced talks with Barclays PLC to launch a co-branded credit card in the U.S., a move that could intensify competition with Apple Inc.’s financial offerings. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the South Korean tech giant aims to introduce a Visa-powered card that integrates with its Samsung Wallet, offering cashback rewards redeemable for Samsung products or at partner stores.

This development comes as Samsung seeks to expand its ecosystem beyond hardware into financial services, mirroring Apple’s successful foray with the Apple Card. Industry insiders suggest the card could debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, potentially boosting Samsung’s appliance sales through tied incentives.

A Strategic Partnership Takes Shape

The partnership with Barclays, a British bank with a strong U.S. presence, would mark Samsung’s first major credit card offering in the American market. Android Authority reports that negotiations have extended longer than typical, but an announcement might occur before year’s end. The card is expected to run on Visa Inc.’s network, providing broad acceptance and seamless integration with Samsung’s digital wallet.

Beyond the credit card, Samsung is exploring additional financial products, including digital prepaid accounts, high-yield savings options, and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services. These initiatives aim to transform Samsung Wallet into a comprehensive financial hub, similar to Apple Wallet, as detailed in coverage by NotebookCheck.net.

Rivaling Apple’s Ecosystem Dominance

Apple’s Card, launched in 2019 with Goldman Sachs Group Inc., has set a high bar with features like daily cashback and no fees, amassing millions of users. Samsung’s rumored card would offer comparable cashback, deposited directly into users’ Samsung accounts for use on devices or services, according to Android Police. This could appeal to Galaxy loyalists seeking integrated rewards.

However, Samsung faces challenges in a crowded U.S. credit market. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) from users like PCMag highlight the rumor’s buzz, with one noting, ‘The Korean brand is rumored to be partnering with UK bank Barclays to create its own credit card running on Visa’s network.’ Such sentiment underscores growing anticipation among tech enthusiasts.

Market Implications and Consumer Appeal

The move aligns with Samsung’s broader strategy to deepen user engagement. As reported by PCMag, the card could drive sales of Samsung’s appliances and electronics by linking rewards to purchases. In South Korea, Samsung already offers credit cards, providing a blueprint for U.S. expansion.

Analysts point to potential synergies with Samsung’s existing services. Daily Mail Online describes it as ‘a new battle with Apple,’ emphasizing Samsung’s aim to bring popular Korean features stateside. Recent X posts from sources like First Squawk confirm advanced talks, stating, ‘SOUTH-KOREAN TECH GIANT Samsung Electronics AND BRITISH BANK Barclays plc IN ADVANCED TALKS TO LAUNCH A U.S. CONSUMER CREDIT CARD: WSJ.’

Regulatory and Competitive Hurdles

Launching in the U.S. involves navigating strict financial regulations. Barclays’ experience with cards like the Apple Rewards card positions it well, but integration with Samsung’s tech must ensure data security. GSMArena.com notes Samsung’s existing cards in other regions, suggesting a tested model adaptable to U.S. consumers.

Competition extends beyond Apple; players like Google Pay and fintechs offer similar services. Yet, Samsung’s hardware dominance could give it an edge, as cashback tied to ecosystem purchases might retain users, per insights from SamMobile.

Broader Financial Ambitions

Samsung’s plans include savings products to rival Apple’s high-yield offerings. The Wall Street Journal highlights how these could strengthen Samsung’s U.S. presence, where it lags in financial services compared to hardware sales.

X discussions reflect industry excitement, with Market Rebellion posting about Visa’s involvement: ‘$V Reportedly Visa in talks to provide network for new Samsung US credit card with Barclays – WSJ.’ This underscores the card’s potential to disrupt the market.

Looking Ahead to Launch

If finalized, the card could launch by February 2026, coinciding with Samsung’s flagship phone unveilings. TipRanks.com reports on the talks, citing people familiar: ‘Samsung is in advanced talks with Barclays to launch a consumer credit card in the U.S.’

For industry insiders, this signals a shift toward tech-finance convergence, potentially reshaping loyalty programs and consumer spending in tech ecosystems.