TL;DR
The writer, who had mixed feelings about the Galaxy S25 Ultra, says the Galaxy S26 Ultra could succeed without a radical redesign if Samsung stacks several modest but meaningful updates. Rumors point to a togglable privacy display, faster 60W charging, minor display and camera tweaks, and One UI 8.5, but none of these changes are confirmed.
What happened
The author revisits frustrations felt at the Galaxy S25 Ultra's launch, noting he eventually found the phone excellent despite initial shortcomings. Current chatter around the Galaxy S26 Ultra suggests Samsung may again favor incremental updates rather than a sweeping redesign, which has disappointed some fans. Still, the writer argues that a collection of smaller, well-executed changes could make the S26 Ultra feel distinct from its predecessor. Leaked details and rumors include a built-in, togglable privacy shield for the display, a possible larger 5,500mAh battery or, more plausibly, faster 60W wired charging, and software refinements under One UI 8.5. Camera hardware is expected to be largely unchanged, though a 24MP mode and UI improvements are mentioned. Samsung’s shift in thinking with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is cited as evidence the company knows when to move beyond incremental tweaks. A late-February announcement and concerns about pricing above $1,400 are also part of the current discussion.
Why it matters
- Flagship buyers are sensitive to perceived year-over-year value; small, tangible improvements can affect purchase decisions.
- Features like a togglable privacy shield and faster charging would change everyday usability without requiring a dramatic design shift.
- If Samsung prices the S26 Ultra above $1,400 while delivering only incremental upgrades, consumer disappointment could increase.
- Software refinements in One UI 8.5 could enhance the overall experience even with modest hardware changes.
Key facts
- Author previously criticized the Galaxy S25 Ultra at launch but warmed to it over time.
- Many reports claim the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be similar to the S25 Ultra rather than a major redesign.
- Leaked features include a potential built-in, togglable privacy shield for the display.
- Rumors suggest Samsung may adopt faster wired charging around 60W; a 5,500mAh battery has also been mentioned.
- Camera hardware is reportedly not getting major sensor upgrades, though a 24MP shooting mode is rumored via Camera Assist settings.
- One UI 8.5 is expected to arrive and may bring user-facing refinements for the S26 Ultra.
- An announcement later than Samsung’s typical window—possibly late February—is rumored.
- There is concern the phone could cost north of $1,400 if changes feel insufficient.
What to watch next
- Whether a built-in, togglable privacy shield for the display is officially confirmed (not confirmed in the source).
- Official specifications for battery capacity and wired charging speed, including any confirmation of 60W charging (not confirmed in the source).
- Details and release timing for One UI 8.5 and how much of its experience will debut on the S26 Ultra (not confirmed in the source).
- Any announced camera software or app changes, and whether the 24MP mode appears in final firmware (not confirmed in the source).
Quick glossary
- One UI: Samsung’s custom Android interface that modifies the system UI and apps to provide a distinct user experience.
- mAh (milliampere-hour): A unit that roughly indicates a battery’s energy storage capacity; higher numbers generally suggest longer potential runtime.
- Watt (W) charging: A measure of power delivered during wired charging; higher wattage can enable faster battery top-ups.
- Telephoto lens: A camera lens designed for magnifying distant subjects, commonly used for optical zoom on smartphones.
- Privacy shield (display): A screen feature or accessory that reduces viewing angles so onlookers cannot easily see content; can be software- or hardware-based.
Reader FAQ
Is the Galaxy S26 Ultra getting a major redesign?
Reports indicate Samsung is likely to make incremental changes rather than a sweeping redesign; not confirmed in the source.
Will the S26 Ultra include a privacy display feature?
Leaks mention a built-in, togglable privacy shield for the display, but this has not been officially confirmed in the source.
How much faster will charging be?
Rumors point to around 60W wired charging; this figure is unconfirmed in the source.
When will Samsung announce the Galaxy S26 Ultra?
A later-than-usual release window, possibly in late February, is rumored but not confirmed in the source.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra only needs one thing to succeed By Stephen Radochia Published 31 minutes ago When Mitsubishi made your first cellphone, you know you’ve been around a…
Sources
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