Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Top 7 Upgrades To Look Out For
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to pack refinements in performance, display tech, camera software, and design language while keeping the core formula intact.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is gearing up for a late February launch, with the Galaxy S26 Ultra drawing the most buzz as Samsung’s top flagship. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to pack refinements in performance, display tech, camera software, and design language while keeping the core formula intact.
Here are the top upgrades to expect in the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
1. Chipset And Performance
Samsung is shifting strategy by using its own Exynos 2600 chipset in select markets (alongside Qualcomm options). Built on a 2nm process — the first for a smartphone — this chipset is expected to deliver meaningful improvements in speed and battery efficiency.
2. Design
The Ultra series has seen little change since the S22 Ultra, but the S26 Ultra will bring a major refresh: a unified camera module inspired by the Galaxy Z Fold 7, plus softer, more rounded corners for a modern feel.
3. Camera
The rear camera set of the S26 Ultra will likely stay similar to its predecessor — 200MP main, 50MP ultrawide, 12MP 3x telephoto, and 50MP 5x periscope. However, enhanced image processing for more accurate colours and natural skin tones is expected. The selfie camera is tipped to upgrade to a larger 4mm punch-hole, widening the field of view from around 80° to about 85° for improved group shots and vlogging.
4. Display
Significant upgrades are expected in the display department. The S26 Ultra is anticipated to debut Samsung’s M14 OLED material for higher peak brightness, improved power efficiency, and longer lifespan. It will keep the 6.9-inch QHD+ panel with 120Hz adaptive refresh. Other enhancements include COE technology to minimise glare, a refined anti-reflective coating, and an AI-driven privacy screen that blocks side-angle viewing.
5. Battery
Battery capacity in the S26 Ultra may rise modestly to 5,200mAh (from 5,000mAh), though earlier rumours suggested 5,400–5,500mAh.
6. Charging
Wireless charging will likely adopt the newer Qi2.2 standard with built-in magnets for better efficiency.
7. Build And Finish
The titanium frame from the S25 Ultra may give way to aluminium, potentially allowing for bolder, more vibrant finishes and better thermal performance. Leaked colours for the S26 Ultra include Black Shadow, White Shadow, Ultraviolet, and Galactic Blue.
