Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra continues the legacy of its Ultra series with a series of subtle but thoughtful improvements. While the device retains the familiar feel of Samsung’s high-end smartphones, it introduces a range of refinements that enhance both usability and performance. The phone is slightly thinner and lighter than its predecessor, with a new frame made of armour-grade aluminium and a more durable front glass. These changes make the S26 Ultra more comfortable to hold, even though it remains a large device. The redesigned camera layout places all lenses within a raised island on the back, improving durability but introducing a slight wobble when the phone rests on a surface.

Design Enhancements and Durability

The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s design changes are not just about aesthetics. The phone now uses a more refined aluminium frame and a tougher front glass, which should improve its resistance to everyday wear and tear. The overall build feels solid and well-assembled, with no signs of compromise in its construction. The slightly thinner and lighter body makes it more ergonomic, particularly for users who find larger phones challenging to handle. However, the new camera layout, while more durable, introduces a small but noticeable wobble when the phone is placed on a flat surface. This could be a minor inconvenience for users who frequently place their phone on tables or desks.

The S Pen remains a core feature of the S26 Ultra, with a redesigned slot that allows for smoother insertion and removal. The stylus is still ideal for note-taking and sketching, and Samsung has shifted its focus toward productivity features rather than the previously included remote camera controls. The phone retains its IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions without damage.

Display and Privacy Features

Samsung equips the S26 Ultra with a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels. The display’s refresh rate dynamically adjusts between 1Hz and 120Hz based on the content being viewed, which helps conserve battery life without compromising performance. The display’s brightness is a standout feature, making it easy to read in bright environments. Colours are vivid, though Samsung includes multiple display profiles for users who prefer a more neutral look.

The new Privacy Display feature is the headline addition for 2024. When enabled, the screen reduces visibility from side angles while maintaining a clear view when looking directly at the phone. This feature can be applied across the entire display or limited to specific apps and notifications. The trade-off is a slight drop in contrast and vibrancy when Privacy Display is active, which some users may find distracting unless they need it in public spaces.

The display’s performance is impressive, but the Privacy Display’s impact on visual quality may be a consideration for some users. For those who frequently use their phones in public, the feature could be a valuable addition, even if it comes with a small visual compromise.

Camera System and Performance

The Galaxy S26 Ultra retains its four-camera setup on the back, featuring a 200-megapixel main sensor, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and two telephoto lenses with 3x and 5x optical zoom. The main and 5x cameras have been improved with brighter optics, allowing for better performance in low-light conditions. Daylight photography results in detailed images with strong dynamic range, and colours remain vibrant, though sometimes saturated compared to more neutral profiles.

Low-light performance has seen a noticeable improvement, with sharper images and fewer motion artifacts compared to previous models. The zoom capabilities remain a highlight, with the 5x lens delivering sharp results at moderate distances. Digital zoom extends the reach further, though it is best suited for reference shots rather than detailed photography. The camera app includes a range of modes, which may feel overwhelming at first but offer flexibility for advanced users. Expert RAW is still available for those who want full control over exposure and editing.

Video recording has also seen small but meaningful improvements, with better stabilization during movement and cleaner night footage. The S26 Ultra’s camera system continues to be one of the strongest in the Android ecosystem, even with incremental upgrades this year.

Inside the S26 Ultra is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, customised for Samsung. This chip delivers strong performance across everyday tasks, with quick app launches and smooth multitasking. Demanding games run without difficulty, and frame rates remain stable. The phone offers either 12GB or 16GB of RAM depending on the storage configuration, with a redesigned vapour chamber cooling system improving thermal performance.

The S26 Ultra runs on Android 16 with Samsung’s One UI 8.5 interface. The software includes several AI-driven features that assist with content summarisation, notification management, and daily tasks. These features operate in the background, reducing the need for constant user interaction. Samsung also promises seven years of software and security updates, one of the longest support periods in the smartphone market.

Battery Life and Charging

The S26 Ultra retains a 5,000mAh battery, matching recent Ultra models. However, efficiency improvements extend practical usage, with the phone comfortably lasting a full day under heavy use. Moderate use can stretch the battery life to nearly a day and a half. The battery performs predictably under typical usage scenarios, with minimal issues in reaching the evening without a recharge.

Charging speeds have improved slightly, with wired charging now reaching up to 60W with a compatible adapter. A half-hour charge can restore a large portion of the battery. Wireless charging is still available and supports fast wireless pads, though Samsung does not include a charger in the box.

Software Experience and Ecosystem Integration

One UI continues to evolve, maintaining its feature-rich yet well-organised interface. Multitasking is particularly effective on the large display, with split-screen apps and floating windows allowing the S26 Ultra to function almost like a small tablet. The S Pen complements this approach, with handwritten notes converting into text quickly and screen annotation tools being reliable.

Samsung’s ecosystem integration plays a key role in the S26 Ultra’s appeal. The phone connects smoothly with Galaxy tablets, laptops, and earbuds, creating a cohesive experience for users who rely on multiple Samsung devices. This integration is a major selling point for those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem.

Price and Market Position

The Galaxy S26 Ultra remains at the top of Samsung’s smartphone lineup, offering a complete experience with strong performance, an impressive display, and a reliable camera system. This year’s upgrades are evolutionary rather than major, focusing on refining an already capable device. The introduction of the Privacy Display brings a new concept, while the camera and processor improvements enhance an already strong foundation.

For users upgrading from an older Galaxy model, the changes will feel meaningful. The S26 Ultra continues to be one of the most capable Android smartphones on the market, offering a refined experience without radical change. Its position as a flagship remains secure, with careful refinements that cater to both casual users and power users alike.