Samsung galaxy s26 ultra: disappointment creeps in despite hype

A month after its unveiling, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn't the revolutionary upgrade many anticipated. Despite strong initial sales, a recent poll reveals a significant wave of disappointment among consumers.

Titanium gone, s pen's bluetooth still missing

The shift to an aluminum frame – a cost-saving measure, likely driven by rising RAM prices – feels like a downgrade for a $1,300 device. The continued absence of Bluetooth support for the S Pen, a feature sorely missed after last year's removal, further dampens enthusiasm. While the display boasts improved brightness, privacy screen functionality noticeably reduces resolution.

Camera upgrades are incremental: a slightly wider aperture on the 5x telephoto lens and a bump in the main sensor's megapixel count. However, the lack of an upgraded 3x telephoto lens left many wanting more.

Battery remains stagnant, magsafe absent

The biggest letdown? The same 5,000 mAh battery found in previous Ultra models. Competitors like OnePlus and Xiaomi have significantly increased battery capacities, creating a void Samsung failed to fill. The absence of MagSafe charging adds to the frustration.

There are bright spots. The new privacy display offers a welcome level of screen protection, and the wired charging speed jumps to 60W. AI-powered photo enhancements and a new audio eraser tool show promise. The software introduces a useful horizontal image merging feature and the Now Nudge assistant.

For owners of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, upgrading seems unnecessary. Those with older models might find the S26 Ultra a worthwhile investment. But, the overall feeling is one of missed opportunity.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra doesn't reinvent the wheel; it refines it—but not enough to justify the premium price tag for many.