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The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is one of the more notable smartphone releases of the year, particularly from the perspective of the mass market. Flagship devices from Samsung typically attract significant attention, extending beyond brand enthusiasts and technology-focused audiences to include users who may not be considering a purchase. This level of visibility is consistent with the role of the Galaxy S Ultra lineup, which has, over time, influenced broader market trends and served as a reference point for other manufacturers.
It is worth noting that this year Samsung places greater emphasis on AI-driven features and software enhancements rather than significant hardware changes. As a result, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a refreshed design along with updated software capabilities that extend the existing user experience. At the same time, the device retains the core characteristics associated with the Ultra series, including high-performance hardware, a versatile camera system, a broad feature set, and support for the S Pen.
At first glance, some specifications may appear familiar, with certain parameters showing limited changes. However, a closer examination is required to determine how these updates translate into real-world usage and what the device offers in practice.
Read also: All Samsung smartphone reviews on our website
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Specifications
- Display: 6.9″ Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 1440 × 3120 (QHD+), refresh rate 1–120 Hz, brightness up to 2600 nits
- Chipset: CPU Qualcomm SM8850-1-AD Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm) + GPU Adreno 840 (1.3 GHz)
- RAM: 12 / 16 GB
- Storage: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB (UFS 4.0)
- Cameras:
- 200 MP main, f/1.4, 23mm, 1/1.3″, 0.6µm
- 50 MP ultra-wide-angle 120˚, 1/2.5″, 0.7µm
- 50 MP 5× periscope, 111mm, 1/2.52″, 0.7µm
- 10 MP 3× telephoto, f/2.4, 67mm, 1/3.94″, 1.0µm
- Front: 12 MP, f/2.2, 23mm, 1/3.2″, 1.12µm
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- Charging: 60 W wired, 25 W wireless, 4.5 W reverse wireless
- OS: Android 16 + One UI 8.5
- Weight: 214 g
- Water and dust resistance: IP68
- S Pen – integrated into the body
Positioning and Price
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra represents the top-tier model within the Galaxy S lineup from Samsung and is positioned accordingly at the higher end of the price spectrum. The starting price is approximately $1299, reflecting broader industry trends such as rising component costs, increased investment in AI-related infrastructure, and inflation. This pricing level is consistent with other flagship devices in the same category.
Key competitors include the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and, at a somewhat lower price point, the Google Pixel 10 Pro. While the latter may be more affordable, its positioning relative to this model can vary depending on evaluation criteria.
Package Contents
The box of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra includes a standard minimal set of accessories typical of recent flagship devices. The package contains the smartphone itself, a USB-C cable, a SIM tray ejector tool, and documentation. A power adapter is not included, and no protective case is provided, which is consistent with the approach Samsung has followed in recent years.
Read also: Samsung Galaxy S26 Review: Most Compact Flagship with Minimal Changes
Before Testing
For this evaluation, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is used as a replacement for a personal Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which introduces a practical comparison baseline. A key consideration in this context is whether upgrading from a 2023 flagship device is justified. The earlier model remains adequate in terms of performance, display quality, and camera capabilities, although battery degradation has become noticeable over time. As a result, some observations will reflect this upgrade scenario. This perspective is likely representative of a common use case. Transitioning from more recent generations may offer limited benefits, while moving from older devices – such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or earlier – appears more rational from a practical standpoint.
Regarding migration, if you decide to upgrade from an older Samsung device, the process is almost seamless.
I cloned the previous smartphone to the new one using Samsung’s official Smart Switch utility. This option is available during the initial device setup, although data transfer can also be performed later from within the system. The process is notably convenient: Samsung’s ecosystem now provides a level of continuity similar to what is often associated with the Apple iPhone experience. After migration, the new device effectively mirrors the previous one in terms of software state – lock screen wallpaper, home screen setup, installed applications, call history, and media library including photos and screenshots. For data transfer, using a wired connection is preferable, primarily to reduce overall transfer time.
Read also: Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Review: Is It Worth the Price?
Design, Materials, Ergonomics, Build Quality
The build quality of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is consistent with the expectations for a flagship device from Samsung. High-grade materials are used throughout the construction. The frame follows current design trends, featuring a flat profile and being made of reinforced aluminum. The front panel is protected by the next-generation Gorilla Glass Armor 2.
One of the more noticeable changes in the current Galaxy S generation is the shift toward more rounded corners. In previous models, such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the sharper edges contributed to a more distinctive design language, even though they could be less practical in everyday use. The updated approach in the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra reflects a move toward improved ergonomics, while slightly reducing the visual uniqueness that characterized earlier iterations of the series.
In addition, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is slightly thinner than the previous generation. The weight has also been reduced, now measuring 215 g, which represents a modest decrease compared to earlier models.
As a result of these design adjustments, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra appears more refined, particularly from the front. Despite a slight increase in display size, the bezels have been reduced to a minimum. In practice, this makes the device feel more compact than the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, even though the actual screen area is marginally larger.
A brief note on fully flat front glass. I understand this design trend has been around for some time, not just recently. Starting with the S24 Ultra, the manufacturer moved away from curved edges on the display. In my view, this decision is questionable.
First, smartphones with slightly curved displays tend to look more premium. The curvature does not need to be pronounced – just a subtle edge, similar to what was used in the S23 Ultra, felt well-balanced. With the S26 Ultra’s flat display, the front design now resembles many other smartphones, and the increased corner rounding has reduced the distinct, recognizable appearance of the Galaxy S line from the front.
Second, gesture navigation feels more comfortable with a slight screen curvature. In the current flat design, usability is less convenient, particularly when using a case with even small raised bezels around the screen.
Overall, this change reduces both the perceived distinctiveness and, to some extent, the ergonomic experience. It remains to be seen whether curved displays will return to future Galaxy S models.
The back panel is also made of glass (Gorilla Glass Victus 2). There are a few new design changes that are not particularly favorable in my view. The placement of the camera modules, flash, and sensors remains unchanged. However, a raised camera platform has been introduced, and the individual lenses protrude more noticeably from the body. As a result, the device does not sit flat on a table and tends to wobble when used on a flat surface. Using a case slightly improves stability, but it does not fully eliminate the issue.
Due to the protruding camera module, compatibility with most universal magnetic accessories – such as power banks or external storage devices – is reduced. As a result, users are effectively limited to either first-party accessories or third-party products specifically designed to support the S26 Ultra form factor.
The layout of the device’s external elements remains unchanged. Right side: power button and volume rocker.
Left side: no elements. Bottom: USB-C port, SIM tray, speaker grille, and S Pen slot. Top: microphones. Rear panel: four cameras, laser autofocus sensors, and an LED flash.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is a typical premium smartphone with limited objectively justifiable shortcomings. The device is well-assembled and feels solid in hand, while design preferences remain largely subjective. In my view, Samsung’s flagship design is still more distinctive than that of the iPhone, although this year’s iteration introduces a number of minor trade-offs and compromises.
Read also: Samsung Galaxy Fold7 Review: Slim and Lightweight Foldable Smartphone
Display
Smartphone displays have long been a category in which Samsung maintains a clear leadership position. It is not obvious how the company continues to incrementally improve display performance and specifications over time. These improvements are not necessarily dramatic on a year-to-year basis, but the difference between the S23 and S26 generations is noticeable in practice. At the same time, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is listed with essentially identical display specifications.
I do not have the opportunity to compare the S25 and S26 panels directly, so it is possible that they are effectively the same and that the manufacturer has reached practical technological limits where further improvements are minimal or no longer meaningful. It also raises the question of whether additional refinement is necessary if the current performance level is already satisfactory.
There is not much point in describing the display in detail; it is a high-quality 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO panel with a variable refresh rate of 1–120 Hz and QHD+ resolution. By default, however, the display is configured to run at FHD+ resolution to improve power efficiency. It is unclear whether switching to the higher resolution is practically necessary. The difference is likely subtle enough that it would require excellent visual acuity to notice. In my case, this is no longer as easily perceptible as it might have been at a younger age, though it remains an option for users to test themselves.
Peak brightness of up to 2600 nits, along with HDR10+ support, makes the display usable outdoors in bright sunlight without noticeable readability issues or user discomfort. In practice, outdoor usability is very good. That said, I was also able to use the S23 Ultra in similar conditions without significant problems, although there is a measurable improvement in peak brightness and overall visibility on the newer model.
Undoubtedly, one of the main attention-grabbing features of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra this year is the so-called “Privacy Display”. This feature reduces viewing angles by selectively disabling parts of the display pixels. It can be quickly toggled via a shortcut in the quick settings panel. There are two privacy levels available: standard and maximum. At the standard level, users may notice minor changes in color reproduction and image sharpness. At the maximum level, the image becomes more noticeably distorted. In cases where the feature is actually needed to prevent on-screen content from being visible to others, display quality is likely a secondary concern.
Personally, I do not find this feature essential, as I rarely use public transportation and generally do not handle sensitive information on my device. However, the feature is functional and may be a key selling point for users who require this type of privacy control.
It is also worth noting that Privacy Display can be configured in a more granular way – enabled for specific applications, restricted to certain system areas such as authentication screens, or applied only to pop-up notifications. This level of control makes the feature relatively flexible in practical use.
Regarding display settings, this is a standard set of options within the One UI interface. Users can choose between light and dark modes, enable adaptive brightness, and configure motion smoothness (adaptive or standard refresh rate). There are also detailed eye comfort settings, including adaptive color tone, which automatically adjusts color reproduction based on ambient lighting conditions; this is a feature I personally find useful.
Additional options include selecting predefined color profiles (natural or vivid), as well as manual adjustment of color balance and white balance. The system also allows switching screen resolution, hiding the front camera cutout, and enabling accidental touch protection along with touch sensitivity adjustments.
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Performance
The primary driver of performance this year is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, manufactured using a 3 nm process. For the Ultra model, this is the only configuration available, unlike lower-tier variants, where the newer Exynos 2600 (2 nm) may be used depending on the region. CPU performance is reported to be approximately 19% higher compared to its predecessor. The new Adreno 840 GPU also shows a substantial improvement in 3D workloads.
For the first time, single-core performance in Android smartphones appears to be approaching the level of flagship iPhones in synthetic benchmarks. In addition, the chipset demonstrates stable sustained performance under heavy gaming loads, which suggests an effective thermal management system.
In everyday use, the device delivers consistently fast and responsive performance. However, since I do not play games on a smartphone, even previous flagship generations remain sufficiently powerful for my needs, and I do not perceive a meaningful difference compared to devices such as the Galaxy S23 Ultra, which is still very fast. In fact, I deliberately reduce performance in the settings in favor of energy efficiency.
Beyond raw chipset performance, RAM capacity is another important factor. This year, the base configuration includes 12 GB of RAM for models with 256 GB or 512 GB of storage, while the 1 TB variant is equipped with 16 GB of RAM.
In addition, the Galaxy S26 Ultra supports RAM expansion using internal storage, allowing an additional 2 to 12 GB to be allocated. By default, this feature is set to 8 GB. Its practical necessity is debatable; it is likely more relevant for gaming scenarios, where keeping applications in memory while multitasking could be beneficial.
The most noticeable performance improvements of the Galaxy S26 Ultra are primarily reflected in synthetic benchmarks. Accordingly, standard benchmark tests are still included to provide reference results for users who rely on numerical comparisons.
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s cameras
We won’t see any significant technical changes to the camera system either. I think the main improvements here come from the software and AI-based algorithms. Which is entirely to be expected. However, let’s take a look at the modules.
The main wide-angle camera is a 200 MP unit (23 mm), which has been used in the lineup for four years. In the S26 Ultra, it has become slightly brighter due to an increased aperture of f/1.4. As a result, low-light performance shows some improvement, with somewhat better night photography. However, even compared to the S23 Ultra, there is no significant or fundamental upgrade in image quality.
In daylight, the camera performs close to optimally. Key characteristics include fast autofocus, improved highlight control, and a very strong HDR system, which can occasionally be overly aggressive. Detail levels remain high even in the 12 MP output mode. Compared to previous generations, the main camera applies less aggressive sharpening, which results in more natural-looking images. Overall, it is a typical flagship primary camera suitable for most shooting scenarios – effectively a point-and-shoot experience that consistently produces good results.
Next is the 10 MP telephoto module (f/2.4, 67 mm), which handles up to 3× zoom and portrait photography. This is the oldest sensor in the camera system and in some cases can be outperformed by digital zoom from the main camera. However, overall performance remains acceptable and consistent for its intended use. A practical note: if the goal is to achieve a natural background blur (bokeh), it is recommended to disable the “enhanced focus” mode in the camera interface (the flower icon located near the zoom controls).
The periscope telephoto camera is a 50 MP unit (f/2.9, 111 mm) designed for 5× optical zoom. Its capabilities include digital zoom up to 100×, supported by AI-based Super Resolution Zoom processing. In practice, it provides one of the stronger 5× zoom implementations among current smartphones, with usable detail retention even at around 10× magnification.
Finally, the ultrawide camera is a 50 MP module (f/1.9, 120°) used for both ultrawide and macro photography. It replaces the previous 10 MP unit and represents the most noticeable improvement in the camera system. Compared to earlier generations, it shows reduced edge distortion and improved overall image quality. Macro performance is also sharper, with significantly better detail retention than on the S24 or S25 generation devices. A practical note: for maximum close-up macro shots at very short distances, it is recommended to enable the “enhanced focus” mode directly in the camera interface (flower icon located near the zoom controls).
In terms of camera hardware capabilities, the system is positioned at the high end of current implementations. All camera modules support multi-directional PDAF as well as laser autofocus. Optical image stabilization is present in an updated generation form, alongside an advanced HDR processing pipeline.
VIEW PHOTO EXAMPLES IN THEIR ORIGINAL RESOLUTION
Overall impressions of the main cameras are very positive. Some degree of excessive contrast and sharpening – typical for Samsung processing – still remains, but the algorithms are less aggressive than before. This is noticeable when comparing directly with the S23 generation.
Images now appear more natural, and color reproduction is closer to neutral tones. However, in challenging shooting conditions, the influence of AI-based processing becomes more pronounced. As a result, certain textures such as grass or hair may be rendered in a less accurate or slightly reconstructed manner. This is likely an inherent limitation of modern smartphone computational photography.
Regarding video recording on the main sensor, the technical specifications appear largely unchanged. Supported modes include 8K at 30 fps, 4K at 30/60/120 fps, and 1080p up to 240 fps. Feature support includes 10-bit HDR, HDR10+, stereo audio recording, and gyro-based electronic image stabilization with an action camera mode.
However, the most significant change in video recording is likely hidden within the settings and disabled by default. This is not surprising, as it is primarily intended for a narrow group of professional users and content creators.
This refers to a cinematic video recording mode with support for the AVP codec, designed to deliver very high-quality footage with minimal compression – functionally similar to Apple ProRes on the iPhone. The mode can be enabled in the camera settings menu. It should be noted that files recorded in this mode are extremely large: even a 10-second clip can occupy several gigabytes of storage. As a result, internal memory can be filled very quickly. This mode is therefore more suitable for professional workflows, ideally with direct recording to a fast external SSD.
A key positive aspect of the camera system is how it handles automatic switching between modules during video recording when changing zoom levels or switching to ultrawide. Transitions are smooth and without noticeable jumps, closely resembling optical zoom behavior found in dedicated camera lenses. This allows for continuous zoom adjustments during recording that appear natural and coherent.
The system also includes a strong stabilization setup combining optical image stabilization, gyroscopic stabilization, and AI-based processing. In combination, these produce consistently stable footage, as can be observed in the sample videos below.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Test 4K Zoom
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Test 4K Super Steady
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Test 8K Super Steady
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Test 4K Zoom Nature
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Test 4K Evening Car
ALL VIDEO EXAMPLES – DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL FILES
The front-facing camera is a component that I personally pay very little attention to, and it appears the manufacturer shares this view, as it has remained largely unchanged for several years. Specifications include a 12 MP sensor (f/2.2, 26 mm) with Dual Pixel PDAF support. Capabilities include 4K video recording at 60 fps, HDR video, and portrait video mode. Overall, it is a solid front camera that reliably fulfills its intended functions without introducing significant changes compared to previous generations.
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Camera software
The cameras in the Galaxy S26 Ultra are not defined solely by hardware, but also by a substantial software layer. Samsung provides a broad set of features intended for both casual users and more advanced use cases.
In practice, the camera software is quite flexible: it allows for simple point-and-shoot usage with quick, consistent results, while also offering deeper manual control over the capture process when needed. This balance is one of the stronger aspects of Samsung’s camera application.
The basic interface remains straightforward and familiar, with quick access to core shooting modes, lens switching through zoom and mode changes, and clearly structured settings. Beneath this simple surface, however, there is a more extensive set of tools and configuration options available for users who want greater control over image capture.
Key camera software features:
- Pro and Pro Video modes with manual controls
- Expert RAW for capturing images with minimal in-camera processing, intended for manual post-processing
- Director’s View, enabling simultaneous use of multiple cameras during recording
- Night Mode and HDR processing with relatively aggressive computational enhancement
- Full support for 8K and 4K video recording with multiple frame rates and format options
A separate layer of functionality is provided by integrated AI-based editing tools:
- Object removal and object repositioning within the frame
- Frame expansion using generative fill techniques
- Detail and sharpness enhancement
- Portrait lighting adjustments
- Post-capture modification of focus points and depth-of-field (bokeh) regions in portrait images
- It is also worth noting Camera Assistant, an additional module that allows fine-tuning of camera behavior, including HDR handling, shutter response, and image processing parameters. It operates in real time and provides more granular control over capture behavior.
Battery life
For several years, the Ultra line has maintained a 5000 mAh battery capacity, despite an industry trend toward higher capacities in the range of 6000–8000 mAh in some current flagship devices. The reasons for this approach are not explicitly stated, but Samsung has historically taken a conservative stance regarding power system design. This may be linked to past product issues, which likely influenced a more cautious engineering philosophy in this area.
As a result, the company was also relatively slow to adopt very high fast-charging standards compared to competitors. Even today, a peak wired charging rate of 60 W appears modest when compared to devices that exceed 100 W. Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are also comparatively conservative, rated at 25 W and 4.5 W respectively.
Overall, Samsung continues to prioritize safety and established technologies over aggressive charging specifications or higher-risk implementations.
As a long-term Samsung user, I do not perceive slow charging as a practical issue. It is important to note that advertised peak charging power is typically a maximum value, which is only sustained for a short period within a limited battery percentage range. In most cases, charging power quickly drops to a lower sustained level, often around 40–60 W. As a result, the real-world difference between 100 W and 60 W charging is relatively small, and in many scenarios it is more of a marketing distinction than a meaningful practical improvement. Average full charging time tends to be broadly similar across devices. However, there can still be a noticeable advantage for higher-wattage systems within the mid-range state of charge (approximately 20–60%), where faster input power is maintained for longer periods.
In typical real-world usage of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, battery life corresponds to one full day under very intensive use (excluding gaming), or approximately 1.5 to even 2 days under moderate usage patterns. The results are not exceptional in a revolutionary sense, but they are stable and predictable, which is often more important in daily use. For users who require additional battery life, the settings provide options such as reducing CPU performance or enabling a battery-saving mode that more aggressively restricts background processes.
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Sound
In this area, I have no particular complaints. The audio performance of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is genuinely strong. The AKG-tuned stereo speakers perform well and the device is among the louder Samsung flagships. The soundstage is relatively wide, with a broad frequency range and a modest level of bass presence, which is still limited but noticeable compared to typical smartphone speakers.
From an audio pipeline perspective, it is also worth noting support for Dolby Atmos and an equalizer. These features are available for users who require additional sound tuning options, although I personally do not currently use software-based audio enhancements. For wireless audio, which is likely the primary method of connecting external audio devices to a smartphone today, the device supports a full set of commonly used codecs, including high-resolution and lossless-capable options such as aptX HD, LDAC, and Samsung’s proprietary SSC codec.
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Connectivity
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra includes a complete set of modern communication technologies.
- 5G: No notable issues with modem performance in typical use cases.
- Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7 (tri-band, Wi-Fi Direct): Provides high-speed wireless connectivity with broad compatibility across current standards.
- Bluetooth 6.0 (A2DP, LE): Stable device connections with support for low-energy operation modes.
- NFC: Functions reliably for payments and tag reading.
- UWB (Ultra-Wideband): Used for precise spatial positioning, geolocation tagging, and interaction with compatible IoT devices.
- GPS support for all major systems: GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS
- Universal USB Type-C 3.2 port with OTG and DisplayPort 1.2 support for connecting an external display and using Samsung DeX in pseudo-desktop mode
Firmware and software
The smartphone runs One UI 8.5 based on Android 16. For the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Samsung also advertises extended software support of up to 7 years of updates.
Over time, One UI has evolved into a highly functional software layer. Beyond basic device control, it effectively serves as a central hub for the Samsung ecosystem, enabling interaction with a wide range of devices such as headphones, smartwatches, televisions, tracking tags, and various IoT products.
The platform also includes deep integration with Windows, as well as interoperability with tablets and laptops. In addition, it provides a number of smaller but practical features such as fast file sharing, cross-device clipboard synchronization, and note syncing. For users already invested in Samsung’s ecosystem, this level of integration can improve day-to-day usability.
Samsung has long moved away from an “add everything at once” experimental approach and has converged on a more balanced system. The platform includes a broad set of capabilities: flexible interface customization, advanced multitasking, windowed app support, and full integration with the S Pen stylus. At the same time, the system does not feel overly cluttered or disorganized. The current version of One UI is complex in terms of feature set, but generally remains logically structured. If a specific function is difficult to locate within the layered settings menu, it can typically be found using the built-in settings search.
One UI in this generation runs smoothly, responsively, and in a predictable manner. Neither in everyday use nor under heavier load does the system exhibit noticeable stuttering or performance drops. At this point, the interface becomes effectively “transparent” to the user – it does not interfere and simply functions as expected.
The system also includes advanced tools for interface customization, including theme support and various visual styling options. Users who want to personalize the look and feel of the device have a wide range of configuration possibilities to work with.
The disadvantages are generally consistent with previous versions of One UI.
First, the system remains relatively heavy in terms of both resource usage and feature density. Second, some Samsung proprietary services duplicate functionality already provided by Google, and not all users rely on them. However, this is largely a matter of user preference and habit.
At the same time, most preinstalled tools and applications can be disabled, uninstalled, or simply hidden and ignored, which mitigates much of this redundancy in practical use.
AI features
In the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, artificial intelligence is no longer a standalone add-on feature but an integrated part of the system. In One UI 8.5, AI is embedded across the interface and included in many everyday use cases. At the same time, these capabilities are implemented as optional tools rather than a mandatory core experience. Users can actively rely on AI-based functions or largely ignore them without affecting the overall usability of the device. Most AI-related features can also be disabled if desired (for example, Bixby-related or “Brief Now” type services).
Overall, the device includes a wide range of AI functionality, but its usage remains a user choice rather than a system requirement. Below is a brief overview of the main AI-based tools and solutions.
Samsung Galaxy AI + Google Gemini + Bixby
The system is primarily based on a combination of Samsung Galaxy AI and Google Gemini. In this setup, Gemini is more deeply integrated into the system than before and handles tasks such as information search, text generation, and assistance within the browser, email, and notes applications. Bixby has also been updated, but its role has shifted. It now functions more as a system-level dispatcher rather than the main AI assistant. In practice, Gemini serves as the primary AI layer, while Samsung builds additional services around it.
In One UI 8.5, Samsung positions AI as a supporting tool rather than the central user experience. This is a pragmatic approach: AI operates in the background, helping to speed up tasks, reduce routine effort, and add convenience without requiring users to change their established workflows. In summary, AI in the Galaxy S26 Ultra is present in significant quantity, but its usage remains optional. It is up to the user whether to actively rely on it or effectively disable it. In my case, it is turned off.
Text and voice processing
AI is actively used across text and voice workflows, with these functions integrated directly into system applications, without requiring copy-paste between apps.
Key capabilities include:
- Automatic summarization of web pages in the browser, as well as messages in email and messaging applications
- Text generation for messages, notes, and emails, along with speech-to-text transcription of conversations
- Paraphrasing and tone adjustment for written content
- Real-time translation, including Live Translate during phone calls, where translation is performed directly during the conversation without relying on external services
Another notable feature is AI Call Screening, which functions as an intelligent voicemail system. During an incoming call, the assistant can answer on behalf of the user, ask the caller to identify themselves, and clarify the purpose of the call. At the same time, a real-time text transcript of the conversation is displayed on the screen. After reviewing the information, the user can decide whether to join the call or reject it. For users who frequently receive spam or unwanted calls, this feature can be practically useful.
Image processing
In One UI 8.5, Samsung continues the approach of tightly integrating the camera application with the Gallery app and the built-in image editor. In this context, the Galaxy S26 Ultra makes extensive use of AI-based processing capabilities.
These include:
- Object removal
- Object repositioning within the frame
- Image expansion using generative fill
- Detail enhancement
- Reflection removal
This is all, of course, very capable, but at times the AI “reconstructs” or generates details in a way that becomes noticeable, as the result may look visually appealing but not always fully natural. The influence of AI already begins at the camera stage, where it handles automatic scene detection, HDR processing, low-light enhancement, and texture optimization (such as skin, grass, and hair). As a result, AI has a significant impact on the final image output – at times even more than the optical system itself.
System-level AI and assistants
The system also includes a range of intelligent features that are tightly integrated into the interface and operate in an agent-like manner, often without requiring an explicit user request.
A basic example is AI-generated news aggregation based on services such as Perplexity, as well as the “Brief Now” feature, which collects contextual suggestions on the lock screen. It aggregates updates and recommendations based on user preferences, including content from sources like Google News, Feedly, YouTube, or TikTok, presented in a unified view.
Additionally, the system provides intelligent adaptation to usage scenarios, such as optimizing power consumption or performance depending on workload. AI-driven suggestions are also available within system settings, helping users understand the impact of specific options and configurations when needed.
Security and privacy
Samsung emphasizes that part of the AI processing is performed locally on the device, meaning sensitive data is not necessarily sent to the cloud in all scenarios. The new Privacy Display mode can also be considered part of this broader “intelligent” approach to privacy, as it applies context-aware control over what is visible on the screen depending on viewing conditions and usage context.
S Pen and its capabilities in the Galaxy S26 Ultra
The S Pen is no longer just a stylus, but a full-fledged productivity tool that has remained a distinctive feature of Samsung’s flagship smartphones and tablets for many years. Importantly, there are still no Android alternatives that offer the same level of system integration.
The stylus is stored inside the device body, always readily available, and does not require separate charging. It operates with fast and accurate input, with minimal latency, making handwriting and drawing reasonably comfortable and close to a paper-like experience. In practical use, it is suitable for tasks such as signing contracts, invoices, and NDA agreements directly in PDF documents. It is also commonly used for annotating screenshots to quickly communicate specific points or clarify information for other users.
Primary S Pen use cases:
- Handwritten notes, including writing with the screen turned off
- Drawing and sketching
- Precise interaction with text and the user interface
- Document signing
- Camera control and presentation navigation (Air Actions)
It is also worth noting the integration with the system:
- Fast note creation
- Text translation via hover-based selection
- Object extraction from images
- Interaction with AI tools (editing, selection, refinement)
In practice, the S Pen is not a tool for every user. Many users only take it out a few times over the entire lifecycle of the device. However, for those who understand its purpose and have a clear use case for it, it remains one of the strongest distinguishing features of Samsung’s Note and Ultra series.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra can be described as a near-reference flagship smartphone. It does not introduce major disruptive changes, but this reflects a certain maturity of the product line. Rather than attempting to redefine the user experience each year, Samsung focuses on refining and optimizing the existing framework. For most users, this aligns well with expectations: stability, predictability, and a well-polished set of familiar features.
As a result, the device offers high-end hardware combined with one of the most comprehensive and feature-rich software environments on the market. Among the most noticeable additions, the Privacy Display feature stands out as a practical enhancement with real-world use cases.
In terms of AI capabilities, these are largely aligned with current industry trends. They are present and functional, but are positioned as optional tools rather than essential components of the user experience.
At the same time, there are features that remain genuinely distinctive. The S Pen has long been a key differentiating feature of the Ultra series, and for users who need it, there are effectively no equivalent alternatives on the market. It is also worth mentioning the cinematic video recording mode. While it is not intended for general use, for those who do rely on it, it represents one of the more capable tools available to video creators within the Android ecosystem.
All of this combined – premium body materials, high build quality, one of the best displays on the market, a capable camera system, and mature software – results in a very cohesive and well-considered product. It can be described as a kind of “gold standard” for a flagship device.
If we talk about relative drawbacks, there are not many. The design has become more restrained and conventional, gradually losing some of its distinctiveness. The camera module protrudes noticeably, which may not suit everyone in everyday use. In addition, the battery capacity remains unchanged, even though the market is increasingly expecting a further step forward in this area.
Regarding upgrading, the approach is fairly pragmatic. It makes sense to base the decision primarily on the current condition of your existing device’s battery. Based on my assessment: for users of the Galaxy S23 Ultra, upgrading appears reasonable and justifiable. For the Galaxy S24 Ultra, it becomes more of a personal choice depending on preference and budget. As for Galaxy S25 Ultra owners, there is likely no strong incentive to upgrade, as no significant leap in experience is expected.
Read also: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review: A Flagship Without Improvements
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