The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has been eagerly anticipated by Android enthusiasts as the next pinnacle in Samsung’s flagship lineup. While the recently launched Galaxy Z TriFold grabs headlines with its unique foldable design, most users looking for a high-end, traditional smartphone have their eyes on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. However, early leaks and rumors suggest that Samsung may have held back on two crucial upgrades that fans expected over the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Sticking with the Same Battery Capacity?
One of the biggest selling points for many flagship buyers is battery life, and last year’s Galaxy S25 Ultra packed a solid 5,000 mAh battery. The Galaxy S26 Ultra was rumored to finally increase this capacity slightly to 5,200 mAh, giving it an edge over its predecessor. Unfortunately, recent information suggests Samsung might keep the battery capacity unchanged at 5,000 mAh. This maintenance of status quo could disappoint users hoping for longer-lasting usage without compromises.
Display Innovations Appear Limited
Moving to the display, Samsung has touted the use of the new M14 OLED panel in the S26 Ultra. While this new material has generated excitement for potential improvements in brightness, color accuracy, and efficiency, the reality may be less impressive. According to trusted tipster Ice Universe, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will limit the display’s capabilities by capping the brightness at 2600 nits, restricting color depth to 8-bit, and employing low-frequency PWM to conserve battery life. These limitations suggest the screen might not deliver a significant visual upgrade compared to existing flagship panels like the one used in the Chinese iQOO 15.
Other Improvements and Design
On the performance front, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Elite chipset, bringing modest improvements in raw speed compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the S25 Ultra. Physically, the phone is rumored to be slightly slimmer and lighter, shaving off 0.3 mm in thickness and 4 grams in weight. While these refinements are welcome, they may feel insignificant to users looking for tangible design overhauls.
A Missed Opportunity for a Stronger Flagship
After years of incremental upgrades, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s apparent lack of meaningful changes in critical areas like battery life and display might make it feel more like a minor refresh than a full-fledged flagship upgrade. For Samsung fans and potential buyers weighing the S25 Ultra versus the S26 Ultra, the differences may not justify an immediate purchase, leaving the next model in 2026 as the likely stage for more substantial innovation.
