Anticipating the Galaxy S26 Ultra: Five Wishful Features Samsung May Never Deliver

The much-anticipated Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to launch in just three weeks, with exciting rumors and speculation swirling around its features. While Samsung has teased some innovative upgrades, such as a unique built-in digital privacy protection for its display, many of us feel let down by how iterative the S26 Ultra seems compared to its predecessors. With criticisms mounting regarding its unchanged 5,000 mAh battery size, which has been a staple in Ultra models for five generations, it's time to dream big. Here are five much-desired upgrades that would transform the Galaxy S26 Ultra, but which Samsung likely won't implement.

1. 3D Face Unlock

Despite the rising importance of security, Samsung seems indifferent to integrating a secure 3D face unlock system in its flagship devices. Competitors like Apple and Honor have implemented this feature effectively, providing users with security without compromising convenience. So, why not offer both a fingerprint scanner and 3D face recognition?

2. The Return of the MicroSD Slot

As video resolutions increase and storage needs grow, the absence of a microSD card slot becomes increasingly glaring. With many companies charging exorbitantly for additional storage, bringing back the microSD slot would be a thoughtful upgrade. Fast, reliable microSD cards could allow users greater flexibility without the hefty price tag associated with internal storage upgrades.

3. An Anti-S Pen Option

While the S Pen is beloved by many, it's arguably wasted space for a portion of users who never utilize it. Samsung could easily offer an option without the S Pen, allowing for an increase in battery size or extra features that could appeal to a broader audience. Imagine an Ultra model dedicated entirely to performance rather than stylus support.

4. A Pro-grade 3X Telephoto Lens

Samsung once ruled the zoom lens market, but recent models have left the secondary 3X telephoto camera behind in terms of innovation. Upgrading this lens to boost performance would significantly enhance our photography experience and address the current limitations in detail and noise.

5. Truly Fast Charging

Rumored improvements to fast charging, like a bump to 60W, are appreciated, yet the charging speed still pales in comparison to other flagship devices. With some competitors offering 80W and even 100W charging options, Samsung is lagging behind. A substantial upgrade in charging speed would cater to users who are always on the go.

Conclusion

Samsung appears to be adopting a more conservative approach akin to Apple's, focusing on minor tweaks rather than groundbreaking advancements. While the S26 Ultra will undoubtedly be a commendable smartphone, for those accustomed to the trailblazing innovations of the Galaxy Note era, it feels more like a collection of missed opportunities. In a competitive landscape, particularly in Asia, Samsung must rethink its strategy to include features that resonate with its loyal user base.