Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a subtle set of hardware improvements

Engadget

by Ian Carlos Campbell

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Samsung has unveiled its latest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which builds on the success of last year's model with a range of subtle yet significant upgrades. The device features a new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, improved camera systems with enhanced apertures for better light capture, and a privacy-focused display technology called "Privacy Display." This innovative feature limits screen visibility when not viewed directly, adding an extra layer of security. The phone also boasts a more affordable aluminum frame compared to the titanium used in previous models, making it slightly thinner at 0.31 inches. In terms of design, the Galaxy S26 Ultra maintains its familiar 6.9-inch QHD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and S Pen stylus support. The new model offers curved sides for better ergonomics and a refined S Pen design that complements its shape. Under the hood, it comes with 12GB or 16GB of RAM, paired with storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. Powering the device is a 5,000mAh battery, supporting fast charging and wireless power sharing for accessories like earbuds. The camera system remains largely unchanged in terms of megapixel count but benefits from aperture adjustments on both the wide and periscope cameras, allowing for better light intake and improved photography. The phone also introduces Perplexity AI as a second system-level assistant, alongside Google’s Gemini. This integration enhances Bix

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Originally published on Engadget on 2/25/2026