Samsung’s Ultra series continues to assert its position as a powerhouse Android flagship - robust, enduring, and supported with long-term software updates. For users of older Samsung models or other Android phones, the big question remains: what makes the S26 Ultra worth the leap?

A smart privacy display

One of the most intriguing rumored upgrades, according to PhoneArena, is the new privacy display. This technology lets the S26 Ultra conceal screen content from surrounding viewers, while keeping everything fully visible to the person holding the phone.

Even more interesting, Samsung is reportedly integrating AI into this feature. Users can set certain apps or sensitive information to trigger privacy mode automatically.

The phone can also use environmental awareness to detect when someone approaches and activate the privacy screen without user input.

Though convenient, this feature may also ignite debate around surveillance and device control boundaries.

A wider aperture for better low-light photography

The S26 Ultra is rumored to come with a wider aperture on its main camera, allowing more light intake compared to the S25 Ultra.

While this doesn’t equate to an all-new sensor, the wider aperture can significantly improve performance in low-light scenarios - night shots, indoor photos, or complex lighting conditions.

However, this change comes with a design trade-off. Samsung may revert to a protruding camera island instead of the flush lens setup introduced previously. Aesthetically, some users may object, but the improved night photography may win them over.

The surprise return of Exynos in the Ultra lineup

After years of relying on Snapdragon chips for most Ultra models globally, Samsung is reportedly bringing back its in-house silicon with the Exynos 2600, built on a 2nm process.

This chip is said to offer impressive performance - potentially on par with or even exceeding current Snapdragon 3nm SoCs.

Still, Samsung may apply a market segmentation strategy, with some regions getting Exynos and others sticking to Snapdragon.

Regardless, Samsung’s recent advancements in chip development mean the Exynos 2600 could be more exciting than ever - and the S26 Ultra running Exynos might just be worth waiting for.

A more ergonomic design

Samsung introduced a slightly curved frame with the S25 Ultra, and the S26 Ultra is expected to curve even more around the four corners for a smoother, softer grip.

The phone is also reportedly thinner, a change that likely necessitated the return of the raised camera island.

Interestingly, the new curves are drawing comparisons to iPhone designs. Still, for fans of sleek, easy-to-hold smartphones, this will be a welcome evolution.

A larger battery, finally

Perhaps the most anticipated update is the long-overdue battery bump. After years of using a 5,000mAh cell, Samsung is said to be upgrading the S26 Ultra’s battery to 5,200mAh.

The 200mAh increase may seem minor on paper, but it could make a noticeable difference in real-world screen-on time - especially as Apple raised the battery on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, nudging Samsung to respond.

The S26 Ultra is also rumored to boost charging speeds: wired charging will increase from 45W to 60W, while wireless charging jumps from 15W to 25W.

Though not yet in the realm of ultra-fast charging seen on some Chinese rivals, this is still a substantial upgrade for Samsung’s premium lineup.

Evolution, not revolution - but still compelling

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is not a revolutionary product. But it represents a thoughtful refinement - combining privacy, camera strength, silicon power, ergonomic design, and battery endurance.

The pace may be measured, but each improvement feels deliberate and user-focused. These collective upgrades are what keep the S26 Ultra firmly in the spotlight among next year’s top-tier smartphones.

Still, it's worth noting that all of these details are based on leaks from supply chain sources. Samsung has yet to confirm any of these features.

That said, if you're looking for a high-end Android phone that's smart, durable, and continuously improving, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is likely to be at the top of your shortlist.

Hai Phong