While this prioritization isn’t new, this time the gap may be wide enough that even mainstream users feel compelled to spend more on the Ultra instead of settling for the standard or Plus variants.

Faster charging and intelligent privacy screen

One of the most talked-about upgrades in the Galaxy S26 Ultra is its charging capability. Previous reports indicate that the Ultra model will finally receive a substantial boost in wired charging power - from 45W to 60W.

Wireless charging is also getting a lift, moving from 15W to 25W. This is a notable step forward, especially as many Android brands have long embraced ultra-fast charging.

In contrast, the standard Galaxy S26 and the S26 Plus are not expected to receive any improvements in this area. If these reports hold true, the user experience gap will widen further - particularly for users who frequently rely on quick top-ups during the day.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is also rumored to debut an entirely new feature: a privacy display. This technology can shield on-screen content from prying eyes nearby.

With the help of AI, the device can detect when someone is looking over your shoulder and automatically blur or hide content - while still appearing clear to the main user.

Users can also customize when this privacy mode activates - for example, while opening a banking app or checking work emails.

Importantly, this feature is expected to be exclusive to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, with no plans to introduce it to the other models in the lineup.

Exclusive AI capabilities

According to renowned leaker @Ice Universe, the Galaxy S26 Ultra may also come equipped with a suite of advanced AI features unavailable on the other S26 models.

Even the Galaxy S25 Ultra will reportedly have to wait several months after the S26 Ultra launch to access these tools via software updates.

This marks a significant shift for Samsung, which has previously promoted broad AI support across multiple devices.

Restricting high-end AI tools to a single model could cause some users to feel left out or treated unequally.

That said, many smartphone users still don’t pay much attention to AI features.

But for early adopters and tech enthusiasts eager to explore cutting-edge AI experiences, there may be only one clear choice: the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Wider-angle selfie camera

According to The Verge, the S26 Ultra will also offer a practical upgrade - an ultra-wide-angle front camera.

This makes group selfies easier to capture and enhances video calls and vlogging by offering a more expansive frame, without needing a selfie stick.

In everyday use, this might even be a more persuasive reason to opt for the Ultra than the exclusive AI features.

The selfie camera is something users interact with regularly, and a noticeable improvement in the viewing angle offers immediate, tangible value.

Ultra-first strategy continues

Looking at Samsung’s product strategy in recent years, it’s reasonable to expect that the exclusive features of the S26 Ultra won’t remain exclusive forever.

As implementation costs drop, these features may trickle down to the standard and Plus models in future generations - possibly with the Galaxy S27 or beyond.

However, by then, Samsung is almost certain to introduce new technologies to maintain the Ultra model’s edge. This creates a continuous cycle where the Ultra always feels one step ahead.

With the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Samsung is sending a clear message: if you want the very best - faster charging, smart privacy display, cutting-edge AI, and enhanced selfie camera - the Ultra is the only serious option.

Otherwise, you’ll have to accept that the more affordable versions are increasingly being left behind.

Hai Phong