Just a day after noted leaker Evan Blass released a 360-degree video of the device in its new Cobalt Violet shade, Ice Universe  -  another trusted source  -  added fresh insights into the key visual changes compared to last year’s Galaxy S25 Ultra.

But for those anticipating a sweeping redesign, the latest information may temper expectations.

According to Ice Universe, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will largely retain the silhouette of its predecessor. Rather than a bold transformation, Samsung appears to be refining what already works  -  enhancing the design through incremental improvements aimed at delivering a more premium and ergonomic experience.

This approach echoes Samsung’s broader strategy in recent years: iterate carefully, reduce risk, and maintain the signature identity of the Galaxy S Ultra line.

Three key design tweaks

Among the changes Ice Universe highlighted, three stand out.

First, the corners of the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be slightly more rounded than those of the S25 Ultra. While subtle, this tweak is expected to improve the phone’s grip and comfort  -  especially for users who operate their device one-handed.

Second, the front-facing camera cutout is reportedly getting wider. The adjustment supports a wider field of view for selfies and video calls  -  increasingly essential in the era of social media and remote work.

Third, the display size will increase marginally, from 6.86 inches to around 6.89 inches. Interestingly, the bezel thickness remains unchanged. Earlier rumors had suggested Samsung would shrink the bezels to expand the display area, but it now seems the company opted instead to slightly enlarge the screen itself.

Other subtle but important refinements

Beyond these core changes, the rear camera array is also getting a new layout. Three of the four lenses will be housed in a vertical, pill-shaped module, offering a cleaner and more modern aesthetic than the scattered design of the previous model.

In terms of physical dimensions, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly be 0.8mm taller and 0.5mm wider, but also 0.3mm thinner than its predecessor.

Despite the slight size increase, the phone is expected to weigh 4g less than the S25 Ultra  -  a sign that Samsung has restructured the internal build to improve long-term handling and comfort.

These small adjustments may resonate with Galaxy S loyalists who appreciate familiar designs that don’t compromise usability.

Samsung appears to be prioritizing function over form, as seen in its willingness to soften once-angular corners that previously defined the Galaxy Ultra's sharp, industrial look.

Back to aluminum  -  and back to basics?

Another noteworthy detail is Samsung’s reported decision to revert to aluminum for the phone’s frame  -  just two years after adopting titanium in recent Ultra models.

Titanium, while sleek and durable, adds weight and manufacturing complexity. Aluminum, by contrast, is lighter, more cost-effective, and easier to produce at scale.

This shift signals a practical balancing act between premium feel, user comfort, and production realities.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s new look  -  slimmer, smoother, and with a reworked camera setup  -  might not shock users at first glance. But it seems tailored to offer a more refined, mature flagship experience.

Still, these updates are evolutionary, not revolutionary.

Leaks suggest Samsung is saving its boldest moves for software, especially AI-based features, which are expected to be the true highlights of the Galaxy S26 series.

With this design direction, the Galaxy S26 Ultra may not turn heads instantly  -  but it could win them over slowly, through daily use and thoughtful design.

Hai Phong