It’s been over a month since the Galaxy S26 series launched, and Samsung reports strong sales, particularly for the Ultra version in the US. But a recent poll tells a different story. Out of 513 voters, nearly 53% expressed disappointment with the upgrades offered by the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
As a Samsung enthusiast, I share that disappointment. Apple’s iPhone 17 series introduced meaningful improvements, while the latest from Samsung feels like a small step backward. If anything, the S26 Ultra might as well be called the Galaxy S25.1 Ultra, as it lacks the excitement many were hoping for.
Why Doesn’t the Galaxy S26 Ultra Feel Like an Upgrade?
Firstly, let’s talk about design. Samsung Ultra models are known for their premium feel, thanks to titanium frames. Surprisingly, the S26 Ultra features an aluminum frame instead. This choice seems driven by cost-cutting, keeping up with rising RAM prices. While aluminum makes the phone lighter and improves heat dissipation, it sacrifices the premium feel many expect when paying over $1,300.
I also hoped for Bluetooth support for the S Pen to return, especially after last year’s removal drew fan backlash. The camera upgrades are minimal. The telephoto lens improved slightly, but the main 200 MP sensor only gained a bit of light sensitivity. What’s disappointing is a lack of upgrades for the 3x telephoto lens.
The battery remains at 5000 mAh, unchanged from previous models. Other manufacturers like OnePlus have been pushing for larger batteries, so many hoped Samsung would follow suit. Plus, the absence of MagSafe support is another letdown.
Is There Any Good News?
It’s not all bad. The S26 Ultra includes some noteworthy features. A new privacy display limits screen visibility from angles, which enhances security. Wired charging power increased from 45W to 60W, a welcome upgrade. You can now shoot in a 24 MP mode for high-resolution images and enjoy a new APV codec for better video quality. The software also brought in features like an audio eraser for videos and an AI-powered image merging tool.
But I still feel the Galaxy S26 Ultra could have done more. If you own the S25 Ultra, it might be better to skip this upgrade and wait for the rumored S27 Ultra. This next model is expected to come with significant improvements, potentially addressing issues like battery size and camera capabilities.
What Are Users Saying?
Online reactions show a mix of disappointment and cautious optimism. Social media is buzzing with discussions about the lack of major changes. Some users argue that Samsung is becoming complacent, mirroring earlier criticisms of Apple. Others still value the brand’s overall ecosystem and the new features that have been introduced.
In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, consumers are looking for meaningful upgrades. A stagnant approach doesn’t resonate well with dedicated fans. As seen in past product releases, brands must consistently innovate to stay relevant.
In conclusion, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra has its perks, many expected more for such a high price. For now, it may be best to hold off on upgrading if you currently have an S25 model. But if you’re starting fresh from an older model, the Galaxy S26 Ultra still presents a solid option.
For more tech insights, check out Samsung’s official news page for the latest updates.
