The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated premium Android smartphones of 2026. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung is expected to introduce significant improvements in camera technology, display brightness, battery capacity, and artificial intelligence capabilities. This article explores all the major leaks and credible predictions, including estimated pricing, launch date, and technical specifications—delivered with a focus on accuracy and transparency.
Last updated: May 17, 2025
By: Jaydatt Khodave, Editor at The Blaze Times
Contact: theblazetimes@gmail.com
Expected Launch Timeline and Price in India
According to industry insiders and historical launch cycles, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be announced globally between January and February 2026. Samsung typically unveils its Galaxy S-series in the first quarter, and the S26 series is likely to follow suit.
In terms of pricing, reliable sources indicate the following expected price brackets for the Indian market:
- Galaxy S26 (Base model): ₹79,990
- Galaxy S26 Plus: ₹89,990
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: ₹1,25,990
These prices are indicative and subject to change, depending on component costs, local taxes, and import duties. If Samsung integrates more advanced camera modules or battery innovations, a marginal price increase is possible.
Design and Display: Incremental Refinement with Display Innovation
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to retain the premium aesthetic of its predecessor with some refinements. Design leaks suggest a flat-edged frame similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, along with reduced bezels and possibly an under-display front camera to create a true full-screen experience.
Display specifications based on early panel data include:
- Display size: 6.9 to 7.1 inches Dynamic AMOLED 2X
- Refresh rate: 120Hz adaptive
- Peak brightness: Estimated up to 3,000 nits using Samsung’s new M15 OLED panel
- Color accuracy: Enhanced with CoE (Color filter on Encapsulation) technology for better light transmittance and power efficiency
The adoption of an under-display camera (UDC) is reportedly being tested, but image quality concerns may delay its mass implementation.
Camera Specifications: Variable Aperture and Telephoto Enhancements
One of the most significant upgrades for the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be in the camera department. According to well-known leak sources including Ice Universe and Jukanlosreve, Samsung may reintroduce variable aperture functionality and improve zoom capabilities.
Expected rear camera configuration:
- Main sensor: 200MP ISOCELL HP2, 1/1.3" sensor size, variable aperture (f/1.4 to f/4.0), OIS
- Ultra-wide: 50MP, f/1.9 with autofocus
- Telephoto 1 (3.5x optical): 50MP sensor
- Periscope telephoto (8x optical): 50MP sensor, 184mm focal length, f/3.0
The return of variable aperture allows better control over depth of field and improves low-light performance. It was last seen in Samsung's Galaxy S9 series. AI-powered image processing is also expected to further enhance clarity and color accuracy in both photos and videos.
Front Camera: The front-facing camera may either remain as a 12MP punch-hole unit or transition to an under-display module. The final decision appears to depend on the balance between display quality and selfie image performance.
Video Recording Capabilities:
- 8K video recording at up to 60fps (rumored)
- Enhanced HDR and stabilization via AI-driven processing
Performance, Software, and AI Capabilities
Samsung is expected to equip the Galaxy S26 Ultra with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 or Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset in most global markets. Select regions may receive an Exynos 2600 variant. While Samsung has faced criticism for performance inconsistencies in Exynos-powered devices, improved fabrication techniques may reduce the performance gap.
Estimated RAM and storage configurations:
- RAM: 12GB and 16GB LPDDR6
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB UFS 4.1
Software:
- Operating System: Android 16
- Skin: One UI 8.0
- Features: New Galaxy AI capabilities, including real-time translation, AI photo editing, and advanced privacy tools
Samsung’s AI integration, known as Galaxy AI, will be a key differentiator in both consumer and enterprise use cases.
Battery and Charging: Next-Generation Technology
One of the most intriguing rumors surrounding the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the potential shift to a silicon-carbon or stacked battery design. If accurate, this could significantly improve energy density while keeping the device’s form factor unchanged.
Expected battery specifications:
- Capacity: Between 5,500mAh and 7,000mAh (subject to final design)
- Wired charging: Up to 65W fast charging (an upgrade over the 45W seen in the S25 Ultra)
- Wireless charging: 15W with partial Qi2 standard support
These enhancements would allow Samsung to offer extended battery life and shorter charging durations, directly competing with the likes of Vivo and Xiaomi’s flagship models.
S Pen and Productivity Features
Samsung is likely to restore full Bluetooth functionality to the S Pen after it was removed in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. With Bluetooth, users will regain features such as:
- Remote camera shutter
- Air gestures
- Slide control for presentations
The S Pen remains a defining feature of the Ultra model, catering to business users, creatives, and Note series loyalists.
Branding Strategy and Product Positioning
There are indications that Samsung may rebrand the Galaxy S26 Ultra as the “Galaxy Note 26” to align with historical naming conventions and to better communicate the device’s productivity features. This would also allow Samsung to differentiate the model from the standard and Plus versions in the S26 series.
Expected model hierarchy:
- Galaxy S26 (Base)
- Galaxy S26 Pro (Mid-tier)
- Galaxy S26 Note / Ultra (Premium tier with S Pen and advanced camera features)
Competitive Landscape
Key competitors to the Galaxy S26 Ultra will include:
- Vivo X200 Pro
- Xiaomi 15 Ultra
- Honor Magic 7 Pro
- OnePlus 13 Pro Max
Samsung will be banking on its software ecosystem, brand equity, and technological innovations to maintain its dominance in the premium Android segment.
Conclusion: Is the Galaxy S26 Ultra Worth the Wait?
Based on current leak data and Samsung’s track record, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to offer a significant upgrade across all major pillars: camera, performance, battery, and display. While some features such as the under-display camera and new battery tech are still in prototype stages, the overall package is expected to represent a mature and forward-looking evolution of the Galaxy S-series.
Potential buyers looking for a future-proof flagship with strong AI capabilities, professional-grade photography tools, and productivity enhancements should consider waiting for the official launch in early 2026.
Disclaimer:
These details are based on leaks and rumors as of May 17, 2025, and should be taken with skepticism, as prototype specs may not reflect the final product. Samsung has not officially confirmed any information about the Galaxy S26 Ultra. As the launch approaches, more reliable leaks and official announcements will clarify the device’s features.