At a Glance
- Samsung’s next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, may need more than incremental updates to stay ahead.
- Key demands include a larger camera sensor, shareable photo presets, a smaller size, brighter colors, a bigger battery, and faster charging.
- Meeting these could keep Samsung competitive against rivals like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei.
- Why it matters: Consumers expect flagship phones to set new standards, not just repeat past successes.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to launch in the coming months, and many reviewers are calling for significant changes. Daniel J. Whitman has spent 14 years reviewing Samsung’s Ultra line and notes that while the brand remains a market leader, it has not matched the innovation seen in newer phones from Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei.
Camera Sensors
Samsung’s Ultra phones have long been praised for night-time photography and early telephoto zoom. Yet the hardware has seen little evolution across recent models. Daniel J. Whitman believes a larger main sensor is essential.
- Current state: The S25 Ultra’s main camera remains the same size as its predecessor.
- Desired change: A 1-inch type sensor, similar to Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra, would allow more light capture and better dynamic range.
- Benefit: Photographers could achieve mirrorless-camera quality without relying heavily on software.
“I love the shots I’ve taken with Xiaomi’s recent phones, and I want to see Samsung create a camera that’s truly tailored to pro photographers like myself,” said Daniel J. Whitman.
Photo Filter Options
Samsung already offers a variety of filters that adjust color toning and exposure, comparable to Apple’s Photographic Styles. However, sharing custom presets is not possible.
- Current limitation: Presets can be created and saved locally but cannot be shared.
- Opportunity: A community platform for sharing presets, similar to Fujifilm’s recipe system.
- Result: A more vibrant user base and increased brand loyalty.
Daniel J. Whitman shared a personal preset inspired by Wes Anderson: “Samsung’s My Filter tool allowed me to create this Wes Anderson-inspired photo preset. I’d love to be able to share this with other photographers, as well as use color filters created by an enthusiastic photo community.”
Size and Ergonomics
The S25 Ultra’s 6.9-inch display makes it difficult to use one-handed and uncomfortable in tight pockets. Samsung traditionally offers only one size for its flagship line.
- Current issue: The phone’s large form factor forces a trade-off between performance and pocketability.
- Suggested change: Introduce a smaller variant with the same processor and camera capabilities.
- Additional idea: Incorporate the S Pen for added functionality.
“I love my iPhone 17 Pro. It fits in my hand. My tiny, tiny hands,” said Daniel J. Whitman. “I’d love to see Samsung take a cue from Apple here and put the processor and camera skills that make the Ultra series what they are into a more manageable size.”
Color Palette
Samsung’s Ultra range has historically favored muted tones. The S22 Ultra briefly experimented with orange, but recent releases have been subdued.
- Current options: Black, silver, and subtle hues.
- Desired change: Vibrant colors such as metallic pink or bright orange.
- Impact: Attracts consumers looking for a more playful accessory.
“If Samsung takes that vibrant metallic pink and slaps it onto the S26 Ultra, then I’ll be basically forced to throw my credit card at them to get one,” remarked Daniel J. Whitman.
Battery and Charging
The S25 Ultra ships with a 5,000-mAh battery and a 45-W charger. Competitors now offer larger batteries and higher wattage.
| Phone | Battery (mAh) | Charging (W) |
|---|---|---|
| S25 Ultra | 5,000 | 45 |
| OnePlus 15 | 7,300 | 80 |
| S26 Ultra (proposed) | >5,000 | >45 |
- Current gap: Samsung lags behind in battery capacity and charging speed.
- Proposed upgrade: Adopt silicon-carbon cells and support 100-W charging.
- Benefit: Longer usage time and faster top-ups.
Daniel J. Whitman noted, “The S25 Ultra’s battery was certainly good when we tested it, but with new battery technology being used on rival phones, it’s time Samsung gave its Ultra series a bit of a refresh here.”
Pricing Considerations
While the S25 Ultra launched at the same price as its predecessor, economic factors may push the S26 Ultra higher.
- Factors: Economic fluctuations, tariffs, and a global RAM shortage increase component costs.
- Expectation: A higher price tag unless Samsung trims specifications.
- Goal: Keep the price accessible to a broad audience.
“I’m asking for a lot in this article, and I know that if I had my way on everything, the phone would have to see a significant price increase,” said Daniel J. Whitman. “But I’m hoping that Samsung is able to keep this to a minimum and not use market changes as an opportunity to increase the price to a point where having the latest technology is simply out of reach for anyone without the title ‘Oil baron’ on their business card.”
Key Takeaways
- A larger camera sensor would elevate the S26 Ultra’s photography to mirrorless quality.
- Shared photo presets could build a dedicated community and differentiate Samsung from competitors.
- A smaller, more ergonomic design would improve everyday usability.
- Vibrant color options would broaden appeal beyond business-centric palettes.
- Upgraded battery technology and faster charging are essential to match rival flagship phones.
- Pricing must balance component costs with consumer expectations.
If Samsung implements these changes, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could regain its position as a true industry leader.
