\n<\/p>\n
Article Jump List<\/p>\n
<\/default:svg><\/button><\/p>\n\n1. An AI that actually helps you?<\/li>\n2. Samsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet<\/li>\n3. A more useful Galaxy AI<\/li>\n4. We didn\u2019t forget the S Pen<\/li>\n5. Camera performance\u00a0<\/li>\n6. Benchmark performance<\/li>\n7. Battery life<\/li>\n8. Conclusion<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\nAn AI that actually helps you?<\/h2>\nBy now, enough people have experienced AI fatigue; it makes Samsung<\/b>\u2019s grand marketing plan of calling the Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/b> an \u201cAI Phone\u201d all the more confusing. If it were up to us, we wouldn\u2019t try to sell a phone by reminding users of the tool that threatens their rice bowl and causing lopsided expectations at work. Surely, it\u2019s a mistake, right?<\/p>\n\nSamsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, front.<\/p>\nPhoto: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nOn the contrary, Samsung thinks the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s trinity of Galaxy AI<\/b>, Google Gemini, and Perplexity comes together to accomplish \u201cAI for everyday life\u201d, making the phone more enjoyable to use. Not by exploitation, but by the reduction of daily drudgery. <\/p>\nThis is on top of expected hardware upgrades (like Qualcomm\u2019s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/b>) and unexpected ones (Privacy Display<\/b>, 60W<\/b> wired charging, and more).<\/p>\nAre a handful of new parts and software wizardry enough to justify its S$1,828 starting price? Here are our thoughts, in full.<\/p>\nSamsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet<\/h2>\n\nGalaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 6.9-inch display.<\/p>\nPhoto: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIf you\u2019ve been following various content creators and tech publications on social media, you\u2019d know that arguably the most important new feature on the Galaxy S26 Ultra lies within its display.<\/p>\n<\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While it\u2019s still a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, Samsung has added<b> Privacy Display<\/b>. To put it briefly, it\u2019s a feature that limits viewing angles to mitigate <u>shoulder surfing<\/u>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Normal view. Privacy Display is disabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You can toggle it on\/off, customise it to trigger on specific apps or credentials (passwords, PINs, etc.), and choose between \u201cregular\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy protection (more on that in a bit).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display (maximum) is enabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We know it\u2019s hardware-based technology because of Samsung\u2019s Privacy Display explainer. When the feature is enabled, it dims the pixels responsible for amazing viewing angles (the brand calls them \u201cwide pixels\u201d). The only pixels left activated are the forward-facing ones with narrower viewing angles.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1152\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=2000&q=85 2000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;contain-intrinsic-size:2048px 1152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung explains how Privacy Display is possible on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Image: Samsung<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Hence, the \u201cnormal\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy levels you choose are derived from the dimming intensity of those wide pixels. To a <i>kaypoh<\/i> bystander, \u201cmaximum\u201d looks as if the Galaxy S26 Ultra user is smiling or laughing at a blank, greyish screen.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display settings and adjustments.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who don\u2019t see why Privacy Display is a smarter solution than similar screen protectors, we\u2019d like to offer that it\u2019s quite a tidy feature if you\u2019re nitpicky. For instance, we loved the <b>selective dimming of notification pop-ups and certain apps<\/b>. It was helpful when watching videos during a commute, and it doesn\u2019t sacrifice the display\u2019s clarity too much. It\u2019s made sweeter by how the commuter next to us doesn\u2019t get to see our messages, inbox, or pop-ups. <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who are concerned about who is watching their screens, Privacy Display is easily one of the biggest and most important new features to appear in a phone. It could even be enough to persuade some users to upgrade to the S26 Ultra \u2013 it\u2019s that good.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X still lives up to its reputation of being colour accurate, bright, and sharp, even under Singapore\u2019s unforgiving sunlight.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Making the Privacy Display a feature exclusive to the Ultra is fine for now, but given all the talk about how user privacy is important for its customers, it would be fantastic if Samsung extends this feature to its Base and Plus models in the future. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-more-useful-galaxy-ai\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">A more useful Galaxy AI<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Now Brief, via Galaxy AI.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve already covered new Galaxy AI updates in great detail here. There\u2019s a lot to go through if you want to get into the nitty-gritty about what\u2019s added or improved. Here, we look at its viability and mileage.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You may have noticed that Samsung has moved past showing off AI as a new technology and is focusing on making more helpful products with a minimal learning curve. Some Galaxy AI examples are reinventions of the wheel, but they are highly effective, as seen in some examples we\u2019ve fleshed out below.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Call Screening<\/b> is a more advanced version of voicemail from the 90s. It\u2019s one of our favourite Galaxy AI features because of many reasons: if you\u2019re old enough to remember (or if you pay attention to your telco plans), voicemail is usually a paid subscription, and you still have to sit through the recording to grasp key information.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Call Screening eschews all of that by combining several AI-powered functions into one convenient experience: you get AI-transcribed copy on your display so you can tell if it\u2019s a robocall or scam call, and it even turns the tables back on them by putting the Galaxy AI assistant in charge of sussing out the details. All of this is available via Galaxy AI without paying for another subscription. That said, it would be remiss of us not to mention that Apple introduced a similar feature in iOS 26.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re multilingual (or expect important calls to come in multiple languages), be sure to download multiple language packs for Call Screening (under<i> Settings > Galaxy AI > Call Assist > Call Screening<\/i>). <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Of course, not every Samsung AI-powered feature is a one-hit wonder. We found it odd that <b>Document Scan <\/b>was smart enough to remove creases and fingers, but somehow didn\u2019t automatically correct the tilt and orientation of documents.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Generative Edit has many tools including text prompts for image creation now.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While we can argue all day about the ethical concerns of features such as <b>Generative Edit and Photo Assist<\/b>, there\u2019s no question that they can be immensely useful if used in a right-minded and principled way. Plus, it must be said that even if Samsung did not offer these features in an integrated manner, users could have easily resorted to third-party apps. In that sense, one could perhaps applaud Samsung for sparing users the trouble of having to scour the app store for third-party solutions, which could have even more lackadaisical approaches to privacy and even more lax guardrails on what kinds of edits users can do to photos.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Resulting image from above text prompt.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s these little things that make the difference in a smooth user experience with <b>reduced cognitive burden<\/b>. From another perspective, it\u2019s quite remarkable to see how far Samsung has come from being a brand once famous for bloatware to now offering add-ons that people actually want and use.<\/p>\n<p><iframe class=\"_base_1xuyu_1 _tiktok_1xuyu_26\" title=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed\/v2\/7610904990189669653\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.5625\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As such, Galaxy AI is making significant strides in refining and adding AI features that make sense, and we hope this continues to the benefit of Galaxy mobile users.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"we-didn-t-forget-the-s-pen\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">We didn\u2019t forget the S Pen<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, side, with S Pen removed.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Functionally, the <b>S Pen <\/b>on Galaxy S26 Ultra remained the same as last year\u2019s. We\u2019re glad that Samsung didn\u2019t nerf the stylus any further, but it\u2019s a real shame our favourite feature (using the S Pen as a remote shutter for the camera) isn\u2019t back either.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">S Pen menu and settings.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The S Pen changes made were mostly physical. Besides improving how the stylus smells right out of its holster, the clicker also follows the phone\u2019s shape, making it asymmetrical. We actually found it really disruptive when putting away the S Pen now, given that previous S Pens didn\u2019t insist on a \u201ccorrect\u201d way to reinsert them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"camera-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Camera performance\u00a0<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rear cameras.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While the ultrawide and 3x optical zoom telephoto remained unchanged from the previous Ultra, the 200MP main and 50MP 5x optical zoom telephoto both got faster lenses that let the sensor capture more light:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">Main camera went to f\/1.4, wider than its previous f\/1.7<\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">5x telephoto camera is now f\/2.9, wider than its past f\/3.4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve captured the essence of <u>Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s camera performance in this detailed hands-on experience<\/u>, so the findings, such as handling of contrast, noise, and colourisation, are discussed there. The photos we shared really speak for themselves.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As a whole, the point-and-shoot experience is noticeably better in low-light or dark conditions because of the faster lenses. It affects the automatic shutter speed. Where quick, clear, and sharp photos are important, you\u2019re less likely to get it wrong on the first try.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung S26 Ultra main camera sample\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The S26 Ultra takes nice photos. Taken with the main camera at 1x.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Pretty pictures aside, the S26 Ultra also serves up impressive video stabilisation with a new feature called <b>Horizon Lock<\/b>. This feature is disabled by default, but once you activate it, you will be astounded by just how well it stabilises your footage. Even turning your phone upside down doesn\u2019t seem to have much of an impact on your recording. Clearly, there\u2019s a lot of processing at work, and the end result is undeniably impressive.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"benchmark-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Benchmark performance<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The processor platform on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the <b><u>Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/u><\/b>. It\u2019s extremely similar to the <u>standard version<\/u> launched in late 2025, except that those made for Galaxy S26 Ultra phones have slightly higher clock rates. From our monitoring apps, the prime cores are 0.12GHz faster, while the other six efficiency cores are 0.01GHz faster.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Since this processor was designed for 2026 premium flagship Android phones (and beyond), not many phones would have it this early in the year. Rival brands carrying the vanilla flavour of this chip include the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. While <u>OPPO Find X9 Pro<\/u> does have a 2026 flagship-grade processor <u>(Dimensity 9500<\/u>), that\u2019s from Qualcomm\u2019s rival, MediaTek.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s interesting that the Galaxy S26 Ultra dissipates heat in an unconventional manner. Instead of the back of the phone getting hot, the heat comes from the sides, just above your physical buttons. Performance-wise, the numbers clearly show that it\u2019s a beast that supports the phone\u2019s premium positioning.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"battery-life\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Battery life<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Our battery benchmark uses PCMark for Android\u2019s Work 3.0 Battery Life, with results shown in minutes. This controlled benchmark simulates real-world usage, such as web and social media browsing, video and photo editing, parsing data with various file formats, writing, and more. The test starts at 100% and ends with 20% left on the device.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1309\" height=\"809\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d 1309w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6180469715698393;contain-intrinsic-size:1309px 809px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Battery uptime in minutes, Galaxy S26 Ultra at the top.<\/p>\n<p>Image: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is back with a <b>5,000mAh<\/b> battery, and it lasted just over 17 hours. This is over 100 minutes longer-lasting than its predecessor, which is a significant improvement.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">However, the development of silicone-carbon batteries in the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra are starting to see progress, which explains why the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 5,000mAh is falling behind the 6,800~7,100mAh Chinese handsets. That said, having a 36~42% smaller mAh capacity didn\u2019t stop the Galaxy S26 Ultra from getting 17 hours on the same benchmark, so it’s still efficient even if it\u2019s not new.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Perhaps it\u2019s time for Samsung to start exploring silicone-carbon battery technology as well.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The sleeper upgrade, however, is Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s wired charging. Samsung has finally given it <b>60W<\/b> <b>charging <\/b>(up from the old 45W). Under the right conditions, such as a low state of charge and a compatible third-party charger, it could draw over 50W and regain as much as 10% charge in as little as 3 minutes. It didn\u2019t take more than 20 minutes to reach the first 50%, and it took a little under one hour to reach full charge. We feel this is Samsung\u2019s fastest-charging Ultra phone to date, and the time saved on waiting is a true perk.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It would have been a nice touch if the brand had included its own charging adapter (worth S$68) to showcase how quickly the Galaxy S26 Ultra can be refuelled. Fortunately, there\u2019s no shortage of compatible third-party chargers out there.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Additionally, it can now charge wirelessly at a faster rate of up to 25W (up from 15W). This new wireless charging speed implies it supports Qi 2.2, since the older Qi wireless technologies can only pull a little over 15W at their peak. Our gripe is that there\u2019s no charging puck or magnet built into the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which means you’ll need a compatible phone case to use its new wireless charging speeds.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who want that convenience, we\u2019ve also put together <u>a collection of wireless charging accessories here<\/u> for your consideration.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Like all technologies and tools that came before it, generative AI\u2019s promises and expectations are still largely shaped by human limitations and greed.<b> It falls upon us to decide whether AI is for milking the last possible ounce of profit, or for improving our quality of life<\/b>. What we didn\u2019t expect was Samsung being the one to show us that the latter is possible, and especially not through its latest premium flagship smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, USB-C port and S Pen holster.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">On the surface, it looks like Samsung played it safe with the Galaxy S26 Ultra by making it difficult to distinguish from its predecessor. Its hardware doesn\u2019t seem that much different. That is, until you actively use the phone and realise you could never go back \u2013 even if its predecessor was the gold standard in premium Android handsets.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, face down.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As befits a flagship-class phone, it\u2019s a given that performance and battery life should be improved, and this phone achieves that in some ways, even if the gains are incremental. What\u2019s arguably more important is that Samsung chose to make its mark by going beyond the confines of a phone. We note the combined effort of third-party AI collaboration, Galaxy AI, and a selective approach to upgrading tools has worked well, because the current crop of Galaxy AI features is consistent in trying to help free your time up for more important stuff.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Even its non-AI upgrades (Privacy Display and 60W charging) follow the same train of thought. Why trouble yourself to go hunt down another privacy screen protector when you can just turn the feature on? And why should charging your phone take longer than the time it takes you to have a shower?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra with S Pen.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">They are not just shortcuts or conveniences for their own sake. Perhaps more importantly, Samsung\u2019s approach is refreshing, especially in light of the current crop of \u201cAI-enabled phones\u201d that often feel incomplete or patronising.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If anything, it\u2019s unfortunate that Samsung marketed this phone as an \u201cAI Phone\u201d, given the mixed opinions about what AI can do and has done to people, and its somewhat negative connotations. In giving us the Galaxy S26 Ultra, its software and hardware teams deserve massive kudos for actually trying to upgrade users\u2019 lives instead of flexing on them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">There\u2019s plenty to pick on if you\u2019re out for Samsung\u2019s blood, too. The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at <b>S$1,828 <\/b>(256GB), which is really pricey even by premium standards. For that amount of money, you\u2019d think Samsung would at least include a charging adapter, or implement wireless charging without needing a separate phone case. S Pen, an iconic USP of Samsung\u2019s best phone, has had no meaningful updates since losing its Bluetooth or battery capabilities last year. Despite these grievances, the rest of the phone stays and works exceptionally well, and exceeds typical Android phone experiences.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, rear.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The age of AI has upended traditional drivers of society, so much so that bigger or newer isn\u2019t necessarily better any more. With AI becoming increasingly inescapable, the way people balance authenticity with outcomes has shifted, creating both uncertainty and renewed expectations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is probably the first AI-enabled smartphone that didn\u2019t make us roll our eyes, even if its \u201cAI Phone\u201d mantra initially did. The overall upgrades and package offer mileage far beyond what an extra nit of brightness or a drop of milliampere can pull off. That says a lot about the authenticity and quality-of-life improvements it has delivered.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/b>\u00a0is available in Cobalt Violet, Black, Sky Blue, and White, while its online-exclusive colours on Samsung Online Store and Samsung Shop app are Pink Gold and Silver Shadow. Prices are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 256GB – <b>S$1,828<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 512GB – <b>S$2,128<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">16GB + 1TB – <b>S$2,578<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re looking to buy one, click here.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hardwarezone.com.sg\/mobile\/smartphones\/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-review-price-specs-battery-life-camera-display\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Read Full Article At Source <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Article Jump List 1. An AI that actually helps you? 2. Samsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet 3. A more useful Galaxy AI 4….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":36993,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[32],"tags":[1672,402,723,28,4755,1585,158,1887],"class_list":["post-36992","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tech-gadgets-reviews","tag-galaxy","tag-life","tag-phone","tag-review","tag-s26","tag-samsung","tag-ultra","tag-upgrade","wpcat-32-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=36992"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/36993"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=36992"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=36992"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=36992"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
By now, enough people have experienced AI fatigue; it makes Samsung<\/b>\u2019s grand marketing plan of calling the Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/b> an \u201cAI Phone\u201d all the more confusing. If it were up to us, we wouldn\u2019t try to sell a phone by reminding users of the tool that threatens their rice bowl and causing lopsided expectations at work. Surely, it\u2019s a mistake, right?<\/p>\n\nSamsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, front.<\/p>\nPhoto: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nOn the contrary, Samsung thinks the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s trinity of Galaxy AI<\/b>, Google Gemini, and Perplexity comes together to accomplish \u201cAI for everyday life\u201d, making the phone more enjoyable to use. Not by exploitation, but by the reduction of daily drudgery. <\/p>\nThis is on top of expected hardware upgrades (like Qualcomm\u2019s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/b>) and unexpected ones (Privacy Display<\/b>, 60W<\/b> wired charging, and more).<\/p>\nAre a handful of new parts and software wizardry enough to justify its S$1,828 starting price? Here are our thoughts, in full.<\/p>\nSamsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet<\/h2>\n\nGalaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 6.9-inch display.<\/p>\nPhoto: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIf you\u2019ve been following various content creators and tech publications on social media, you\u2019d know that arguably the most important new feature on the Galaxy S26 Ultra lies within its display.<\/p>\n<\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While it\u2019s still a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, Samsung has added<b> Privacy Display<\/b>. To put it briefly, it\u2019s a feature that limits viewing angles to mitigate <u>shoulder surfing<\/u>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Normal view. Privacy Display is disabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You can toggle it on\/off, customise it to trigger on specific apps or credentials (passwords, PINs, etc.), and choose between \u201cregular\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy protection (more on that in a bit).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display (maximum) is enabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We know it\u2019s hardware-based technology because of Samsung\u2019s Privacy Display explainer. When the feature is enabled, it dims the pixels responsible for amazing viewing angles (the brand calls them \u201cwide pixels\u201d). The only pixels left activated are the forward-facing ones with narrower viewing angles.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1152\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=2000&q=85 2000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;contain-intrinsic-size:2048px 1152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung explains how Privacy Display is possible on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Image: Samsung<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Hence, the \u201cnormal\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy levels you choose are derived from the dimming intensity of those wide pixels. To a <i>kaypoh<\/i> bystander, \u201cmaximum\u201d looks as if the Galaxy S26 Ultra user is smiling or laughing at a blank, greyish screen.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display settings and adjustments.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who don\u2019t see why Privacy Display is a smarter solution than similar screen protectors, we\u2019d like to offer that it\u2019s quite a tidy feature if you\u2019re nitpicky. For instance, we loved the <b>selective dimming of notification pop-ups and certain apps<\/b>. It was helpful when watching videos during a commute, and it doesn\u2019t sacrifice the display\u2019s clarity too much. It\u2019s made sweeter by how the commuter next to us doesn\u2019t get to see our messages, inbox, or pop-ups. <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who are concerned about who is watching their screens, Privacy Display is easily one of the biggest and most important new features to appear in a phone. It could even be enough to persuade some users to upgrade to the S26 Ultra \u2013 it\u2019s that good.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X still lives up to its reputation of being colour accurate, bright, and sharp, even under Singapore\u2019s unforgiving sunlight.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Making the Privacy Display a feature exclusive to the Ultra is fine for now, but given all the talk about how user privacy is important for its customers, it would be fantastic if Samsung extends this feature to its Base and Plus models in the future. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-more-useful-galaxy-ai\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">A more useful Galaxy AI<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Now Brief, via Galaxy AI.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve already covered new Galaxy AI updates in great detail here. There\u2019s a lot to go through if you want to get into the nitty-gritty about what\u2019s added or improved. Here, we look at its viability and mileage.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You may have noticed that Samsung has moved past showing off AI as a new technology and is focusing on making more helpful products with a minimal learning curve. Some Galaxy AI examples are reinventions of the wheel, but they are highly effective, as seen in some examples we\u2019ve fleshed out below.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Call Screening<\/b> is a more advanced version of voicemail from the 90s. It\u2019s one of our favourite Galaxy AI features because of many reasons: if you\u2019re old enough to remember (or if you pay attention to your telco plans), voicemail is usually a paid subscription, and you still have to sit through the recording to grasp key information.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Call Screening eschews all of that by combining several AI-powered functions into one convenient experience: you get AI-transcribed copy on your display so you can tell if it\u2019s a robocall or scam call, and it even turns the tables back on them by putting the Galaxy AI assistant in charge of sussing out the details. All of this is available via Galaxy AI without paying for another subscription. That said, it would be remiss of us not to mention that Apple introduced a similar feature in iOS 26.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re multilingual (or expect important calls to come in multiple languages), be sure to download multiple language packs for Call Screening (under<i> Settings > Galaxy AI > Call Assist > Call Screening<\/i>). <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Of course, not every Samsung AI-powered feature is a one-hit wonder. We found it odd that <b>Document Scan <\/b>was smart enough to remove creases and fingers, but somehow didn\u2019t automatically correct the tilt and orientation of documents.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Generative Edit has many tools including text prompts for image creation now.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While we can argue all day about the ethical concerns of features such as <b>Generative Edit and Photo Assist<\/b>, there\u2019s no question that they can be immensely useful if used in a right-minded and principled way. Plus, it must be said that even if Samsung did not offer these features in an integrated manner, users could have easily resorted to third-party apps. In that sense, one could perhaps applaud Samsung for sparing users the trouble of having to scour the app store for third-party solutions, which could have even more lackadaisical approaches to privacy and even more lax guardrails on what kinds of edits users can do to photos.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Resulting image from above text prompt.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s these little things that make the difference in a smooth user experience with <b>reduced cognitive burden<\/b>. From another perspective, it\u2019s quite remarkable to see how far Samsung has come from being a brand once famous for bloatware to now offering add-ons that people actually want and use.<\/p>\n<p><iframe class=\"_base_1xuyu_1 _tiktok_1xuyu_26\" title=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed\/v2\/7610904990189669653\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.5625\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As such, Galaxy AI is making significant strides in refining and adding AI features that make sense, and we hope this continues to the benefit of Galaxy mobile users.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"we-didn-t-forget-the-s-pen\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">We didn\u2019t forget the S Pen<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, side, with S Pen removed.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Functionally, the <b>S Pen <\/b>on Galaxy S26 Ultra remained the same as last year\u2019s. We\u2019re glad that Samsung didn\u2019t nerf the stylus any further, but it\u2019s a real shame our favourite feature (using the S Pen as a remote shutter for the camera) isn\u2019t back either.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">S Pen menu and settings.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The S Pen changes made were mostly physical. Besides improving how the stylus smells right out of its holster, the clicker also follows the phone\u2019s shape, making it asymmetrical. We actually found it really disruptive when putting away the S Pen now, given that previous S Pens didn\u2019t insist on a \u201ccorrect\u201d way to reinsert them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"camera-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Camera performance\u00a0<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rear cameras.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While the ultrawide and 3x optical zoom telephoto remained unchanged from the previous Ultra, the 200MP main and 50MP 5x optical zoom telephoto both got faster lenses that let the sensor capture more light:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">Main camera went to f\/1.4, wider than its previous f\/1.7<\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">5x telephoto camera is now f\/2.9, wider than its past f\/3.4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve captured the essence of <u>Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s camera performance in this detailed hands-on experience<\/u>, so the findings, such as handling of contrast, noise, and colourisation, are discussed there. The photos we shared really speak for themselves.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As a whole, the point-and-shoot experience is noticeably better in low-light or dark conditions because of the faster lenses. It affects the automatic shutter speed. Where quick, clear, and sharp photos are important, you\u2019re less likely to get it wrong on the first try.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung S26 Ultra main camera sample\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The S26 Ultra takes nice photos. Taken with the main camera at 1x.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Pretty pictures aside, the S26 Ultra also serves up impressive video stabilisation with a new feature called <b>Horizon Lock<\/b>. This feature is disabled by default, but once you activate it, you will be astounded by just how well it stabilises your footage. Even turning your phone upside down doesn\u2019t seem to have much of an impact on your recording. Clearly, there\u2019s a lot of processing at work, and the end result is undeniably impressive.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"benchmark-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Benchmark performance<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The processor platform on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the <b><u>Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/u><\/b>. It\u2019s extremely similar to the <u>standard version<\/u> launched in late 2025, except that those made for Galaxy S26 Ultra phones have slightly higher clock rates. From our monitoring apps, the prime cores are 0.12GHz faster, while the other six efficiency cores are 0.01GHz faster.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Since this processor was designed for 2026 premium flagship Android phones (and beyond), not many phones would have it this early in the year. Rival brands carrying the vanilla flavour of this chip include the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. While <u>OPPO Find X9 Pro<\/u> does have a 2026 flagship-grade processor <u>(Dimensity 9500<\/u>), that\u2019s from Qualcomm\u2019s rival, MediaTek.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s interesting that the Galaxy S26 Ultra dissipates heat in an unconventional manner. Instead of the back of the phone getting hot, the heat comes from the sides, just above your physical buttons. Performance-wise, the numbers clearly show that it\u2019s a beast that supports the phone\u2019s premium positioning.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"battery-life\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Battery life<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Our battery benchmark uses PCMark for Android\u2019s Work 3.0 Battery Life, with results shown in minutes. This controlled benchmark simulates real-world usage, such as web and social media browsing, video and photo editing, parsing data with various file formats, writing, and more. The test starts at 100% and ends with 20% left on the device.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1309\" height=\"809\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d 1309w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6180469715698393;contain-intrinsic-size:1309px 809px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Battery uptime in minutes, Galaxy S26 Ultra at the top.<\/p>\n<p>Image: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is back with a <b>5,000mAh<\/b> battery, and it lasted just over 17 hours. This is over 100 minutes longer-lasting than its predecessor, which is a significant improvement.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">However, the development of silicone-carbon batteries in the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra are starting to see progress, which explains why the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 5,000mAh is falling behind the 6,800~7,100mAh Chinese handsets. That said, having a 36~42% smaller mAh capacity didn\u2019t stop the Galaxy S26 Ultra from getting 17 hours on the same benchmark, so it’s still efficient even if it\u2019s not new.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Perhaps it\u2019s time for Samsung to start exploring silicone-carbon battery technology as well.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The sleeper upgrade, however, is Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s wired charging. Samsung has finally given it <b>60W<\/b> <b>charging <\/b>(up from the old 45W). Under the right conditions, such as a low state of charge and a compatible third-party charger, it could draw over 50W and regain as much as 10% charge in as little as 3 minutes. It didn\u2019t take more than 20 minutes to reach the first 50%, and it took a little under one hour to reach full charge. We feel this is Samsung\u2019s fastest-charging Ultra phone to date, and the time saved on waiting is a true perk.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It would have been a nice touch if the brand had included its own charging adapter (worth S$68) to showcase how quickly the Galaxy S26 Ultra can be refuelled. Fortunately, there\u2019s no shortage of compatible third-party chargers out there.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Additionally, it can now charge wirelessly at a faster rate of up to 25W (up from 15W). This new wireless charging speed implies it supports Qi 2.2, since the older Qi wireless technologies can only pull a little over 15W at their peak. Our gripe is that there\u2019s no charging puck or magnet built into the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which means you’ll need a compatible phone case to use its new wireless charging speeds.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who want that convenience, we\u2019ve also put together <u>a collection of wireless charging accessories here<\/u> for your consideration.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Like all technologies and tools that came before it, generative AI\u2019s promises and expectations are still largely shaped by human limitations and greed.<b> It falls upon us to decide whether AI is for milking the last possible ounce of profit, or for improving our quality of life<\/b>. What we didn\u2019t expect was Samsung being the one to show us that the latter is possible, and especially not through its latest premium flagship smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, USB-C port and S Pen holster.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">On the surface, it looks like Samsung played it safe with the Galaxy S26 Ultra by making it difficult to distinguish from its predecessor. Its hardware doesn\u2019t seem that much different. That is, until you actively use the phone and realise you could never go back \u2013 even if its predecessor was the gold standard in premium Android handsets.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, face down.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As befits a flagship-class phone, it\u2019s a given that performance and battery life should be improved, and this phone achieves that in some ways, even if the gains are incremental. What\u2019s arguably more important is that Samsung chose to make its mark by going beyond the confines of a phone. We note the combined effort of third-party AI collaboration, Galaxy AI, and a selective approach to upgrading tools has worked well, because the current crop of Galaxy AI features is consistent in trying to help free your time up for more important stuff.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Even its non-AI upgrades (Privacy Display and 60W charging) follow the same train of thought. Why trouble yourself to go hunt down another privacy screen protector when you can just turn the feature on? And why should charging your phone take longer than the time it takes you to have a shower?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra with S Pen.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">They are not just shortcuts or conveniences for their own sake. Perhaps more importantly, Samsung\u2019s approach is refreshing, especially in light of the current crop of \u201cAI-enabled phones\u201d that often feel incomplete or patronising.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If anything, it\u2019s unfortunate that Samsung marketed this phone as an \u201cAI Phone\u201d, given the mixed opinions about what AI can do and has done to people, and its somewhat negative connotations. In giving us the Galaxy S26 Ultra, its software and hardware teams deserve massive kudos for actually trying to upgrade users\u2019 lives instead of flexing on them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">There\u2019s plenty to pick on if you\u2019re out for Samsung\u2019s blood, too. The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at <b>S$1,828 <\/b>(256GB), which is really pricey even by premium standards. For that amount of money, you\u2019d think Samsung would at least include a charging adapter, or implement wireless charging without needing a separate phone case. S Pen, an iconic USP of Samsung\u2019s best phone, has had no meaningful updates since losing its Bluetooth or battery capabilities last year. Despite these grievances, the rest of the phone stays and works exceptionally well, and exceeds typical Android phone experiences.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, rear.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The age of AI has upended traditional drivers of society, so much so that bigger or newer isn\u2019t necessarily better any more. With AI becoming increasingly inescapable, the way people balance authenticity with outcomes has shifted, creating both uncertainty and renewed expectations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is probably the first AI-enabled smartphone that didn\u2019t make us roll our eyes, even if its \u201cAI Phone\u201d mantra initially did. The overall upgrades and package offer mileage far beyond what an extra nit of brightness or a drop of milliampere can pull off. That says a lot about the authenticity and quality-of-life improvements it has delivered.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/b>\u00a0is available in Cobalt Violet, Black, Sky Blue, and White, while its online-exclusive colours on Samsung Online Store and Samsung Shop app are Pink Gold and Silver Shadow. Prices are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 256GB – <b>S$1,828<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 512GB – <b>S$2,128<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">16GB + 1TB – <b>S$2,578<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re looking to buy one, click here.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hardwarezone.com.sg\/mobile\/smartphones\/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-review-price-specs-battery-life-camera-display\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Read Full Article At Source <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Article Jump List 1. An AI that actually helps you? 2. Samsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet 3. A more useful Galaxy AI 4….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":36993,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[32],"tags":[1672,402,723,28,4755,1585,158,1887],"class_list":["post-36992","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tech-gadgets-reviews","tag-galaxy","tag-life","tag-phone","tag-review","tag-s26","tag-samsung","tag-ultra","tag-upgrade","wpcat-32-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=36992"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/36993"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=36992"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=36992"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=36992"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, front.<\/p>\n
Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
On the contrary, Samsung thinks the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s trinity of Galaxy AI<\/b>, Google Gemini, and Perplexity comes together to accomplish \u201cAI for everyday life\u201d, making the phone more enjoyable to use. Not by exploitation, but by the reduction of daily drudgery. <\/p>\n
This is on top of expected hardware upgrades (like Qualcomm\u2019s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/b>) and unexpected ones (Privacy Display<\/b>, 60W<\/b> wired charging, and more).<\/p>\n
Are a handful of new parts and software wizardry enough to justify its S$1,828 starting price? Here are our thoughts, in full.<\/p>\n
Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 6.9-inch display.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019ve been following various content creators and tech publications on social media, you\u2019d know that arguably the most important new feature on the Galaxy S26 Ultra lies within its display.<\/p>\n
<\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While it\u2019s still a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, Samsung has added<b> Privacy Display<\/b>. To put it briefly, it\u2019s a feature that limits viewing angles to mitigate <u>shoulder surfing<\/u>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/227391cf53c7ab6fe773db0e7b7ff37696ddb8478baf6a29f226cc26db24b227?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Normal view. Privacy Display is disabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You can toggle it on\/off, customise it to trigger on specific apps or credentials (passwords, PINs, etc.), and choose between \u201cregular\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy protection (more on that in a bit).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/bfcc1ccccae7f92240a18b20a5064e492d20205733333affd6e0195b66008871?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display (maximum) is enabled.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We know it\u2019s hardware-based technology because of Samsung\u2019s Privacy Display explainer. When the feature is enabled, it dims the pixels responsible for amazing viewing angles (the brand calls them \u201cwide pixels\u201d). The only pixels left activated are the forward-facing ones with narrower viewing angles.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1152\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=2000&q=85 2000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/2763698c8b9a9f8da3c18149edd287fa338feacbed636b4f67e44164fa687dd4?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;contain-intrinsic-size:2048px 1152px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung explains how Privacy Display is possible on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Image: Samsung<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Hence, the \u201cnormal\u201d and \u201cmaximum\u201d privacy levels you choose are derived from the dimming intensity of those wide pixels. To a <i>kaypoh<\/i> bystander, \u201cmaximum\u201d looks as if the Galaxy S26 Ultra user is smiling or laughing at a blank, greyish screen.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/e6b613e96a61213475f6db6b868e3434f97af115016bb4473d83d981d9bd99d6?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Privacy Display settings and adjustments.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who don\u2019t see why Privacy Display is a smarter solution than similar screen protectors, we\u2019d like to offer that it\u2019s quite a tidy feature if you\u2019re nitpicky. For instance, we loved the <b>selective dimming of notification pop-ups and certain apps<\/b>. It was helpful when watching videos during a commute, and it doesn\u2019t sacrifice the display\u2019s clarity too much. It\u2019s made sweeter by how the commuter next to us doesn\u2019t get to see our messages, inbox, or pop-ups. <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who are concerned about who is watching their screens, Privacy Display is easily one of the biggest and most important new features to appear in a phone. It could even be enough to persuade some users to upgrade to the S26 Ultra \u2013 it\u2019s that good.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/d43ca00cfb4463589a3b4779b9d6a6408ddc8dc081cc439e9f55eac11f431f4d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X still lives up to its reputation of being colour accurate, bright, and sharp, even under Singapore\u2019s unforgiving sunlight.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Making the Privacy Display a feature exclusive to the Ultra is fine for now, but given all the talk about how user privacy is important for its customers, it would be fantastic if Samsung extends this feature to its Base and Plus models in the future. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-more-useful-galaxy-ai\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">A more useful Galaxy AI<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/aa33a1912a08d57b0234ea2520f0f26c0ae4ef2c877e1b407bcc8195dc3f674a?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Now Brief, via Galaxy AI.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve already covered new Galaxy AI updates in great detail here. There\u2019s a lot to go through if you want to get into the nitty-gritty about what\u2019s added or improved. Here, we look at its viability and mileage.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">You may have noticed that Samsung has moved past showing off AI as a new technology and is focusing on making more helpful products with a minimal learning curve. Some Galaxy AI examples are reinventions of the wheel, but they are highly effective, as seen in some examples we\u2019ve fleshed out below.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Call Screening<\/b> is a more advanced version of voicemail from the 90s. It\u2019s one of our favourite Galaxy AI features because of many reasons: if you\u2019re old enough to remember (or if you pay attention to your telco plans), voicemail is usually a paid subscription, and you still have to sit through the recording to grasp key information.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Call Screening eschews all of that by combining several AI-powered functions into one convenient experience: you get AI-transcribed copy on your display so you can tell if it\u2019s a robocall or scam call, and it even turns the tables back on them by putting the Galaxy AI assistant in charge of sussing out the details. All of this is available via Galaxy AI without paying for another subscription. That said, it would be remiss of us not to mention that Apple introduced a similar feature in iOS 26.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re multilingual (or expect important calls to come in multiple languages), be sure to download multiple language packs for Call Screening (under<i> Settings > Galaxy AI > Call Assist > Call Screening<\/i>). <\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Of course, not every Samsung AI-powered feature is a one-hit wonder. We found it odd that <b>Document Scan <\/b>was smart enough to remove creases and fingers, but somehow didn\u2019t automatically correct the tilt and orientation of documents.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/85d4d17ad0bd4fa6977469a9779a402ce3d945f705b09759fba27c9a9af1def7?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Generative Edit has many tools including text prompts for image creation now.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While we can argue all day about the ethical concerns of features such as <b>Generative Edit and Photo Assist<\/b>, there\u2019s no question that they can be immensely useful if used in a right-minded and principled way. Plus, it must be said that even if Samsung did not offer these features in an integrated manner, users could have easily resorted to third-party apps. In that sense, one could perhaps applaud Samsung for sparing users the trouble of having to scour the app store for third-party solutions, which could have even more lackadaisical approaches to privacy and even more lax guardrails on what kinds of edits users can do to photos.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7a1504b04c40f100970d71bad72929354f5350caa745d59d35c5ea0ad7b1e069?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Resulting image from above text prompt.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s these little things that make the difference in a smooth user experience with <b>reduced cognitive burden<\/b>. From another perspective, it\u2019s quite remarkable to see how far Samsung has come from being a brand once famous for bloatware to now offering add-ons that people actually want and use.<\/p>\n<p><iframe class=\"_base_1xuyu_1 _tiktok_1xuyu_26\" title=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed\/v2\/7610904990189669653\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.5625\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As such, Galaxy AI is making significant strides in refining and adding AI features that make sense, and we hope this continues to the benefit of Galaxy mobile users.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"we-didn-t-forget-the-s-pen\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">We didn\u2019t forget the S Pen<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/651012be79118954e6a4745262272b8b0a8c5e47e8852a3839fd19647d9db59d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, side, with S Pen removed.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Functionally, the <b>S Pen <\/b>on Galaxy S26 Ultra remained the same as last year\u2019s. We\u2019re glad that Samsung didn\u2019t nerf the stylus any further, but it\u2019s a real shame our favourite feature (using the S Pen as a remote shutter for the camera) isn\u2019t back either.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/24e1ef70e866a43c983b5a7238393bdb37a59af24af39ed17627a20c38ba60a9?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">S Pen menu and settings.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The S Pen changes made were mostly physical. Besides improving how the stylus smells right out of its holster, the clicker also follows the phone\u2019s shape, making it asymmetrical. We actually found it really disruptive when putting away the S Pen now, given that previous S Pens didn\u2019t insist on a \u201ccorrect\u201d way to reinsert them.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"camera-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Camera performance\u00a0<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/f220ee42fcb2da913c1e3ed54efa892bed4c6863a9cfb412b87a8dc0dcc1eecb?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra rear cameras.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">While the ultrawide and 3x optical zoom telephoto remained unchanged from the previous Ultra, the 200MP main and 50MP 5x optical zoom telephoto both got faster lenses that let the sensor capture more light:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">Main camera went to f\/1.4, wider than its previous f\/1.7<\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">5x telephoto camera is now f\/2.9, wider than its past f\/3.4<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">We\u2019ve captured the essence of <u>Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s camera performance in this detailed hands-on experience<\/u>, so the findings, such as handling of contrast, noise, and colourisation, are discussed there. The photos we shared really speak for themselves.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As a whole, the point-and-shoot experience is noticeably better in low-light or dark conditions because of the faster lenses. It affects the automatic shutter speed. Where quick, clear, and sharp photos are important, you\u2019re less likely to get it wrong on the first try.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung S26 Ultra main camera sample\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1140\" height=\"760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48 1140w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/04dda58889ce82e4a6e016e05bd442fecb167c0998151befba3ee856a5b78e48?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.5;contain-intrinsic-size:1140px 760px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">The S26 Ultra takes nice photos. Taken with the main camera at 1x.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Pretty pictures aside, the S26 Ultra also serves up impressive video stabilisation with a new feature called <b>Horizon Lock<\/b>. This feature is disabled by default, but once you activate it, you will be astounded by just how well it stabilises your footage. Even turning your phone upside down doesn\u2019t seem to have much of an impact on your recording. Clearly, there\u2019s a lot of processing at work, and the end result is undeniably impressive.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"benchmark-performance\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Benchmark performance<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The processor platform on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the <b><u>Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy<\/u><\/b>. It\u2019s extremely similar to the <u>standard version<\/u> launched in late 2025, except that those made for Galaxy S26 Ultra phones have slightly higher clock rates. From our monitoring apps, the prime cores are 0.12GHz faster, while the other six efficiency cores are 0.01GHz faster.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Since this processor was designed for 2026 premium flagship Android phones (and beyond), not many phones would have it this early in the year. Rival brands carrying the vanilla flavour of this chip include the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. While <u>OPPO Find X9 Pro<\/u> does have a 2026 flagship-grade processor <u>(Dimensity 9500<\/u>), that\u2019s from Qualcomm\u2019s rival, MediaTek.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It\u2019s interesting that the Galaxy S26 Ultra dissipates heat in an unconventional manner. Instead of the back of the phone getting hot, the heat comes from the sides, just above your physical buttons. Performance-wise, the numbers clearly show that it\u2019s a beast that supports the phone\u2019s premium positioning.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"battery-life\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Battery life<\/h2>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Our battery benchmark uses PCMark for Android\u2019s Work 3.0 Battery Life, with results shown in minutes. This controlled benchmark simulates real-world usage, such as web and social media browsing, video and photo editing, parsing data with various file formats, writing, and more. The test starts at 100% and ends with 20% left on the device.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"1309\" height=\"809\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d 1309w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7f1cd9dcd264c9f4b96ba207945f7075f705367eb1ab459f0128a9fca84e3b7d?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6180469715698393;contain-intrinsic-size:1309px 809px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Battery uptime in minutes, Galaxy S26 Ultra at the top.<\/p>\n<p>Image: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is back with a <b>5,000mAh<\/b> battery, and it lasted just over 17 hours. This is over 100 minutes longer-lasting than its predecessor, which is a significant improvement.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">However, the development of silicone-carbon batteries in the <u>Honor Magic8 Pro<\/u> and Xiaomi 17 Ultra are starting to see progress, which explains why the Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s 5,000mAh is falling behind the 6,800~7,100mAh Chinese handsets. That said, having a 36~42% smaller mAh capacity didn\u2019t stop the Galaxy S26 Ultra from getting 17 hours on the same benchmark, so it’s still efficient even if it\u2019s not new.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Perhaps it\u2019s time for Samsung to start exploring silicone-carbon battery technology as well.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The sleeper upgrade, however, is Galaxy S26 Ultra\u2019s wired charging. Samsung has finally given it <b>60W<\/b> <b>charging <\/b>(up from the old 45W). Under the right conditions, such as a low state of charge and a compatible third-party charger, it could draw over 50W and regain as much as 10% charge in as little as 3 minutes. It didn\u2019t take more than 20 minutes to reach the first 50%, and it took a little under one hour to reach full charge. We feel this is Samsung\u2019s fastest-charging Ultra phone to date, and the time saved on waiting is a true perk.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">It would have been a nice touch if the brand had included its own charging adapter (worth S$68) to showcase how quickly the Galaxy S26 Ultra can be refuelled. Fortunately, there\u2019s no shortage of compatible third-party chargers out there.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Additionally, it can now charge wirelessly at a faster rate of up to 25W (up from 15W). This new wireless charging speed implies it supports Qi 2.2, since the older Qi wireless technologies can only pull a little over 15W at their peak. Our gripe is that there\u2019s no charging puck or magnet built into the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which means you’ll need a compatible phone case to use its new wireless charging speeds.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">For users who want that convenience, we\u2019ve also put together <u>a collection of wireless charging accessories here<\/u> for your consideration.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\" class=\"_subHeading1_1k87u_111 _base_1k87u_1\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/1eeb0a7e9eacdb46dd6612a66de0c1d83636882746f7ffbe53c6fe5b89a224af?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Like all technologies and tools that came before it, generative AI\u2019s promises and expectations are still largely shaped by human limitations and greed.<b> It falls upon us to decide whether AI is for milking the last possible ounce of profit, or for improving our quality of life<\/b>. What we didn\u2019t expect was Samsung being the one to show us that the latter is possible, and especially not through its latest premium flagship smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/5f1b3b45edaa3c0e7860080d2884b49cb1e7c79f7b9e68e210224d994774ee3e?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, USB-C port and S Pen holster.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">On the surface, it looks like Samsung played it safe with the Galaxy S26 Ultra by making it difficult to distinguish from its predecessor. Its hardware doesn\u2019t seem that much different. That is, until you actively use the phone and realise you could never go back \u2013 even if its predecessor was the gold standard in premium Android handsets.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/22d3ae7f234816e4a8fb4accce07d582ae2b9f9b3871ecfc98c8d23f3cbbfb34?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, face down.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">As befits a flagship-class phone, it\u2019s a given that performance and battery life should be improved, and this phone achieves that in some ways, even if the gains are incremental. What\u2019s arguably more important is that Samsung chose to make its mark by going beyond the confines of a phone. We note the combined effort of third-party AI collaboration, Galaxy AI, and a selective approach to upgrading tools has worked well, because the current crop of Galaxy AI features is consistent in trying to help free your time up for more important stuff.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">Even its non-AI upgrades (Privacy Display and 60W charging) follow the same train of thought. Why trouble yourself to go hunt down another privacy screen protector when you can just turn the feature on? And why should charging your phone take longer than the time it takes you to have a shower?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/7b0497b597aa0763d5d8bee8930033ba565b1a820f46073fea9a7be42e61c951?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra with S Pen.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">They are not just shortcuts or conveniences for their own sake. Perhaps more importantly, Samsung\u2019s approach is refreshing, especially in light of the current crop of \u201cAI-enabled phones\u201d that often feel incomplete or patronising.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If anything, it\u2019s unfortunate that Samsung marketed this phone as an \u201cAI Phone\u201d, given the mixed opinions about what AI can do and has done to people, and its somewhat negative connotations. In giving us the Galaxy S26 Ultra, its software and hardware teams deserve massive kudos for actually trying to upgrade users\u2019 lives instead of flexing on them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">There\u2019s plenty to pick on if you\u2019re out for Samsung\u2019s blood, too. The Galaxy S26 Ultra starts at <b>S$1,828 <\/b>(256GB), which is really pricey even by premium standards. For that amount of money, you\u2019d think Samsung would at least include a charging adapter, or implement wireless charging without needing a separate phone case. S Pen, an iconic USP of Samsung\u2019s best phone, has had no meaningful updates since losing its Bluetooth or battery capabilities last year. Despite these grievances, the rest of the phone stays and works exceptionally well, and exceeds typical Android phone experiences.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"_figure_wioo3_1\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"_base_12j3k_1\" alt=\"Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"auto\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=500&q=85 500w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=800&q=85 800w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85 1000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=2000&q=85 2000w,https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=3000&q=85 3000w\" src=\"https:\/\/cassette.sphdigital.com.sg\/image\/hardwarezone\/3257a149a020f1918b684cf4423371773fd3d02fcf0a0f31347bcfe2c07e6a64?w=1000&q=85\" style=\"--custom-aspect-ratio:1.6;contain-intrinsic-size:3000px 1875px\"\/><figcaption class=\"_figureCaptions_wioo3_158\">\n<p class=\"_imageCaption_wioo3_165\">Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, rear.<\/p>\n<p>Photo: HWZ<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The age of AI has upended traditional drivers of society, so much so that bigger or newer isn\u2019t necessarily better any more. With AI becoming increasingly inescapable, the way people balance authenticity with outcomes has shifted, creating both uncertainty and renewed expectations.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is probably the first AI-enabled smartphone that didn\u2019t make us roll our eyes, even if its \u201cAI Phone\u201d mantra initially did. The overall upgrades and package offer mileage far beyond what an extra nit of brightness or a drop of milliampere can pull off. That says a lot about the authenticity and quality-of-life improvements it has delivered.<\/p>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\"><b>Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra<\/b>\u00a0is available in Cobalt Violet, Black, Sky Blue, and White, while its online-exclusive colours on Samsung Online Store and Samsung Shop app are Pink Gold and Silver Shadow. Prices are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"_listElement_wioo3_107\">\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 256GB – <b>S$1,828<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">12GB + 512GB – <b>S$2,128<\/b><\/li>\n<li class=\"_listItem_wioo3_112\">16GB + 1TB – <b>S$2,578<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"_base_1s8rd_1 _default_1s8rd_12\">If you\u2019re looking to buy one, click here.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hardwarezone.com.sg\/mobile\/smartphones\/samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra-review-price-specs-battery-life-camera-display\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Read Full Article At Source <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Article Jump List 1. An AI that actually helps you? 2. Samsung\u2019s most advanced Galaxy S display, yet 3. A more useful Galaxy AI 4….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":36993,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[32],"tags":[1672,402,723,28,4755,1585,158,1887],"class_list":["post-36992","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tech-gadgets-reviews","tag-galaxy","tag-life","tag-phone","tag-review","tag-s26","tag-samsung","tag-ultra","tag-upgrade","wpcat-32-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=36992"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36992\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/36993"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=36992"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=36992"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sgbuzz.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=36992"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}