Samsung Galaxy Galaxy S26 Ultra Review Begins: Slimmer Design and Camera Tweaks in Focus

The samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra has officially arrived at the GSMArena headquarters and is already in for review. Thanks to modern air travel — and a bit of sleep along the way — the device wasted no time heading straight to the review desk.

The unit on hand is the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant in Cobat Violet. As expected, the retail package is minimal, including only a USB-C cable and the phone itself.

Design and Build

At first glance, the samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra looks very similar to its predecessor. However, subtle refinements set it apart. The phone is slightly taller and wider, yet thinner and marginally lighter.

The design also introduces a subtle camera island, giving the rear a refreshed look. Whether users prefer the old or new styling may come down to personal taste, but the updated design leaves a positive first impression.

Privacy Display Technology

The standout feature of the samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra is its new Privacy Display. This feature uses pixel-level light control to reduce screen visibility from side angles. Samsung calls the underlying system Flex Magic Pixel technology, which directs light per pixel to limit off-angle viewing.

The effect is impressive and unlike anything previously seen at the office. However, enabling the feature slightly dims the display, which could affect overall usability depending on user preference.

Display Quality

Beyond privacy features, the display itself remains a highlight. The panel is less reflective than typical OLED screens — a trait often associated with Samsung’s Ultra lineup.

The screen is also flat, offering a comfortable and premium feel during use.

Camera Updates

On the back, the camera system of the samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra remains largely unchanged in terms of hardware size. There are no larger sensors, but there are adjustments to lens apertures.

The main camera now features an f/1.4 aperture, compared to the previous f/1.7. Meanwhile, the 111mm zoom camera moves to an f/2.9 lens from f/3.4. These changes are incremental rather than dramatic.

Comprehensive camera testing will follow as part of the full review process.

Pricing

The 256GB 12GB RAM version of the samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra is listed at $1,299.99. The 512GB 12GB RAM option is available at $1,499.99, with some listings also showing promotional deals.

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The samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra arrives with subtle design refinements, a new Privacy Display powered by Flex Magic Pixel technology, and minor camera aperture upgrades. While the overall formula remains familiar, the samsung galaxy galaxy s26 ultra introduces meaningful tweaks that will be evaluated further in the full review.