Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Wishlist: Bold Features We Hope to See in 2026

Every January, Samsung sets the tone for the smartphone world with the launch of its flagship Galaxy S series. At the top of that hierarchy is the Samsung Galaxy S Ultra—a phone known for its sheer power, cutting-edge AI capabilities, and built-in S Pen. But with every new release, expectations rise, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a lot to live up to. While official details are still under wraps, here’s a detailed wishlist of features we’d love to see in Samsung’s next ultra-premium smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Reintroducing Ergonomic Design

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to push design boundaries. Yet, Samsung might need to take a nostalgic detour. While the Galaxy S25 Ultra embraced flat edges reminiscent of Apple’s iPhones, it came at the cost of user comfort. Fans and reviewers alike noted that the flat frame design made the device uncomfortable to hold for extended periods.

Going back to curved edges like those on the Galaxy S23 Ultra could significantly improve ergonomics. Rounded frames feel more natural and distinctive in the hand—making the device not only easier to grip but also helping it stand out from the increasingly similar flat-framed competition. A revival of the ergonomic design would elevate the tactile experience and help re-establish the Ultra line as a unique product within Samsung’s own ecosystem.

Enhanced Camera Personality and Zoom Capabilities

Samsung’s minimalist approach to the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s camera bump left some users craving personality. The previous Contour Cut design on the Galaxy S21 and S22 series added a visual flair and even helped protect the camera lenses. Reintroducing a distinctive design element in the camera layout would give the Galaxy S26 Ultra an identity that reflects its flagship status.

Beyond aesthetics, many fans are hoping for the return of a true 10x optical zoom lens. The S23 Ultra offered it, but the S25 Ultra opted for a higher-resolution 5x sensor, relying heavily on digital cropping. While clever AI algorithms allow zoom from the main 200MP sensor, there’s no substitute for a dedicated 10x optical lens when it comes to preserving detail at long ranges. A hybrid system combining a 3x and 10x optical lens would bring back the camera magic Samsung is known for.

Restoring Full S Pen Functionality

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Ultra series is its built-in S Pen. Unfortunately, Samsung stripped down its functionality on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, removing features like Bluetooth connectivity and Air Actions. As it stands, the S Pen is little more than a glorified stylus—a move that undercuts the Ultra’s appeal to productivity enthusiasts.

To restore the magic, Samsung needs to bring back Bluetooth LE support and re-enable remote camera shutter capabilities and Air Actions. These features set the Ultra apart from cheaper competitors like the Moto G Stylus and cemented its appeal among digital creatives and professionals alike. The S26 Ultra should honor that legacy by giving users the full suite of S Pen tools once again.

Qi2 Wireless Charging and Battery Innovation

Wireless charging is no longer a luxury—it’s expected in any flagship phone. While the Galaxy S25 Ultra was technically Qi2 ready, it lacked the integrated magnets needed for full compatibility. This omission was reportedly to preserve space for the S Pen hardware, but if Samsung doesn’t plan to reinstate S Pen features, that argument becomes weaker.

Adding full Qi2 support with magnetic alignment would modernize the Galaxy S26 Ultra and improve user experience across the board. Meanwhile, it’s also time Samsung reconsidered its long-standing battery and charging limitations. The current 5,000mAh battery and 45W wired charging setup have remained static since the Galaxy S22 Ultra—far behind rivals like OnePlus, which offers 6,000mAh batteries and 80W fast charging.

Keeping the Premium Experience Competitive

The Galaxy S Ultra line is seen as Samsung’s crown jewel. To keep that title, the S26 Ultra must stay ahead of competitors like the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the OnePlus 13, both of which are pushing boundaries in photography, battery life, and design. Offering incremental upgrades won’t cut it anymore. Samsung must go bold—with unique design choices, reinstated features, and better hardware—to stay at the top of the Android world.

As always, the Ultra series’ future will hinge on how well it balances performance, innovation, and usability. Based on the recent release patterns—S25 launched on January 22, 2025, and S24 on January 17, 2024—we can expect the Galaxy S26 Ultra to debut in January 2026.

Should You Wait for the Galaxy S26 Ultra?

If you’re using a recent phone and can wait another six to seven months, it might be worth holding off for the S26 Ultra. If not, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains an excellent option with strong performance and a robust camera setup, albeit with some compromises. Alternatively, you could explore other premium Android flagships, but be aware that they, too, will see successors in early 2026.

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Android smartphones of 2026. With the right mix of innovation and refinement, Samsung could deliver a phone that not only meets expectations but exceeds them.

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FAQs

Will the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra bring back the curved design?

While there’s no confirmation yet, many expect Samsung to return to a curved design due to user feedback about discomfort with flat edges on recent models.

Is the 10x optical zoom returning to the S26 Ultra?

There’s speculation that Samsung could reintroduce the 10x optical zoom lens to improve mid-to-long-range photography, which was downgraded in the S25 Ultra.

Will the S26 Ultra support full Qi2 wireless charging?

Users are hoping for proper Qi2 support, including magnetic alignment, which was missing from the S25 Ultra. This would enhance charging speed and convenience.

Will the S Pen get its features back?

Fans want Samsung to restore Bluetooth functionality and Air Actions, making the S Pen more than just a stylus and reestablishing its productivity appeal.

When is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra likely to launch?

Based on past release patterns, the S26 Ultra is expected to launch in January 2026, following the footsteps of the S25 and S24 Ultra models.