Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Impresses Despite Initial Criticism

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – The launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra was widely anticipated as one of the biggest technology events of the year. While early reactions focused on criticism over design tweaks and feature changes, extended use suggests that many concerns may have been overstated, with the device remaining one of the most powerful flagship smartphones available.

The S26 Ultra is now available globally through Samsung’s online store and major carriers. Prices start at $1,300 for the 256GB model, $1,500 for 512GB, and $1,800 for the 1TB variant. While the base model retains the previous generation’s pricing, higher storage options are slightly more expensive.

Samsung has released the phone in six standard colours — Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, White, and Black — while two exclusive shades, Silver Shadow and Pink Gold, are available only through the Samsung store.

Competition is strong, with rivals including the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and Android alternatives such as the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, OnePlus 15, Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and Honor Magic8 Pro.

One noticeable improvement over the S25 Ultra is ergonomics. The previous model faced criticism for its sharp, angular design. Samsung addressed this with a thinner, lighter, and slightly curved body in the S26 Ultra, offering a more comfortable grip for prolonged use. However, the overall design represents a subtle evolution rather than a dramatic overhaul.

Samsung has returned to an aluminium chassis, moving away from the titanium frames used in the S24 and S25 Ultra. The aluminium body remains durable and comfortable, though some may see it as a step down. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Armor 2, with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the rear, and the device carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. While solid, some competitors now offer higher IP69 ratings.

A standout feature is the Privacy Display, which prevents onlookers from seeing on-screen content unless viewed directly from the front. This hardware-software combination is exclusive to the Ultra model and can be customised to work only in selected apps or notifications, remaining largely unobtrusive.

Camera upgrades are modest. The 200-megapixel main sensor features a wider f/1.4 aperture, while the 50-megapixel telephoto lens has an f/2.9 aperture for improved low-light performance. Optical zoom options — 3x, 5x, and 10x — remain unchanged.

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In real-world use, the camera delivers consistent image quality, particularly in low-light and night photography, producing deep black skies while retaining details in illuminated areas. Photo Assist and AI-powered editing tools enhance the photography experience, although software processing sometimes results in smoothing or edge enhancement. The telephoto lens occasionally switches unexpectedly to macro mode, affecting focus.

Despite these minor issues, the S26 Ultra produces vibrant colours and strong contrast, ideal for social media and everyday photography. While not a revolutionary upgrade, the Galaxy S26 Ultra remains a formidable flagship, reinforcing Samsung’s leadership in the premium Android segment.