Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Tiny Display Change, Big Expectations

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra has once again surfaced in the rumor mill, and while the changes might seem minor at first glance, the device is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched smartphones of early 2026. The most recent leak centers around the display size: the Ultra is said to feature a 6.89-inch panel, which will inevitably be marketed as a clean 6.9 inches. That sounds familiar because last year’s Galaxy S25 Ultra was listed at exactly the same rounded number, though its actual measurement was allegedly 6.86 inches.

In practice, the difference is almost imperceptible, but Samsung appears determined to fine-tune rather than revolutionize the display dimensions.

The real intrigue lies not in the size itself but in what Samsung plans to hide within the panel. Well-known leaker Ice Universe has hinted that the new screen will showcase “surprises” tied to Samsung’s proprietary display technologies. Although specifics are still under wraps, expectations point to improvements in brightness, energy efficiency, and possibly adaptive refresh rate tweaks that could set the S26 Ultra apart. For years Samsung has led the OLED game, and this installment might double down on refining contrast, sunlight visibility, and overall longevity of the panel.

Beyond the display, the camera story has stirred controversy. Reports suggest the 5x telephoto sensor will remain unchanged while the 3x telephoto may actually see a downgrade. On the upside, the main camera keeps the same sensor but introduces a wider f/1.4 aperture, allowing nearly 47% more light to hit the sensor. This could translate into significantly improved low-light photography, a domain where Samsung has faced stiff competition from rivals like Apple and Chinese brands including Xiaomi and Vivo. Interestingly, parallel leaks claim that the iQOO 15 will debut with one of Samsung’s best displays, possibly identical to the one fitted in the S26 Ultra. If true, this may reveal what the rumored “surprises” really amount to before Samsung even steps on stage.

Battery life is another area generating debate. Some insiders suggest the S26 Ultra will carry a 4,900 mAh unit – slightly shy of the psychologically appealing 5,000 mAh mark. Combined with rumors of unchanged RAM capacity at 12GB, many long-time Samsung fans feel underwhelmed. The sentiment recalls what happened when the Galaxy A26 series brought a mix of small upgrades and subtle downgrades compared to its predecessor. Enthusiasts fear the S26 line may echo that formula: solid but not truly groundbreaking.

Yet despite skepticism, anticipation remains high. Every Galaxy Ultra inevitably draws attention as a benchmark for Android innovation. Whether Samsung delivers meaningful improvements in screen tech, camera performance, or day-to-day efficiency will determine if the S26 Ultra secures its place as king of the 2026 smartphone cycle – or if it risks being seen as just a polished rerun of the S25 Ultra.