The rumor mill surrounding the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is already buzzing, although the smartphone is not expected to be unveiled until January 2026. The focus is particularly on possible improvements to the camera, the integration of the Qi2 standard and the future of the S Pen.
Possible new features of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
- Camera: Possible optimization of the 200-megapixel sensor with improved optics and variable aperture.
- Qi2 standard: Lack of magnets could still require the use of protective cases with integrated magnets.
- S-Pen: Retention of the S-Pen in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, despite long-term considerations to remove it.
Optimized 200 megapixel camera
The latest Samsung Galaxy S25 series only celebrated its market launch at the beginning of the year. An Ultra model was also included this year (€ 1,529.00 *). Now the rumor mill is already churning over the successor. Industry insider PandaFlashPro on X is one of the sources behind this. The first tangible indications of the camera technology are already available, as a video from TT Technology underlines.
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Samsung has been using the 200-megapixel ISOCELL HP2 sensor since the Galaxy S23 Ultra. According to rumors, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could receive an optimized version of this sensor, supplemented by improved pixel structures and new optics, possibly with a variable aperture. These adjustments could further increase the image quality and flexibility of the camera.
Qi2 standard and magnetic integration
The Qi2 standard enables magnetic wireless charging, similar to Apple’s MagSafe. However, current information suggests that Samsung is still not planning to integrate magnets into the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This would mean that users would have to rely on protective cases with built-in magnets in order to make optimum use of Qi2 accessories. It remains to be seen whether Samsung will reconsider this decision before the final design of the device.
Future of the Samsung S-Pen
There are indications that Samsung is planning to remove the S Pen from the Galaxy S Ultra series in the long term to make room for other components. For the Galaxy S26 Ultra, however, it is expected that the S Pen will remain integrated. This could be related to the lack of magnetic integration, as the space in the housing has to be distributed accordingly.
Conclusion
The current rumors about the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra point to moderate but targeted improvements, especially in the camera area. However, the decision not to integrate magnets for the Qi2 standard could make the use of corresponding accessories more difficult. The retention of the S-Pen should please many users, even if changes in this area seem possible in the long term.
