Should I wait for S26 Ultra? S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra: Price, Colors, Features Battle!

by Margaret Serenity Updated on 2026-01-29 15:49:32 / Update for Change Location

“Is the S26 Ultra worth buying?”; “Should I wait for the Galaxy S26?”; and similar other questions are being asked by phone enthusiasts all over the internet.

Therefore, in this article, we tell you all you need to know about the Samsung S26 Ultra Release Date, Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Price, and more. Without further ado, let’s get started!

samsung s26 ultra vs s25 ultra

Part 1. Has the Samsung S26 Ultra Been Launched? Release Date and Price

samsung s26 android

As of writing this guide, NO. Samsung has not officially unveiled the S26 lineup yet, but we have strong reports on when it is expected and how much the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Price might be when it finally arrives.

In the following sections, we talk about its potential release date and how much it will cost in the United States.

Samsung S26 Ultra Release Date

Based on recent reliable leaks and reports, the Samsung S26 Ultra Release Date is likely in late February 2026, with sales starting in March.

Announcement

  • Samsung is expected to reveal the Galaxy S26 Ultra at its Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, 2026.
  • Multiple reliable sources, including Technobezz and TomsGuide, have reported this date.

Pre-Order

  • Pre-orders for the Samsung S26 Ultra should start soon after the official announcement.
  • Past Samsung launches started pre-orders mostly on the same day or within a few days of the event, letting customers reserve the phone early with possible bonuses or bundled accessories.

Retail Availability

  • After announcement and pre-orders, the retail availability (when you can buy the Samsung S26 Ultra in stores or online) is expected by early March 2026.
  • Most leaks point to the phone becoming available in stores around March 11 or March 13, 2026 (about two weeks after launch).

How Much is the Samsung S26 Ultra in the US?

Samsung has not confirmed the official cost yet, but most trusted reports suggest the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Price will start at around $1,299 or slightly higher, depending on storage and region.

  • Storage
  • Price range (US)
  • 256 GB
  • $1,299 – $1,399
  • 512 GB
  • $1,419 – $1,549
  • 1 TB
  • $1,569 – $1,749

Part 2. What’s New in the S26 Ultra? 5 Major S26 Ultra Upgrade

If you find yourself asking, “Is the S26 Ultra worth buying?”, then the biggest thing to check is what’s actually new this year.

In this section, we cover the top 5 expected upgrades in simple words, helping you better answer “Which phone is the best to buy in 2026: S25 or S26” as well as “Should I wait for the Galaxy S26 or not”.

1. New S26 Ultra Colors

Leaks suggest Samsung may launch the Ultra in stylish new shades like Black Shadow, White Shadow, Glacial Blue, and a new purple color called Ultraviolet (this might be an exclusive online-only color).

If true, this will make the Samsung S26 Ultra Color options far more modern and eye-catching compared to older models.

2. Privacy Display

One of the most exciting rumors is a built-in Privacy Display, which makes the screen look dark from side angles and thus harder for people next to you to see your screen.

This will protect your chats, banking apps, and private content in public places, without even using a privacy screen protector.

3. 24MP Camera Mode

As part of its new Samsung S26 Ultra features, Samsung may also introduce a 24MP camera mode using pixel-binning technology.

This will give better detail in terms of image sharpness, colors, and improved low-light shots than the more common 12MP shots, all the while keeping file sizes smaller than the full-high 200MP resolution photos.

4. 60W Charging Capabilities

Another major upgrade to Samsung S26 Ultra features could be 60W wired charging, which would be faster than the older 45W system. This will help users charge quickly during busy days or heavy gaming sessions.

5. Next-Gen OLED Display

Leaks also mention a next-gen OLED panel, which is often linked with Samsung’s newer M-series OLED tech. This will render the next-gen OLED display brighter, more power-efficient, and way smoother.

Part 3. Samsung S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra: Should You Upgrade to S26 Ultra?

upgrade samsung s26 ultra

Many people are asking, “Should I wait for the Galaxy S26 or not?” The final answer depends on what you want.

If you need a powerful phone now, the S25 Ultra is already a top flagship. But if you want the newest design, charging upgrades, and better display features, waiting for the S26 Ultra may be smarter.

What Is the Difference Between S26 Ultra and S25 Ultra?

Here’s a clear comparison between the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and the Galaxy S25 Ultra — focusing on the key differences.

  • Feature
  • S25 Ultra
  • S26 Ultra
  • Chipset
  • Snapdragon 8 Elite
  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (or updated variant)
  • Display
  • 6.9″, 120 Hz, ~2600 nits
  • 6.9″, brighter ~3000 nits
  • Main Camera
  • 200 MP (f/1.7)
  • 200 MP (wider aperture)
  • Charging
  • 45W wired
  • 60W wired
  • Design
  • Classic Ultra style
  • Slimmer, new camera island + privacy tech
  • Software
  • Android 15 / One UI 7
  • Android 16 / One UI 8
  • Design and Size : The S26 Ultra is expected to feature slightly slimmer bezels and a lighter aluminum frame. The overall size may stay similar, but the new model should feel more comfortable in the hand thanks to better weight balance and refined edges.
  • Display : S25 Ultra has a 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 120Hz and up to 2600 nits brightness. S26 Ultra is rumored to bring a next-gen OLED display and a Privacy Display feature to reduce side viewing.
  • Chipset & Performance : S26 Ultra will arrive with a newer, faster chipset with better AI processing and improved gaming performance. Early benchmark leaks suggest improved performance compared to previous generations. Everyday tasks should feel smoother when compared to the S25 Ultra after long-term use.
  • Cameras : S25 Ultra already has a strong camera setup, including a 200MP main camera. While the camera hardware may look similar on S26, software changes matter. The S26 Ultra is expected to introduce a 24MP camera mode, offering clearer photos with better colors and low-light results.
  • Charging and Battery Life : S25 Ultra supports 45W charging. S26 Ultra is expected to upgrade to 60W charging, which is a big advantage for busy users.
  • Software & AI Features : Samsung is pushing Galaxy AI strongly, and the S26 Ultra will bring newer AI tools and better on-device privacy features as part of its top Samsung S26 Ultra features. That said, Samsung S25 already boasts a strong suite of AI features and already meets all the AI demands for the majority of users.

Galaxy S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra: Which One Should You Buy?

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I Wait For The Galaxy S26 or not?” and can’t seem to make a decision, don’t worry. When it comes to the ultimate Samsung S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra showdown, it’s easier to see it in this way:

  • If you already own the S25 Ultra or a similar other Android model, upgrading depends on how much you value faster charging, better AI, and camera improvements.
  • For users who are on S21 Ultra or older/weaker Android models, the S26 Ultra makes much more sense.

Bonus Tips: How to Change Camera Mode on Samsung?

how to change camera mode samsung

Before you test new Samsung S26 Ultra features like the rumored 24MP Camera Mode, it is always helpful to know how Samsung’s camera app works.

On most Galaxy phones (including Ultra models), changing modes is quick and simple. It turns out you can switch between Photo, Video, Portrait, and Pro options in just a few taps or swipes.

Here are four easy methods you can use.

Method 1: Swipe Between Modes

  • Open the Camera app.
  • On the bottom bar (where you see Photo, Video, Portrait, etc.), swipe left or right.
  • Stop on the mode you want and start shooting.

Method 2: Tap to Select

  • Open Camera.
  • Look at the mode names near the bottom (like Photo/Video).
  • Tap the mode you want. (This is useful if you don’t like swiping.)

Method 3: Use “More” for Pro & Special Modes

  • Open Camera.
  • Tap More to see extra modes (usually next to the main modes).
  • Choose modes like Pro, Pro Video, Night, Panorama, or other options (the names can differ by model).

Method 4: Customize Your Camera Modes

  • Open Camera → tap More.
  • Tap the Edit option (or a pencil icon, depending on your One UI version).
  • Drag your favorite modes to the main bar so they are easier to access.

FAQs about Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung S26 Ultra Vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Which Is Better?

The S26 Ultra offers more customization, faster charging, and stronger zoom, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max focuses on video and ecosystem stability.

  • Category
  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
  • iPhone 17 Pro Max
  • Which Is Better?
  • Display
  • 6.9″ AMOLED, QHD+, 120Hz, ~3000 nits
  • 6.9″ OLED, 120Hz, ~1600 nits
  • Samsung (brighter, sharper)
  • Performance
  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 / Exynos, up to 16GB RAM
  • Apple A19 Pro, ~12GB RAM
  • iPhone (stronger sustained performance)
  • Cameras (Photo)
  • 200MP main, 5× periscope zoom, better long-range
  • 48MP main, excellent consistency
  • Samsung (zoom & detail)
  • Cameras (Video)
  • 8K, HDR10+
  • 4K@120fps, Dolby Vision, ProRes
  • iPhone (video king)
  • Battery Life
  • ~5200 mAh, very good
  • ~5000 mAh, excellent real-world optimization
  • iPhone
  • Charging
  • ~60W wired, faster, reverse wireless
  • ~29W wired, MagSafe
  • Samsung
  • Software
  • Android 16 / One UI (customizable, S Pen)
  • iOS 26 (smooth, simple)
  • Tie (preference)
  • Ecosystem
  • Android + Windows + Google
  • Apple (Mac, iPad, Watch, AirPods)
  • iPhone
  • Extras
  • S Pen, multitasking, customization
  • Face ID, ecosystem polish
  • Depends
  • Overall Strength
  • Hardware power & flexibility
  • Performance, video & ecosystem
  • Depends on user

How Much Is the Samsung S26 Ultra in Dubai?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra price in Dubai is expected to start around AED 5,200, depending on storage and local taxes.

How Big Is the Samsung Galaxy S26?

The standard S26 features a compact 6.2-inch display, while the Ultra model boasts a massive 6.8-inch screen. This variety ensures users can choose between effortless one-handed portability and an immersive, large-scale viewing experience for media or productivity.

Will The S26 Ultra Have Sharp Edges?

No, latest leaks suggest the S26 Ultra will adopt softer, slightly curved edges to replace the sharp corners of previous models. This ergonomic shift significantly improves handheld comfort, making the large flagship much easier to grip during extended daily use.

Which Samsung Phones Will Stop Working In 2025?

Phones won’t “stop working,” but some older models will lose updates in 2026, such as the Samsung S20. However, they will still work for basic use.

Final Thoughts

Is the S26 Ultra worth buying? Only if you want Samsung’s latest upgrades like improved display tech, faster charging, and smarter camera features. If not, then the S25 Ultra is still a powerful option.

Either way, Pokémon Go and Monster Hunter Now will work equally well on both devices. You can use the PoGoskill Location Changer to play these AR games from home on your S25 Ultra or even S26 Ultra.

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Margaret Serenity

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With a decade of software industry experience, Margaret Serenity is PoGoskill's leading editor for resolving iPhone and Android issues. Her online guides have assisted millions of users globally.