Samsung, it's time to step up your game with the Galaxy S26 Ultra—because if you don't, someone else will. As a seasoned tech reviewer with 14 years under my belt at CNET, I've witnessed Samsung's dominance in the smartphone arena, but let's be real: the competition is fiercer than ever. Brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei are pushing boundaries, and Samsung can't afford to rest on its laurels. With rumors swirling about the imminent release of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, here’s what I’m begging Samsung to include to make it the undisputed king of smartphones.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Samsung has consistently delivered top-tier devices, the Ultra series has started to feel a bit stagnant. The camera, once a game-changer, hasn’t seen a major upgrade in generations. Is Samsung playing it too safe? Let’s dive into what needs to change.
1. Bigger Camera Sensors for Pro-Level Photography
Samsung’s Ultra phones have always been camera powerhouses, but the hardware hasn’t evolved significantly. Enter Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra, which wowed me with its 1-inch image sensor—a game-changer for low-light and dynamic range. If Samsung wants to stay ahead, the S26 Ultra needs a sensor that rivals, or even surpasses, this. Imagine snapping photos that look like they were taken with a mirrorless camera—that’s the bar Samsung should aim for. And this isn’t just about keeping up with Xiaomi; it’s about setting a new standard.
2. Expand Photo Filter Options and Build a Community
Samsung’s filters are solid, but they’re missing a key feature: the ability to share custom presets. Fujifilm’s success with its ‘recipes’ proves that photographers crave this kind of creativity and community. Why hasn’t Samsung capitalized on this? Opening up preset sharing could foster a loyal fanbase of mobile photographers who’d stick with Samsung for life. It’s a no-brainer, yet it’s oddly absent.
3. Offer a Smaller Size Option
The S25 Ultra is a beast, but its 6.9-inch size is a dealbreaker for many—including me. As someone with smaller hands, I’ve always preferred compact phones like the iPhone 17 Pro. Why does Samsung force users to choose between performance and portability? Apple offers its Pro features in a smaller package, and Samsung should follow suit. Heck, I’d even sacrifice the S Pen if it means a more manageable size.
4. Bring Back Bold, Fun Colors
Remember when phones were fun? The Motorola Razr V3 in hot pink? Or the Cosmic orange iPhone 17 Pro? Samsung’s recent color choices have been... underwhelming. The S25 Ultra’s subtle hues are fine, but they’re forgettable. Why not bring back vibrant, personality-packed colors? A metallic pink S26 Ultra would be an instant buy for me—and I’m not alone. Phones are accessories, not just tools, and Samsung should embrace that.
5. Upgrade Battery and Charging Speeds
The S25 Ultra’s 5,000-mAh battery and 45-watt charging are decent, but they’re four years old. Meanwhile, phones like the OnePlus 15 are packing 7,300-mAh batteries and 80-watt charging. Is Samsung falling behind in battery tech? The S26 Ultra needs a significant upgrade here—not just to keep up, but to lead. Faster charging and longer battery life aren’t luxuries; they’re expectations in 2024.
6. Price: The Million-Dollar Question
All these upgrades come at a cost, and I won’t sugarcoat it: the S26 Ultra will likely be pricier. But how much is too much? With economic pressures and component shortages, Samsung risks pricing out everyday consumers. I’m hoping they strike a balance—because if the latest tech is only accessible to the ultra-wealthy, it’s a loss for everyone.
And this is the part most people miss... Samsung has the resources and talent to innovate, but they need to take risks. Bigger sensors, shared presets, smaller sizes, bold colors, and faster charging aren’t just wishlist items—they’re necessities in a crowded market. The S26 Ultra could be revolutionary, but only if Samsung listens.
What do you think? Are these upgrades worth a higher price tag? Should Samsung play it safe or go all-in on innovation? Let me know in the comments—I’m eager to hear your take!
