Under the hood, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The latter has been designed specifically to improve artificial intelligence performance. The 5,000 mA·h battery promises up to 31 hours of video playback according to the manufacturer. A fast charging system recovers 75% energy in just 30 minutes with a 60W adapter.
An innovative screen for increased confidentiality
The “Privacy Display” function constitutes the main innovation of this model. It allows you to control the diffusion of light at the pixel level to limit the visibility of the screen from lateral angles. The aim is to protect sensitive information from prying eyes in public places, such as public transport.
Unlike traditional protective films applied to the screen, this integrated feature preserves visual quality for the user facing the phone. Confidentiality is adjustable: it can be activated automatically when entering a password or for certain applications selected by the user, or it can be constant. Two levels of protection are offered, the maximum mode fades the colors.
Artificial intelligence occupies a central place in this new generation. The “Now Nudge” feature analyzes context to suggest relevant actions, such as sharing recent photos or checking a calendar when receiving an invitation message. These tools aim to reduce the number of steps needed to accomplish common digital tasks.
Computer-assisted photography
The photographic system is based on four sensors, including a main one of 200 megapixels, an ultra wide-angle of 50 megapixels and two telephoto lenses (50 MP and 10 MP) offering optical zooms of 3x and 5x. These hardware improvements are accompanied by optimal image processing for low-light environments.
Editing images has become easier thanks to the “Photo Assist” tool, which allows you to modify an image by controlling it by speaking or writing. You can therefore ask to transform a daytime scene into a nighttime one, or to remove an annoying element from a photo. In addition, the “Creative Studio” allows you to design custom visuals, such as wallpapers, from simple sketches or texts.
Samsung remains one of the few manufacturers to integrate a stylus, the S Pen, housed directly in the chassis of the device. This accessory makes it easy to take handwritten notes and draw, while also serving as a mouse for precise navigation.
Samsung DeX mode allows you to transform the smartphone into a real computer by connecting it to an external screen.
In terms of connectivity, the device manages two physical SIM cards or two virtual SIM cards (eSIM), offering great flexibility for travelers. Running Android 16, the S26 Ultra will benefit from seven years of security and system updates. Its price is 1,449 euros.
