Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaks Spark Debate: Is Samsung Losing Its Iconic Design?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is already one of the most searched smartphones online—and it hasn’t even been announced yet.

The reason? Recently leaked dummy units, shared by well-known leaker @OnLeaks, suggest Samsung may be preparing one of the most noticeable Ultra redesigns in years. And as expected, fans are divided.

For several generations, Samsung’s Ultra lineup has been defined by sharp corners, a boxy “Note-style” shape, and floating camera lenses. But if these leaks are accurate, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could mark a shift toward a softer, more refined look—raising a big question:

Is Samsung improving comfort… or abandoning its identity?

A Major Design Shift: Rounded Corners and a Camera Island

The most controversial change is immediately visible on the back.

The Return of the Camera Island

Since the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Samsung has used a clean “floating lens” design, where each camera protrudes individually from the rear glass. According to the leaked dummy units:

• The Galaxy S26 Ultra may feature a single unified camera island
• All lenses sit inside one raised module, similar to recent Galaxy Z Fold devices
• The island could reduce dust buildup and minimize wobble on flat surfaces

While some users welcome the practicality, others feel this move makes the phone look less premium and less distinctive.

Rounded Corners: Comfort Over Character?

Another noticeable change is the frame itself.

• The sharp, squared-off corners appear to be gone
• The new design looks more rounded and ergonomic
• This could make the large ~6.9-inch device easier to hold during long use

However, longtime Ultra fans argue that those sharp edges were part of what made the phone feel unique—a true successor to the Galaxy Note.

Expected Specs: Power, but With Familiar Choices

While Samsung hasn’t confirmed anything yet, leaks and industry reports suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra will focus on refinement rather than radical upgrades.

Performance

• Expected to launch with Qualcomm’s next flagship chipset (currently rumored as Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, naming not finalized)
• Some regions may still receive an Exynos variant, though Ultra models typically favor Qualcomm
• Focus is expected to be on better efficiency and thermal control, not just raw speed

Display

• Large Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, around 6.9 inches
• Rumored brightness exceeding 3,000 nits, improving outdoor visibility
• Likely to retain Samsung’s top-tier refresh rate and HDR support

Charging

• Samsung may finally move past 45W wired charging
• Early leaks suggest 60W wired charging support
• Possible compatibility with Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, though this remains unconfirmed

Camera: Refinement Instead of Reinvention

Samsung doesn’t appear to be chasing higher megapixel numbers this time.

• 200MP main camera is expected to remain
• Improved lens coatings may reduce night-time lens flare
• Telephoto cameras (3x and 5x) are rumored to receive larger sensors, improving low-light zoom performance

If true, this approach mirrors Samsung’s recent strategy: fewer headline features, more consistent real-world improvements.

Possible Release Date and Price

Samsung typically unveils Galaxy S devices in January, but current rumors suggest a slight shift.

• Expected announcement: February 2026
• Expected release: Early March 2026
• Estimated starting price: Around $1,399, depending on region and storage

Rising component costs and new chip technologies could push prices higher, though Samsung has not confirmed any figures.

Is This the Right Direction for the Ultra Series?

The Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be shaping up as a “refinement year”:

• More comfortable to hold
• Slightly cleaner and more practical design
• Incremental improvements instead of dramatic changes

But for fans who loved the Ultra’s sharp, boxy identity, this redesign could feel like a step away from what made the phone special in the first place.

Samsung has reversed design decisions before—so public reaction may still influence the final product.

Important Note

All specifications, dates, and design details mentioned above are based on leaks and industry rumors. Samsung has not officially confirmed any information regarding the Galaxy S26 Ultra.