In a bold move to redefine its flagship smartphone design, Samsung is reportedly planning to bring a signature feature from its foldable lineup to the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. According to industry insiders, the tech giant will equip the device with an under-display camera (UDC) system previously reserved for its Galaxy Z Fold series, marking a significant shift in its approach to screen aesthetics and functionality.
The under-display camera, which debuted on the Galaxy Z Fold 3, eliminates the need for notches or punch holes by hiding the front-facing sensor beneath the screen. This technology allows for a truly uninterrupted display, a premium detail that has captivated foldable users. By adopting it for the S26 Ultra, Samsung aims to deliver a sleeker, more immersive viewing experience for its mainstream flagship audience.
As reported by GSM Arena, Samsung has refined the UDC tech to address earlier limitations, such as reduced camera quality and visible pixelation over the hidden lens. “The S26 Ultra’s under-display camera will leverage a new pixel arrangement and advanced algorithms to ensure selfies are as sharp as those from traditional setups,” a source familiar with the project claimed. This upgrade could silence critics who previously called the UDC a trade-off between form and function.
Analysts suggest the move aligns with Samsung’s strategy to blur the lines between its foldable and conventional smartphones. “Bringing foldable-exclusive features to the S Series boosts its appeal without cannibalizing Z Fold sales,” said tech analyst Ji-young Park. “It’s about offering cutting-edge innovation across price tiers.”
Rumors also hint at other cross-pollinated features, such as enhanced multitasking software inspired by the Z Fold’s split-screen capabilities and improved durability with Gorilla Glass Armor. While the S26 Ultra is unlikely to fold, its speculated titanium frame and flatter display edges suggest a design language borrowing heavily from Samsung’s premium foldables.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to debut in February 2026, with leaks pointing to a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, a quad-camera array with a 200MP primary sensor, and a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display. Pricing remains speculative, but the addition of UDC tech could push costs higher than the S25 Ultra’s $1,299 starting point.
As Apple and Google experiment with their own display innovations, Samsung’s decision to democratize foldable-grade features underscores its commitment to maintaining leadership in the Android market. If successful, the S26 Ultra could set a new standard for what a “traditional” flagship smartphone can achieve—no hinges required.
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