Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra is poised to bring back a fan-favorite feature—S Pen support—but will reportedly sidestep the highly anticipated under-display camera (UDC) technology, according to leaks from trusted industry sources. The move signals a strategic blend of legacy innovation and cautious hardware evolution for the tech giant’s next flagship.
S Pen Support: A Nod to Note Loyalists
The Galaxy S26 Ultra will reportedly inherit the S Pen functionality previously reserved for Samsung’s now-retired Note series, as exclusive tipster insights suggest. This decision aligns with Samsung’s recent trend of merging its premium smartphone lines, offering Ultra-model users a stylus-driven experience tailored for productivity and creativity.
Insiders note that the S26 Ultra’s S Pen will feature reduced latency and enhanced pressure sensitivity, building on improvements seen in recent Galaxy Tab releases. The phone is also rumored to include a redesigned storage slot for the stylus, addressing long-standing complaints about the S23 Ultra’s bulky casing.
UDC Technology Delayed Again
While competitors like Xiaomi and ZTE have rolled out under-display cameras in their flagships, Samsung appears to be hitting pause on UDC for the S26 series. Sources close to Notebookcheck reveal that the company has prioritized refining existing display quality over rushing UDC adoption. This means the S26 Ultra will retain a traditional punch-hole front camera, albeit with a smaller cutout than its predecessor.
The decision likely stems from unresolved challenges with UDC image quality under low-light conditions. “Samsung doesn’t want to compromise on selfie performance,” an analyst noted, pointing to the brand’s emphasis on camera excellence in marketing campaigns.
What Else to Expect from the S26 Series
Alongside the Ultra model, the standard Galaxy S26 and S26+ are rumored to feature significant camera upgrades, including a 200MP primary sensor and AI-powered night mode enhancements. All models are expected to debut with Samsung’s next-gen Exynos 2500 chipset (or Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 in select markets), promising notable gains in energy efficiency and gaming performance.
Battery life is another focal point, with whispers of a 5,500mAh cell for the Ultra variant supporting 65W wired charging—a first for Samsung’s S-series.
Market Reactions and Competitor Pressure
The absence of UDC may disappoint enthusiasts hoping for a truly bezel-less display, especially as Apple explores similar tech for its 2025 iPhone lineup. However, the inclusion of the S Pen could strengthen the S26 Ultra’s appeal among professionals and artists, a demographic Samsung has courted aggressively since retiring the Note series.
For those eager to upgrade sooner, current models like the Galaxy S23 Ultra remain available with robust specs and discounted pricing.
The Road Ahead
Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy S26 series in February 2026, following its usual launch cycle. While UDC tech remains on the horizon, the company’s measured approach underscores its balancing act between innovation and reliability. As one leaker quipped, “Sometimes, the best feature is the one that works flawlessly—not just first.”
Stay tuned for further updates as Samsung’s plans solidify in the coming months.
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