As the Samsung Galaxy S26 series approaches its likely late February launch, a flurry of rumors suggests significant upgrades and potential changes. From innovative display technology to enhanced performance and charging capabilities, the next generation of Samsung's flagship phones is shaping up to be a compelling release. However, some of these rumored features are more plausible than others.
Key Takeaways
- A 'Privacy Display' feature is highly anticipated, leveraging Samsung's existing technology.
- Expect a potential price increase, though likely not substantial.
- The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset is expected for most models, with some regional Exynos variants.
- Magnetic wireless charging is a strong possibility, though its implementation remains slightly unclear.
- A variable camera aperture is considered unlikely, despite past experimentation.
- Battery capacities may see an increase, particularly for the base and Ultra models.
- Faster 60W charging for the S26 Ultra is a strong contender.
A Privacy Display
One of the most intriguing rumored features for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is a 'Privacy Display.' This technology would function similarly to a privacy screen protector, limiting the viewing angle to prevent onlookers from seeing the screen content. Samsung has previously showcased technology capable of this, and a leaked screenshot showing a 'Privacy Display' toggle further bolsters the likelihood of this feature appearing on at least some S26 models, most probably the Ultra variant. The likelihood of this feature is rated at 9/10.
A Higher Price
Reports regarding a price increase for the Samsung Galaxy S26 series have been conflicting. However, with soaring memory prices, a price hike seems probable. Most leaks suggest that any increase will be modest, meaning users might have to pay slightly more, but hopefully not significantly. The likelihood of a price increase is rated at 7/10.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Chipset For Every Model
There are mixed signals about the chipset powering the Galaxy S26 series. While the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is expected for the S26 Ultra, the inclusion of Exynos 2600 units for other models is debated. Recent leaks suggest that only South Korean models might receive Exynos, with Snapdragon used globally for all S26 variants. Given this is a more recent claim and aligns with Samsung's strategy for the S25, this scenario appears plausible. Regardless, both chipsets promise top-tier performance. The likelihood is rated at 6/10.
Magnetic Wireless Charging
Signs point towards the Samsung Galaxy S26 series supporting magnetic wireless charging, akin to Apple's MagSafe. Leaks of magnetic accessories and diagrams showing a magnetic ring on the back of the S26 support this. While magnetic accessories are likely, it's uncertain if the phones themselves will integrate magnets or rely on cases. However, multiple sources suggest the phones will have magnets, making this a cautiously optimistic prediction. The likelihood is rated at 7/10.
A Variable Camera Aperture
A claim suggesting a variable aperture for the main camera on the Galaxy S26 Ultra is considered among the less likely rumors. This feature would allow for adjustable aperture sizes, beneficial in various lighting conditions. While Samsung experimented with this on the Galaxy S9, the lack of recent corroboration from a single tipster makes this feature improbable. The likelihood is rated at 3/10.
Bigger Batteries
While the Galaxy S26 Plus might retain its predecessor's battery capacity, the base Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra could see battery boosts. Leaks indicate the S26 might get a 4,300mAh battery (up from 4,000mAh), and the S26 Ultra could receive a 5,200mAh or 5,400mAh battery (up from 5,000mAh). Some sources dispute the Ultra's battery upgrade, but a boost for at least one model, likely the base variant, seems probable. The likelihood of one model having a bigger battery is 8/10, and 5/10 for two models.
60W Charging For The Ultra
Several sources, including reputable leaker @UniverseIce, suggest the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature faster charging than its 45W predecessor, potentially reaching 60W. While not as fast as some competitors, this upgrade would offer a noticeable improvement in charging speeds. With multiple sources reiterating this claim, 60W charging appears to be a very likely inclusion. The likelihood is rated at 8/10.