Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak — Radical New Design with S Pen Confirmed

The leaks surrounding Samsung’s 2026 flagship have been in overdrive, but the speculation can finally end. We have exclusive details on the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, and the news is significant.

For fans of the iconic stylus, the most important question has been answered. Furthermore, Samsung is preparing to introduce a major design evolution for its premier smartphone. Let’s dive into the specifics.

The S Pen is Here to Stay

Recent speculation suggested that Samsung might be planning to drop the S Pen from the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This proved to be incorrect. A recent image shared by the renowned leaker Ice Universe (also known as PhoneArt on X/Twitter) clearly displays a prototype of the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a dedicated S Pen slot.

This evidence effectively confirms that Samsung will continue the Galaxy Note’s legacy, solidifying the S Pen as a core feature of the Ultra series in 2026.

A Major Design Change — Embracing Rounded Corners

For the third time in the Galaxy Ultra’s history, Samsung is evolving its design language. Leaked side-by-side comparison images, courtesy of Holly – I like tech, show the Galaxy S26 Ultra next to the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The difference is immediately apparent: the Galaxy S26 Ultra features prominently rounded corners, moving away from the sharp, boxy design that has defined its recent predecessors.

While the box-shaped design has many fans, this change is a strategic move. This new ergonomic approach offers several practical advantages.

Improved Ergonomics and Comfort

Devices with rounded corners are generally more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The smoother edges provide a better grip and reduce pressure points on the user’s palm.

Enhanced Durability

Rounded corners are structurally more resilient. When a device is dropped, the curved surface helps to distribute the force of the impact more evenly, reducing the risk of significant damage. Sharp, angular corners tend to concentrate the entire impact force on a single point, making them more susceptible to cracks and dents.

Superior UI/UX Synergy

The Android operating system, particularly Google’s Pixel line, heavily utilizes rounded corners within its user interface. By aligning the hardware design with the software’s aesthetic, Samsung can create a more cohesive and visually consistent user experience.

Reduced Display Stress Points

On any display, sharp corners can become points of stress concentration. Over time, this can lead to the formation of microcracks. Displays with rounded edges mitigate this risk, offering a subtle but meaningful improvement in long-term durability.

A New Era for the Camera Module

The design evolution extends to the camera system. The Galaxy Ultra’s distinctive five-camera layout appears to be ending with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The new design for the Galaxy S26 Ultra reportedly features a raised camera bump housing three primary lenses in a vertical stack. The other two sensors, along with the dual-tone LED flash, will be positioned in an adjacent column, sitting with the back of the device.

According to Ice Universe, this camera bump is a necessary trade-off for the device’s reduced overall thickness, which is rumored to be just 7.9 mm.

Shooters with Upgrades

The camera hardware itself is receiving a major upgrade. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature an improved 200 MP wide-angle primary sensor with a much wider f/1.4 aperture. This represents a significant leap from the f/1.7 aperture on the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 200 MP sensor, allowing for a 47% increase in light intake. This will translate to dramatically improved low-light photography and overall image quality.

The supporting camera sensors are also impressive, including a 50 MP ultra-wide, a 50 MP periscope, and a 12 MP telephoto shooter.

Same Battery, Smarter Power

Samsung plans to equip the Galaxy S26 Ultra with the same 5,000 mAh battery as its predecessor. The adjustments in the device’s size and the reduction in thickness leave no additional space for a larger battery cell.

However, battery life is not expected to be a concern. Samsung is reportedly developing highly specific optimizations within Android 16 and One UI 8, tailored exclusively for the Galaxy S26 series. This software-first approach aims to maximize efficiency and ensure the device delivers competitive all-day battery performance.

Wrapping Up

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is shaping up to be the definitive fusion of the Galaxy Note and Ultra legacies. With a confirmed S Pen, a more ergonomic and durable design, and a powerful camera upgrade, the device promises to be a future-proof flagship. Stay connected for more updates as they emerge.

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*** This story is developing and will be updated every now and then ***