Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks reveal a late-February launch, built-in privacy display, new colours, faster performance, and Qi2 charging. Here’s what to expect in 2026.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leaks reveal a late-February launch [Photo: X]
Samsung’s next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched smartphone launches of 2026. Fresh leaks suggest a late-February debut, major display upgrades, improved performance, and a wider choice of colours. More importantly, the device may introduce a built-in Privacy Display — a feature that could redefine what users expect from a premium smartphone.
While Samsung has not officially confirmed details, multiple reports now paint a clearer picture of what the Galaxy S26 Ultra may bring when it launches.
Leaks indicate that Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 Ultra at its Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, 2026. If the timeline holds, pre-orders are expected to begin on February 26, with retail availability starting in early to mid-March 2026.
This follows Samsung’s usual launch pattern and gives buyers time to plan upgrades and pre-book devices once official announcements go live. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+.
One of the most significant leaks around the Galaxy S26 Ultra is its built-in Privacy Display. Instead of relying on external screen protectors, this technology limits viewing angles so that only the person directly facing the phone can see the content clearly.
The feature is expected to be integrated into One UI 8.5, possibly as a quick-settings toggle. Reports suggest it could activate automatically when users open sensitive apps such as banking, payments, or digital wallets.
Samsung may pair this with advanced OLED tech, anti-reflective coating, and next-generation Gorilla Glass. Together, these upgrades could reduce glare, boost brightness, and improve durability — potentially eliminating the need for separate screen protectors.
The biggest upgrade on the Galaxy S26 Ultra could be the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, expected to power the device in most global markets.
This next-generation processor is tipped to deliver:
For Samsung, this chip could help close performance gaps with rivals and strengthen its position in AI-powered smartphones. The focus appears to be on making the Galaxy S26 Ultra not just faster, but smarter.
Industry chatter also suggests the new chipset will play a bigger role in real-time image processing, voice recognition, and AI-powered features built directly into One UI.
A Privacy Display restricts side-angle visibility. People nearby see a blurred or darkened screen, while the main user sees normal colours and brightness.
Unlike traditional privacy screen guards, Samsung’s solution appears to combine hardware and software, preserving colour accuracy, touch response, and display quality. It offers privacy without compromising the viewing experience.
Smartphone upgrades often focus on faster chips or higher refresh rates. Those gains are incremental. Privacy, however, has become essential.
Phones now store banking data, work emails, and personal conversations. In public places, screen peeking is a real risk. Built-in privacy protection solves a daily problem without accessories or compromises.
If Samsung delivers this feature as leaked, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could shift the idea of “premium” from raw power to personal security and trust.
Leaks suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra will arrive in six colours: Black, White, Silver Shadow, Sky Blue, Cobalt Violet, and Pink Gold.
This broader palette gives users more personal choice. Design changes are expected to be subtle, with slim bezels and a refined camera layout continuing Samsung’s recent design language.
Leaks also suggest Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, which enables Samsung-made magnetic accessories. This could place Samsung closer to Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem and open the door to new add-ons designed specifically for the S26 Ultra.
While features like Privacy Display add value, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 may define how the Galaxy S26 Ultra is perceived in 2026.
With rivals focusing on AI and performance, Samsung appears to be betting that a powerful new chipset — paired with smarter software — will be the real reason users upgrade.
If the leaks are accurate, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could mark a shift from incremental updates to a more meaningful performance-focused refresh.
