Samsung, a leader in display technology, supplies panels for nearly every high-end smartphone. However, it has reserved a key innovation, the premium anti-reflective coating, exclusively for its Ultra models, first seen on the S24 Ultra. In an era where smartphone brightness isn’t the main concern, outdoor visibility, heavily influenced by surface reflectivity, takes precedence. Despite this, Samsung has not extended this feature to the S26 Plus, possibly to steer consumers towards the pricier Ultra, even though the S26 Plus itself is a $1,000 flagship. This single upgrade could entice iPhone or Pixel users to switch to Galaxy.
The Ultra’s dual zoom system, while impressive, often feels excessive. Most users would prefer a single telephoto camera with smart sensor cropping. Many Chinese flagships now use a 3X or 4X zoom lens with a large sensor, matching dual zoom systems in quality. The S26 Plus’s 3X lens is outdated, affecting low-light performance. It doesn’t need to abandon the 3X zoom but requires a larger sensor, better aperture, and ideally, macro telephoto capabilities. These changes could significantly enhance the S26 Plus, making a good telephoto camera more practical than the Ultra’s dual-zoom setup.
Battery size is another concern. The S26 Ultra sacrifices battery space for the S Pen. If Samsung continues this trend, the S26 Plus should prioritize battery capacity. Users need a physically larger, high-density battery that lasts longer regardless of usage. Embracing silicon-carbon battery technology could be the solution.
Samsung’s delay in adopting Qi2 wireless charging is frustrating. With the Pixel 10 supporting it, Samsung should integrate Qi2 into the Galaxy S26 series. The magnetic auto-alignment offers real convenience, ensuring perfect alignment for instant charging. It also stabilizes and secures higher wireless charging speeds, which Samsung currently lags behind with only 10–15W compared to competitors’ 25W.
The front camera also needs attention. Selfies are no longer just for social media but are essential for video calls, meetings, and quick snaps. Samsung’s front camera has a narrow field of view, making group selfies challenging. Innovations like the iPhone 17’s square sensor, allowing photo rotation without rotating the phone, show there’s room for improvement.
A dedicated shutter button could enhance the photography experience. Despite the Ultra accommodating an S Pen, a physical shutter button is absent. Many iPhone users have developed a reflex to press a button for quick shots. Samsung could offer a programmable physical button, providing a faster, more intentional shooting experience than screen taps.
For the Galaxy S26 Plus to truly be a flagship worth buying, Samsung needs to make significant investments. Users have waited long enough for a Plus version that lives up to its name.
