PhoneArena predicts that Samsung will likely maintain the pricing structure of the previous generation: starting around $1,299.99 for the 256GB version, $1,419.99 for 512GB, and up to $1,659.99 for the 1TB model.

Analysts believe Samsung may resist price hikes, as no significant increase in component costs has been detected.

Customers can also expect trade-in offers and possible free storage upgrades at launch, as seen in past campaigns.

Camera: Meaningful upgrades beyond specs

The rear camera system is one of the most anticipated features.

While the main sensor is expected to remain at 200MP, it may come with a wider aperture (rumored to be F/1.4), improving low-light photography.

Ice Universe and other reliable sources report a camera setup that includes a 50MP ultra-wide lens, a 50MP telephoto with 5x zoom, and a 10MP telephoto with 3x zoom.

There are also rumors that Samsung might reintroduce variable aperture technology, allowing the camera to switch between settings like F1.4 and F4.0 depending on lighting and scene - a feature once seen in older Galaxy models.

Selfie camera: Wider view, minor trade-off

The front camera will reportedly retain its 12MP resolution but expand its field of view to 85°, up from 80° - making group selfies easier.

However, this wider angle may come at the cost of a slightly larger punch-hole, a trade-off users may need to consider.

Design: A refreshed look with familiar DNA

Design leaks suggest a return to the “camera island” aesthetic on the rear, reminiscent of the earlier Galaxy Edge series, with raised camera modules.

The phone’s body will reportedly be slimmer by about 0.4mm than the S25 Ultra, with softer, more ergonomic curves.

A new orange color option could also make its debut, based on leaked prototypes.

Though thinner, the raised camera bump could add some visual bulk.

Despite these changes, the S Pen is expected to remain built-in, and support for Qi2 magnetic wireless charging will be added - marking a significant upgrade.

Display: AI-enhanced and privacy-focused

The S26 Ultra may feature a 6.9-inch OLED panel with new M14 technology, which is thinner, more energy-efficient, yet still bright.

One standout rumor is the introduction of Flex Magic Pixel OLED - an AI-driven display that adjusts each pixel's viewing angle to reduce screen snooping while maintaining brightness for the main user.

Performance and battery: Powerful but still debated

The phone is expected to be powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (in select markets) or Samsung’s own Exynos 2600 (in others) - a shift from recent Ultra models that used only Snapdragon chips.

This reintroduction of Exynos into the Ultra line is seen as a pivotal move for Samsung.

Battery capacity and charging are also hot topics. Rumors suggest the S26 Ultra might adopt a silicon-carbon (Si-C) battery, offering higher energy density, better longevity, and faster charging compared to standard lithium batteries.

Wired charging could be upgraded to 60W, with wireless charging reaching up to 25W. Qi2 support with magnetic alignment, akin to Apple’s MagSafe, is also expected.

To wait or not to wait?

Whether to wait for the Galaxy S26 Ultra depends on your needs.

If you're looking for a flagship with genuine camera upgrades, top-tier performance, and cutting-edge display tech, it could be worth the wait.

However, if you need a phone now - especially with expected price drops for the S25 Ultra - the current model remains a solid choice.

As always, these details are based on leaks and unconfirmed information. Consumers are advised to follow developments closely and await official announcements before making a decision.

Hai Phong