Samsung, it's time to step up your game. The Galaxy S26 Ultra could be a game-changer, but only if you listen to what users really want. With rumors swirling about its imminent release, I’m here to share insights from my 14 years as a CNET reviewer—and trust me, I’ve seen it all. From testing every generation of the Ultra series to snapping thousands of photos and gaming for hours, I know what makes Samsung stand out. But I also know where it falls short. Here’s what the Galaxy S26 Ultra needs to become the ultimate smartphone.
But here’s where it gets controversial... While Samsung has dominated the market, competitors like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei are pushing boundaries with innovations that Samsung seems to be missing. It’s time for Samsung to prove it’s still the king of the hill.
1. Bigger Camera Sensors for Pro-Level Photography
Samsung’s cameras have always been top-tier, especially for low-light shots and telephoto zooms. But the hardware hasn’t evolved much lately. And this is the part most people miss: Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra stole the show with its 1-inch image sensor, delivering photos that rival mirrorless cameras. If Samsung wants to stay ahead, the S26 Ultra needs a larger sensor to capture more light, improve dynamic range, and reduce reliance on software processing. Imagine snapping images that look like they were taken with a professional camera—that’s the future Samsung should aim for.
2. Expand Photo Filter Options and Build a Community
Samsung’s filters are great, but they’re missing a key feature: the ability to share custom presets. Fujifilm’s success with its ‘recipes’ proves that photographers crave this kind of creativity. If Samsung allowed users to share their presets, it could foster a passionate community of mobile photographers. Why not take a page from Fujifilm’s book and make the S26 Ultra the go-to phone for photography enthusiasts?
3. Offer a Smaller Size Option
The S25 Ultra is a beast, but its 6.9-inch screen isn’t for everyone. As someone with smaller hands, I’d love to see Samsung follow Apple’s lead and offer a compact version without compromising on performance. Here’s a bold suggestion: ditch the S Pen if it means creating a more pocket-friendly device. After all, not everyone uses it.
4. Bring Back Bold, Fun Colors
Remember the Motorola Razr V3 in hot pink? That’s the kind of excitement Samsung needs to bring back. The S25 Ultra’s muted colors are classy, but they’re also forgettable. A vibrant metallic pink or cosmic orange (like the iPhone 17 Pro) would make the S26 Ultra stand out. Phones should be fun, not just functional—let’s embrace that.
5. Upgrade Battery and Charging Speeds
The S25 Ultra’s 5,000-mAh battery and 45-watt charging are solid, but they’re four years old. Competitors like the OnePlus 15 are already using silicon-carbon technology for faster charging and larger batteries. Samsung, it’s time to catch up. A 100-watt charging speed and a bigger battery would make the S26 Ultra a true powerhouse.
6. Keep the Price in Check
With all these upgrades, the S26 Ultra’s price could skyrocket. Economic fluctuations and component shortages aren’t helping. But Samsung, please don’t price out everyday users. Innovation should be accessible, not just for the elite.
Now, I want to hear from you: Which of these features would you prioritize? Do you think Samsung can pull off all of this without breaking the bank? Let’s debate in the comments—I’m all ears!
