Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Design Leaks: How It Compares to the S25 Ultra
Samsung is maintaining its current trajectory for flagship aesthetics, yet the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to distinguish itself from its predecessor with several key refinements. Far from being a mere carbon copy, the 2026 model is expected to carve out its own unique identity through a series of intentional hardware adjustments. While the core DNA remains recognizable, the subtle shifts in form and function suggest a more polished user experience for Samsung flagship enthusiasts.
- ✨ Thinner and more ergonomic profile, rumored at just 7.9mm thickness.
- ✨ Transition to rounder corners for a traditional Galaxy S series feel.
- ✨ Innovative S Pen clicker redesign that follows the phone's frame contour.
- ✨ Return of the dedicated camera housing for a more cohesive rear design.
- ✨ Expanded color palette including Cobalt Violet and Silver Shadow.
Recent leaks indicate that the design formula, though familiar, introduces several cues that fans will likely appreciate. If you are curious about the specific physical changes coming to the next generation, here is the complete breakdown based on the latest industry reports.
Galaxy S26 Ultra Dimensions: Taller, Wider, and Thinner
According to the latest data, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will measure approximately 163.6 x 78.1 mm. This adjustment makes the device slightly taller and wider than the Galaxy S25 Ultra. While these changes in height and width are marginal, they indicate a slight shift in the device's footprint.
The most significant change, however, lies in its thickness. Samsung is aggressively pursuing a slimmer profile for its premium line. The S26 Ultra is rumored to be only 7.9mm thick, a noticeable reduction from the 8.2mm seen on the previous model.
A Return to Rounder Corners
Moving beyond pure dimensions, the S26 Ultra is expected to move away from the sharp, boxy aesthetic of the past. Reports suggest the device will feature noticeably rounder corners compared to the 2025 model. This shift helps align the Ultra model more closely with the standard Galaxy S flagship identity, distancing it from the "Galaxy Note" style. This change is also expected to improve ergonomics and comfort during one-handed use.
The Redesigned S Pen Clicker
Historically, the S Pen has featured a flat clicker button at the top. However, this is reportedly changing for the 2026 model. Leaks suggest that the S Pen holster has been moved so close to the side frame that its entry point now overlaps with the curved corner of the phone.
Consequently, the S Pen clicker will now follow the asymmetrical contour of that corner, making it taller on one side and shorter on the other. While a minor detail, it represents a significant departure from standard S Pen designs used for years.
The Return of the Camera Hump
One of the most visually striking changes is the return of a formal camera housing, as seen in a leaked teaser image. Since the S22 Ultra, Samsung has utilized individual floating camera rings. The S21 Ultra was the last flagship to use a unified housing structure.
This design element is making a comeback, though in a much more subtle and refined manner than the large bumps of 2021. It provides a more integrated look for the rear sensor array.
Display and Selfie Camera Cutout
The Infinity-O display cutout for the front-facing camera is also expected to see a slight increase in width. This change is likely driven by hardware requirements rather than aesthetic choice; rumors suggest the new selfie camera offers a wider field of view, requiring a slightly larger lens opening.
New Color Options for 2026
Samsung will introduce a fresh palette for its next-generation device. The leaked list of finishes currently includes Black, Cobalt Violet, Pink Gold, Silver Shadow, SkyBlue, and White. The White variant is reportedly particularly impressive in person. It remains to be seen which of these will be standard and which will be exclusive to the Samsung online store.
The official unveiling of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to take place on February 25 at the next Unpacked event. For those wanting to stay ahead, you can read more here regarding the full S26 series specifications.
What are the exact dimensions of the Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to measure 163.6 x 78.1 mm, making it slightly taller and wider than the S25 Ultra, while reducing its thickness to 7.9mm.
How has the S Pen design changed?
The S Pen holster is now closer to the corner of the frame, causing the clicker button to be redesigned with an asymmetrical shape that matches the phone's corner contour.
Is Samsung bringing back the camera housing?
Yes, unlike the individual lens rings found on the S22 through S25 Ultra models, the S26 Ultra is rumored to feature a subtle, unified camera housing reminiscent of the S21 Ultra.
What are the rumored colors for the Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The leaked color options include Black, Cobalt Violet, Pink Gold, Silver Shadow, SkyBlue, and White.
Why is the front camera cutout larger?
The Infinity-O cutout is slightly wider because the new front-facing camera hardware reportedly offers a wider field of view, necessitating a larger physical lens opening.
🔎 The Galaxy S26 Ultra represents a thoughtful evolution of Samsung's design philosophy, balancing modern trends like slimmer profiles with functional improvements in ergonomics. By reintroducing elements like the camera housing and refining the S Pen's integration, Samsung is ensuring that its 2026 flagship feels both fresh and familiar to its dedicated user base.
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