The launch of Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is just days away, but details surrounding the highly anticipated release have been leaking at an unprecedented rate. What began as typical pre-release image leaks has escalated into devices and software falling into the hands of tech YouTubers and online stores in Bangladesh, and Dubai.
A smartphone launch is a complex operation requiring meticulous control over every stage. A breach in security can lead to premature access to devices and software, diminishing the impact of the official unveiling. It can also result in leaks of marketing materials, such as AI-generated advertisements, potentially damaging the company’s image.
Samsung has seemingly lost control of the launch process in Bangladesh, where Gadget Root BD, a retailer not officially partnered with the Korean manufacturer, has obtained several units of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Promotional materials already reveal that the Ultra model will feature a 5000 mAh battery, the same capacity as the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra. This decision places the new device behind some competitors in terms of battery size.
The telephoto lens, offering 5x optical zoom, is expected to include a 50-megapixel sensor, enabling lossless 10x zoom. However, a recent leak has highlighted another key feature set to define this year’s releases.
Privacy Screen Details Emerge
Bangladesh isn’t the only location where Samsung’s launch plans have been disrupted. Sahil Karoul, a tech content creator based in Dubai, gained early access to a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. He showcased the device, confirming that the S Pen stylus will no longer utilize Bluetooth connectivity and features an asymmetrical design, allowing it to be inserted into the housing in only one orientation. Karoul focused primarily on the “Privacy screen,” a flagship feature for the new series.
A video demonstration shows the feature effectively reduces the viewing angle of the screen, obscuring its contents with a blueish glow. In addition to a standard setting, users will have access to a “maximum privacy” option, which will likely further impact the image quality for the device’s owner.
Karoul conducted several benchmark tests and assessed the phone’s performance and thermal management. The results of the 3D Mark Wild Life Extreme Stress Test, measuring sustained performance under heavy load, showed only 53.2% stability, which is a potential concern.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor achieved a score exceeding 3.7 million points. However, the Antutu Benchmark v11 score, although high, wasn’t as impressive due to changes in the benchmark’s methodology. Users commenting on Karoul’s post have reported higher scores on other devices. Whether the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy will experience thermal throttling or if these results are due to pre-release software remains to be seen.
Source: Sahil Karoul on X
