Units of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra have begun appearing for sale ahead of the official announcement, raising questions about the tech giant’s ability to maintain secrecy around its flagship product launches. Samsung’s extensive global distribution network, typically a strength allowing for immediate worldwide availability, appears to have turn into a vulnerability.
Reports surfacing on social media indicate that unofficial online stores in Bangladesh are already selling the new devices. These phones were intended to remain secured in warehouses under strict embargo until the official sales approval. Deliveries to customers have also reportedly begun from stores in Dubai selling the “African” version of the phone.
The highly anticipated Galaxy S26 Ultra is no longer a mystery for those awaiting the Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25. Tech vlogger Sahil Karoul obtained a device and quickly shared a detailed look at the phone’s features and design.
One of the most compelling revelations is the functionality of the new “Privacy Display” technology, a hardware feature previously discussed but never demonstrated in action. This innovation underscores Samsung’s continued focus on user privacy and data security in a mobile landscape increasingly concerned with digital surveillance.
Here are some key specifications highlighted in Karoul’s video:
Detailed Hardware Specifications
- Processor (SoC): Snapdragon 8 Elite (Generation 5).
- Memory and Storage: The tested model features 12 GB of RAM (LPDDR5X) and 256 GB of storage (UFS 4.1).
- Display: A 6.89-inch Samsung M14 Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X panel with a 2K resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, extremely thin bezels, and support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.
- Protection: Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass is used on both the front and back of the device.
- Battery and Charging: A 5000 mAh battery supports 60 W charging (promising 0 to 75% charge in 30 minutes). The package includes a Type-C to Type-C cable, a SIM ejector tool, and manuals, but does not include a charger.
- Connectivity and Audio: The version presented (the African market variant purchased in Dubai) supports two Nano SIM cards and comes with a 24-month warranty.
Photo/Video Camera System
- Main Camera: 200 Megapixels, with a 2x direct sensor zoom.
- Telephoto Camera 1: 50 Megapixels, capable of 5x and 10x optical zoom. This lens now features a fully circular design.
- Telephoto Camera 2: 10 Megapixels.
- Ultrawide Camera: 50 Megapixels.
- Front Camera: 12 Megapixels.
- Digital Zoom: Up to 100x. Images with 10x zoom benefit from a substantial “AI Boost” system that processes and enhances details immediately after capture.
- Video and Features: The rear camera records in 8K and 4K at 30/60 fps. It also offers 4K slow-motion video at 120 fps. The front camera records 4K video at 60 fps. Portrait mode can be used at 1x, 2x, 3x, and 5x.
Key Features, Performance, and Special Functions
- Privacy Display: This is the standout innovation. When activated, the screen appears completely black when viewed from side angles. This function can be set globally, for specific apps (like the Gallery), or only for pop-up notifications/OTPs.
- Gaming (PUBG Mobile): Allows for graphics settings at 120 fps (Ultra Extreme profile on Smooth), 90 fps (Extreme+ on Balanced), and 60 fps (Extreme on Ultra HDR).
- Benchmarks: Scored approximately 3.7 million points in AnTuTu. In Geekbench, it achieved 3648 points (Single-Core) and nearly 11,000 (Multi-Core).
- Cooling System: During normal use, gaming, and benchmarking, the device did not overheat. In the stress test, it reached a maximum temperature of 44°C (battery dropped by 9%, with fluctuations between 15 and 54 fps), and stability was measured at 53.2%.
Differences and Improvements Compared to the Samsung S25 Ultra
- Frame Material: Titanium has been discontinued. The S26 Ultra now uses an aluminum frame.
- Weight and Design: The new model is lighter (215 grams compared to 221 grams). The sides of the phone have been slightly rounded, the screen has increased to 6.89 inches, and the metal rings around the rear cameras have been removed.
- S Pen Modifications: The stylus no longer supports Bluetooth. The insertion method has also changed: it must be inserted with the button side up, unlike the S25 Ultra, which could be inserted on either side.
- Charging Speed: Increased from the previous generation to 60 W.
