Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review: Frustratingly the best Android phone I've tested
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review: Frustratingly the best Android phone I've tested
"Samsung has been using a tried-and-tested formula for its S-series flagships since 2024: it pairs a quality-of-life display upgrade with a processor boost, slimmer design, new (sometimes questionable) AI features, and slightly better cameras. The latest follows this same script."
"I've been using it since launch, and features like Privacy Display, faster charging, and Horizontal Lock make for a better user experience. Are they enough to warrant an upgrade from its predecessor? No. But is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra one of the experiences available right now? Yes."
"Samsung continues to slash the weight and thickness of its premium phone. It has shaved 4 grams off the Galaxy S25 Ultra, bringing the S26 Ultra to 214 grams. The thinner, 7.9mm design is down from 8.2mm on the predecessor."
"However, Samsung is keeping the sharp sides on the back for another year. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is thinner and lighter but not considerably easier to hold than the Galaxy S25 Ultra. As I used the phone in daily life, I realized it wasn't comfortable to hold for long."
Samsung continues its proven strategy for S-series flagships by combining quality-of-life display enhancements with processor upgrades, slimmer designs, AI features, and improved cameras. The S26 Ultra maintains this formula without revolutionary changes from previous generations. The device achieves the slimmest and lightest profile among competitors at 214 grams and 7.9mm thickness, representing a 4-gram reduction from the S25 Ultra. Notable features include Privacy Display, faster charging, and Horizontal Lock functionality. However, the sharp sides remain uncomfortable for extended handheld use without a case. While incremental improvements don't justify upgrading from the S25 Ultra, the S26 Ultra remains one of the best premium phone experiences currently available.
Read at ZDNET
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