[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The s26 ultra is a capable phone, especially in the US market where more advanced hardware is unavailable. The interface is snappy, the screen is excellent, and the build quality is sturdy. I use the phone across business and personal activities, and it switches between the apps well.
Unfortunately, the software and industry's incessant push for all things AI (Galaxy AI in this case) mars a clean slate. From the moment of setup, the offers of "help" never end, like a sugar-addled preschooler who can't stay out of the kitchen. Transitioning from a Google Pixel has also been a challenge, as the ghost of Gemini also vies for attention. Meanwhile, simple instructions you could actually expect a 5 year old to help with, such as "call grandma", present insurmountable challenges.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] As someone whos last phone was a samsung note 20ultra, is nice to come back to the samsung ecosystem with this refreshing take of their new flagship phone. It's everything that i loved from my last phone and more.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The S26 Ultra is a huge step up from my S22 Ultra. The camera and privacy screen option are awesome!
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I have been a samsung user for close to 10 years. I previously had the Samsung s24 ultra and while I loved the phone and the camera, I wanted to treat myself to something new with the previous phone having just been paid off. I loved the advertised feature of the privacy screen turn on. I can turn it on while at work and leave it off at home. I love having the freedom to change the quality of my screen viewing experience compared to continuously having a privacy screen protector on my phone all of the time. The reviews of the loss of color on the phone are valid because in comparison to the screen without the privacy feature, there is a difference. But when you're and individual who really only wants it on while out in public or work, i love having the ability to choose it only for specific apps or easily turn it on or off at work. While I havent noted much of a difference from he Galaxy AI experience from my S24ultra to this phone, I have noticed much faster use of AI search ability and overall use and understanding of this phone. Plus the rounded corners feel much better to hold when in use. I'm so happy!
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] After spending some time with the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, I can honestly say it feels like one of the most powerful and polished smartphones Samsung has made. From the moment I picked it up, the phone felt premium and solid. Everything looks incredibly sharp and smooth, whether I’m watching videos, scrolling social media, or gaming. One of the biggest things that impressed me is Galaxy AI. The phone feels smarter than previous models. Features like Photo Assist let me edit pictures easily—removing objects or adjusting the background with just a few taps. It almost feels like having a built-in photo editor in my pocket. The AI also suggests actions based on what I’m doing, which makes everyday tasks faster and more convenient.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I recently started using the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and it quickly became an essential part of my everyday routine. The display is incredibly bright and detailed, making everything from reading and messaging to watching videos very enjoyable. The camera is outstanding. Photos look sharp, natural, and full of detail even in challenging lighting. I enjoy taking pictures during my walks and capturing beautiful landscapes, and the results are impressive. Galaxy AI features are also very helpful in daily life. They make writing, searching for information, and organizing tasks faster and easier. The phone feels very fast and responsive, and everything works smoothly. The battery life is strong and easily lasts through a busy day. I also appreciate the elegant design and premium feel of the device. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is a powerful smartphone that combines performance, innovation, and a beautiful display. It fits perfectly into everyday life and I truly enjoy using it.
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I'll be straight with you — I wasn't expecting to be this impressed. I've used a lot of flagship phones, and they all start to blur together after a while. The S26 Ultra actually broke that cycle for me. The display is gorgeous. The Privacy Display feature alone has become something I didn't know I needed — being able to block side-angle views on demand feels like a small luxury I now can't live without. Commuting with it is a completely different experience. The cameras are ridiculous in the best way. I took some shots at a dinner last weekend in pretty dim lighting and the results looked almost professionally edited. No filters, no tweaking — just point and shoot. But honestly? Galaxy AI is what keeps surprising me. I was fully prepared to ignore it like every other "AI feature" that ends up being useless after day three. That didn't happen. The Now Nudge suggestions are weirdly well-timed — it picks up on what I'm doing and nudges me in the right direction without being annoying about it. The photo editing prompts are genuinely fun to use too. I've edited more photos in the past week than I have all year. It's not a dramatic redesign. If you're coming from the S25 Ultra, you'll notice the differences gradually rather than immediately. But if you're a couple of generations behind? You'll feel the leap instantly. Best Android phone I've held. Simple as that
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Just upgraded from my s24 ultra. I was disappointed when Samsung began getting rid of the sharp corners so I slipped the 25. I guess it grew on me, but I love this device. I'd prefer them not to continue increasing the curve, the 25U was less than the 26U. Oneui 8.5 is great, smooth as butter and beautifully designed. Galaxy AI is great, I've returned to bixby after using Gemini for a while. Battery life is great and I'm only on day 6, from experience I know it will improve once the learning of habits by the software finishes. Love the privacy display. Just another great ultra device, the king of smartphones year after year.