It’s finally here, Samsung fans. The Galaxy Unpacked event will take place in San Francisco today, February 25, 2026. It could possibly be the most advanced smartphone of the year if it features the features on offer in the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Spending over a thousand dollars on a new phone requires knowing what you’re getting. On the basis of all leaks, rumors, and early hands-on reports, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is confirmed.
Here we go.
Watch the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event.
Now is the time for Samsung’s big reveal. Watch the livestream to see the S26 Ultra in all its glory as it’s announced.
The event can be seen live in San Francisco in several ways:
- YouTube: Samsung’s YouTube channel will stream the entire event.
- Samsung.com: Click here to go to Samsung’s official website.
- Mashable Live Coverage: Tech outlets are providing live coverage.
Because Mashable’s team is on site in person, they will provide hands-on impressions once the embargo lifts.
What’s New in the Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The S26 Ultra looks like a meaningful upgrade rather than a minor update based on everything we’ve seen so far. Here’s what to expect.
Read More: Galaxy S26 Series: The Ultimate 2026 Guide – The Latest Information
Design: Evolutionary, Not Revolutionary
Anyone familiar with recent Samsung flagships will recognize the S26 Ultra’s silhouette. There are, however, some refinements. Possibly to accommodate the new sensor array or simply to give the phone a new look, the camera bump might be slightly redesigned on the back.
As with other Samsung phones, the phone has an armored aluminum frame and the latest Gorilla Glass protection.
Display: Still the Best in the Business
The S26 Ultra will continue Samsung’s streak of producing the best smartphone displays. A massive, beautiful Dynamic AMOLED screen delivers buttery-smooth refresh rates that can range from 1Hz for always-on to 120Hz for gaming and scrolling.
There is a rumor of a new Privacy Display mode. With this technology, the phone’s display narrows the viewing angle so someone next to you can’t see what’s on screen when you’re in public. A small change, but one that could make a big difference for someone paranoid about snooping eyes on crowded trains.
Cameras: Pushing the Boundaries
The S26 Ultra is rumored to have an impressive camera system. The main feature will be a 600MP sensor. That doesn’t mean you’ll always take 600-megapixel photos, though. A camera with that resolution can create a much cleaner, more detailed 37.5MP image with incredible low-light performance by combining data from multiple pixels.
In addition to improved optical image stabilization, Samsung’s computational photography makes the S26 Ultra perfect for photographers.
Battery and Charging: Insane Speeds
Charging speed is one of the most talked-about rumors. Wired charging is reported to be possible with the S26 Ultra. In other words, you’d go from zero to full in under 20 minutes. To reach those speeds, you’ll need a special charger, but even an older charger should be compatible with the phone.
The battery capacity should remain healthy, likely around 5,500mAh, ensuring long battery life even under heavy load.
AI and Software
Samsung, like many other tech companies, is heavily investing in artificial intelligence. One UI will be updated with AI-powered features for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Everything from advanced photo editing to real-time translation and smarter productivity tools could be included.
The Double Storage Pre-Order Deal You Don’t Want to Miss
Listen up if you plan on buying the S26 Ultra. Samsung is reportedly planning a killer pre-order promotion.
For the same price, pre-order the Galaxy S26 Ultra and get double the storage.
If you order a 256GB model, the 512GB version is free. If you order 512GB, you’ll get the 1TB model. It’s a classic Samsung pre-order strategy, but it works. Getting double storage for free is a fantastic incentive to lock in your order early.
In a Forbes article by Ewan Spence, he explained why pre-ordering is better than waiting.
Galaxy S26 Lineup: What’s the Difference?
It’s the S26 Ultra that’s the star, but it’s part of a family, too. Three phones are expected from Samsung:
- Galaxy S26: The base model. Smaller screen, slightly less advanced cameras, but still a flagship experience at a (somewhat) lower price.
- Galaxy S26 Plus: The middle child. It has a bigger screen than the base model and a larger battery but is missing some of the Ultra’s extreme features.
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: The absolute best Samsung has to offer. The biggest screen, the best cameras (including that 600MP sensor and likely a periscope zoom lens), the fastest charging, and the S Pen.
In terms of camera, screen size, and bells and whistles, the Ultra is unquestionably the best model. The Plus and base models are great if you don’t need the absolute maximum.
Should You Pre-Order or Wait?
The million-dollar question. My take on it.
Pre-Order If:
- You want the double storage deal. This is a genuine, valuable offer.
- You want the phone on day one and are excited about having the latest tech.
- You know you’re going to buy it anyway.
Wait if:
- You’re not sure about the upgrade. The S23 Ultra or S24 Ultra is still an excellent phone.
- You want to see real-world reviews from people who aren’t at a launch event.
- You’re hoping for a price drop (though that won’t happen for months).
Double storage is a compelling offer. A 512GB model at the price of a 256GB model is an excellent deal.
Conclusions
It looks like Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra will be another winner. If you’re looking for the best Android phone on the market, this phone combines a potentially huge camera upgrade, crazy fast charging, and useful software features.
It’s the pre-order double storage deal that tops it all off. A new flagship should be at the top of your list if you are in the market for one.
How do you like the new features? Pre-ordering or waiting for reviews? Feel free to leave a comment below.
