Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. S25 Ultra: I compared the flagship phones to decide the better buy

2026-03-10 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra represents an experiential upgrade over its predecessor, the S25 Ultra, introducing significant features like Privacy Display and enhanced agentic AI. While maintaining the same 6.9-inch QDH+ 120Hz AMOLED display resolution and refresh rate, the S26 Ultra integrates a pixel-level Privacy Display to limit viewing angles, preventing screen eavesdropping in public. Ergonomically, the new model is Samsung's slimmest Ultra phone at 7.9mm thick and 214 grams, offering a more comfortable in-hand feel compared to the S25 Ultra's sharper edges and 218-gram weight. It also features improved agentic AI, allowing voice-activated contextual actions without navigating settings or apps, and supports 60W fast charging for its 5,000mAh battery, an upgrade from the S25 Ultra's 45W charging.

Key takeaway

For professionals who prioritize digital privacy in public spaces or seek a more comfortable, lighter device, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display and refined ergonomics make it a compelling upgrade. If you frequently use voice commands for device interaction, the enhanced agentic AI could significantly streamline your workflow. However, if you use a phone case and are not swayed by AI features, consider the S25 Ultra, especially if found under $800.

Key insights

The Galaxy S26 Ultra offers key upgrades in privacy, ergonomics, and AI over the S25 Ultra.

Principles

• Pixel-level display features enhance privacy.
• Agentic AI enables intuitive voice control.
• Reduced thickness and weight improve phone ergonomics.

In practice

• Activate Privacy Display for sensitive information.
• Utilize agentic AI for voice-controlled tasks.
• Consider S26 Ultra for improved in-hand comfort.

Topics

• Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
• Agentic AI
• Privacy Display
• Smartphone Comparison
• Mobile Technology

Best for: General Interest, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.