After spending time with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, I found it to be far more impressive than I initially anticipated. At first glance, its specifications seemed like just another minor update in a long line of similar releases, but using the phone revealed there are many appealing features. Even subtle enhancements can lead to significant improvements.
It’s almost disheartening to think that rumors for the Galaxy S27 have already begun circulating, with expectations for a wave of information to follow shortly. With that in mind, here are three adjustments I would like Samsung to consider for the upcoming model.
What upgrades do users want to see in the Galaxy S27 Ultra?
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Three changes I hope for in the Galaxy S27 Ultra
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera system is competent, particularly in well-lit conditions, with high-quality performance from the primary, telephoto, and ultrawide lenses. However, challenges arise in less favorable lighting scenarios, such as taking pictures of a black cat or using the 3x telephoto lens.
Indeed, both the Galaxy S26 Ultra and my Z Fold 7 struggle to capture images of my cat, which is quite frustrating.
When attempting to photograph pets in dim light, this phone often fails to focus properly and struggles to enter macro mode. In contrast, my Pixel 10 Pro and Razr Fold don’t exhibit this issue, indicating that the S26 Ultra may need improvements in its focusing abilities.
Another annoyance is that the macro mode button doesn’t consistently show up in Samsung’s camera app. It only appears when the camera detects proximity to a subject, which it often fails to do. As a result, I end up using the ultrawide option, leading to distorted images.
The 3x telephoto camera warrants attention as well. It remains largely unchanged from the Galaxy S21 Ultra, while the other sensors have received significant updates. Originally, the 3x lens served a purpose as it bridged the gap between the 1x and the 10x periscope lens. However, now that the 10x has been replaced with a 5x lens in the S24 Ultra, the 3x option isn’t as necessary. In fact, the 200MP main sensor produces superior images at 3x crops, so it often takes precedence over the dedicated 3x lens.
Next, let’s discuss design. I appreciate variety in smartphone aesthetics, but I believe integrating Qi2 magnets is crucial. Not having these magnets is partly due to camera arrangements, which hinder their functionality on devices like my S26 Ultra, particularly with accessories like battery banks.
Redesigning the camera layout could enhance this situation and refresh an otherwise outdated design, possibly by repositioning the 5x lens or removing the unnecessary 3x sensor. Such changes are imperative for a more seamless experience.
Maintain the remaining features as they are
Overall, the Galaxy S26 Ultra performs excellently. While a larger silicon-carbon battery for the S27 Ultra would be appreciated, the impressive battery life of the S26, which lasts all day under heavy usage, makes it less of a pressing concern.
In general, the device’s performance is exceptional, One UI remains a standout version of Android, and the camera quality is fantastic, despite the earlier mentioned limitations. While we often seek more exciting advancements, tangible leaps in technology are becoming rare, and that’s acceptable.
If the Galaxy S27 Ultra matches the capabilities of the S26 Ultra and addresses its camera shortcomings, it could come very close to an ideal smartphone.
