Galaxy S26 Ultra vs S25 Ultra: A Softer Design and New ‘Pill’ Camera Module
The renowned leaker Ice Universe has struck again. On X, he shared side-by-side images of screen protectors comparing the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, revealing several subtle yet notable changes in the design of Samsung’s next flagship.
Galaxy S26 Ultra: A Rounder and Slightly Taller Design
The images clearly indicate that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature more rounded corners, moving away from the angular “Note” design that characterized the S25 Ultra. “The Galaxy S26 Ultra adopts smoother lines but remains less rounded than an iPhone 17 Pro Max,” notes Ice Universe.
Expected dimensions:
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.9 mm, weighing 219 g
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: 163.4 x 77.9 x ~9.0 mm (including camera module), weighing 217 g
The display is expected to remain a 6.9-inch AMOLED LTPO 120 Hz, but with more curved display corners and slightly slimmer edges.
Other Upcoming Aesthetic Changes
According to previous reports:
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be thinner in structure but slightly thicker at the camera block.
- Samsung will introduce a new “pill” camera module that houses three of the four main sensors.
- The back is expected to remain in frosted glass but will feature a softer finish inspired by the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
“Individually, these changes may seem minor. Together, they give the S26 Ultra a more fluid and contemporary visual identity,” summarizes Ice Universe.
The R angle design of S26 Ultra is more beautiful than that of S25 Ultra. pic.twitter.com/feAw9C4HYT
—PhoneArt (@UniverseIce) November 5, 2025
Under the Hood: More Power but at What Cost?
In terms of performance, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy (or the Exynos 2600 in Europe and Korea, based on the latest leaks). It will feature a new generation of camera sensors, including an improved 200-megapixel sensor and a revamped telephoto lens, along with optimized thermal management for video recording and intensive gaming.
However, these enhancements come with a price. According to a recent report, the cost of essential components — processors, camera modules, and LPDDR5 memory — has surged by 8 to 16% this year.
Expected pricing:
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: $1,299
- Galaxy S26 Ultra: $1,349 to $1,399 (estimated), an increase of $50 to $100
A Less “Note,” More Universal Design
Samsung seems to be softening the aesthetic of the Ultra lineup to align it more closely with the style of classic Galaxy S devices — even echoing the smoother design of the iPhone. This repositioning aims to modernize the flagship model’s silhouette while differentiating it from its predecessors, often considered “too technical.”
The Galaxy S26 Ultra may not revolutionize the range, but it could signify a refinement of design and experience: more harmonious, lighter, and presumably more expensive.
The announcement is expected on February 25, 2026, during a Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco.
