
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has all the makings of the best Android phone yet. It packs a new Privacy Display that can keep prying eyes off your sensitive data. The cameras promise way better low-light images and video. And, of course, there’s a dizzying array of new AI features that will (hopefully) make your life easier, including a smarter Gemini that can now help order Ubers and tonight’s dinner for you.
Then again, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s starting price of $1,299 is pretty frickin’ steep — even though it hasn’t changed versus the S25 Ultra. And there’s some drawbacks you need to know about this device. We’re in the process of doing our full Galaxy S26 Ultra review, but if you’re thinking of pre-ordering now, here’s some pros and cons I think you need to know.