4 Things I Learned After 3 Weeks with the S26 Ultra

Why It Matters

The S26 Ultra’s strong battery and advanced DeX mode bolster Samsung’s flagship value, while camera and AI shortcomings may shift discerning buyers toward competing brands.

Key Takeaways

• 5,000 mAh battery lasts full day despite heavy use.
• Samsung's optimization keeps 7+ hours screen time at 50% charge.
• Camera lacks high‑quality triple‑zoom sensor compared to rivals.
• AI features feel inconsistent; keyboard nudges rarely add value.
• DeX 8.5 transforms phone into versatile desktop with multitasking.

Summary

The video is a three‑week hands‑on review of Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra, covering battery endurance, camera performance, AI utilities, and the revamped DeX desktop mode. The reviewer expected the 5,000 mAh cell to be a limitation, but Samsung’s power‑management tweaks deliver a comfortable full‑day experience even with over seven hours of screen time, often leaving half the charge untouched.

Key observations include a surprisingly robust battery, a camera system that feels dated because the three‑times zoom lens still uses a tiny sensor, and AI features that are hit‑or‑miss—fun image‑editing tricks contrast with largely irrelevant keyboard nudges. The most striking upgrade is DeX 8.5, which now offers a true desktop‑like UI with multiple windows, alt‑tab switching, and app snapping, positioning the phone as a potential laptop replacement.

The reviewer notes specific moments: “7 + hours of screen on time, still around 50 % left,” and laments the lack of a high‑quality triple‑zoom sensor that competitors like Oppo and OnePlus now provide. While AI image edits amuse, the keyboard’s contextual suggestions fall short, echoing the S25 Ultra’s underwhelming performance. DeX’s new capabilities are highlighted as a game‑changer, with a dedicated video promised for deeper exploration.

For consumers and industry watchers, the S26 Ultra’s battery success may reinforce Samsung’s flagship appeal, but the camera shortfall could drive premium users toward rivals offering superior zoom optics. Meanwhile, DeX’s evolution could redefine Android’s productivity narrative, making the device attractive to professionals seeking a single, versatile tool.

Original Description

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