Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra has arrived in the hands of a tech YouTuber ahead of its official unveiling, and the early leaks are raising eyebrows—not for the phone’s hardware, but for what’s missing.
The S Pen, a hallmark of Samsung’s Ultra series, appears to be stripped of Bluetooth functionality for the second year in a row. Unlike previous iterations, pressing the stylus’s button no longer triggers the camera remotely, a feature that relied on Bluetooth connectivity. This omission, first noted in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has resurfaced despite petitions from users demanding its return.
For Samsung, the decision may stem from a strategic shift: the S Pen is an accessory used by a niche audience, and the company may prioritize other innovations over Bluetooth support. Yet for photographers, artists, and power users, the absence of this feature could be a dealbreaker.
What’s Changed Since Last Year?
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s S Pen was already expected to follow a familiar trajectory—one where Samsung trims features rather than expands them. Last year’s S25 Ultra removed Bluetooth from the stylus, and now the S26 Ultra appears to carry the same limitation. Early hands-on tests confirm that the S Pen’s button no longer activates the camera, a function that once allowed users to snap photos without reaching for the phone.
This isn’t the only controversy surrounding the S26 Ultra. Rumors suggest Samsung is doubling down on its high-margin components, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, which has already outperformed Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max in benchmark tests. Meanwhile, the 5,000mAh battery—larger than previous flagships—aims to improve endurance, though real-world testing will determine if it lives up to expectations.
A Stylus Without Bluetooth: Who Cares?
The S Pen’s Bluetooth omission may seem minor to casual users, but for those who rely on the stylus for productivity or creative work, it’s a notable step backward. Bluetooth connectivity enabled features like remote camera capture, note-taking with voice commands, and seamless pairing with other devices. Without it, the S Pen becomes a more limited tool—one that’s primarily useful for screen interactions rather than advanced workflows.
Samsung’s focus appears to be shifting toward hardware upgrades that appeal to a broader audience, such as a privacy display (rumored to address privacy concerns) and a refined camera system. While these improvements may justify the Ultra’s premium pricing, the S Pen’s limitations could leave some wondering whether Samsung is catering to the masses at the expense of its most dedicated users.
What Else Is New?
Beyond the S Pen controversy, leaks suggest the Galaxy S26 Ultra is packing serious specs. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy is expected to deliver strong performance, while the 5,000mAh battery aims to extend usage compared to the S25 Ultra’s 5,000mAh cell. Samsung is also rumored to be emphasizing practical features over incremental upgrades, such as higher refresh rates or peak brightness, which may resonate with users who prioritize functionality over flashy specs.
As for availability, Samsung has yet to confirm pricing or release dates, but the Galaxy Unpacked event looms, where the company may address these concerns—or double down on its current strategy.
