A leaked retail unit of Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra reveals a potential change to the smartphone’s S Pen functionality: a single, correct insertion method. Content creator Sahil Karoul, who obtained the device prior to its official launch, reported that the stylus must be inserted with the button facing upward to align with the phone’s curved design.
According to Karoul’s findings, attempting to insert the S Pen with the button facing downward causes the stylus to protrude from the device, due to a mismatch between the stylus’ curvature and the phone’s edge.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra and previous iterations in the series, allow for flexible S Pen insertion, accommodating the stylus with the button facing either up or down without issue. This change in design with the S26 Ultra suggests a refinement in the phone’s overall form factor, potentially prioritizing a flush profile.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics is reportedly developing a new manufacturing process for camera lenses intended to slim the camera module of the S26 Ultra, according to giga.de. This innovation involves printing a matte coating directly onto the lenses, eliminating the need for space-consuming anti-reflective films. The thinner camera module could contribute to a more streamlined device, potentially influencing the S Pen’s insertion mechanism.
GSMarena.com data indicates the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be announced on February 25, 2026, following the S25 Ultra’s release on February 3, 2025. The S26 Ultra is expected to maintain the same IP68 water resistance and Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X display technology as its predecessor.
The potential limitation in S Pen insertion comes as Samsung faces increased competition in the smartphone market, with its Galaxy S25 Ultra recently falling from the top five in one industry ranking, according to chip.de. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will need to demonstrate significant improvements to regain its position.
