Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra design leak suggests it could look even more like an iPhone 17 Pro Max — here's how

There's an argument that many of the best smartphones are getting too similar to tell them apart. If you also think everything is starting to look the same, then a new leak about the Galaxy S26 Ultra's design could be bad news.

While we still have a while to wait before we see the Galaxy S26 series, the rumor mill is in full effect. This includes a recent series of images and a video posted on X by well-known leaker Ice Universe. The images in question show what appears to be the new display design for the Galaxy S26 Ultra compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

If these images are accurate, then Samsung could be opting for a more rounded design when it comes to the display. While it isn't quite at the same level as the iPhone, it is noticeably different in comparison to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

These images also match a prior post from the leaker that shows an apparent screen protector for the entire Galaxy S26 range, indicating this will be a model-wide change.

Meanwhile, the shared video gives us an idea of what this could look like in practice. The composite in the video looks more streamlined and could help to solve some complaints users have had with the older design, which led to it being uncomfortable to hold.

What else do we know about the Galaxy S26 Ultra?

We have heard several other rumors about the Galaxy S26 series, including that the release could be noticeably delayed. The issue, according to sources, is that the low sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge have led to Samsung halting production of the Galaxy S26 Edge.

The issue for Samsung is that it had reportedly planned to replace the Galaxy S26 Plus with the Edge in the next launch. However, it appears to have reverted to its usual lineup, but has had to delay Galaxy Unpacked until later in February. As such, we likely won't see the phones hit the shelves until mid-March to allow Samsung to offer pre-orders.

Unfortunately, we could also see Samsung increase the price of the phone. Reportedly, this is due to a price increase regarding certain important parts, like the RAM and chips. Samsung could combat this by utilizing certain parts from prior models, like the camera sensor, or by using the Exynos 2600 chip in more models.

Even with that, a price hike might still happen when the phone is released. However, as noted by my colleague Richard Priday, the price increase likely won’t exceed $100 — or the regional equivalent — to help keep it in line with the iPhone.

However, it is worth noting that it is still very early days when it comes to leaks and rumors. As such, it's worth taking everything with a grain of salt. Let us know if you're excited for the next generation of Samsung phones, or if you're planning on waiting for the Galaxy S27 series.

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