UPDATE: The highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S26 series has officially launched, but it is already facing criticism for missing several expected features. Released on October 20, 2023, these latest smartphones are seen as iterative upgrades rather than groundbreaking innovations, raising questions among tech enthusiasts about their value.
Despite anticipation, the Galaxy S26 lineup lacks key features that consumers were hoping for, leaving many disappointed. Here are five notable omissions that stand out:
1. **Silicon-Carbon Batteries**: While competitors like the OnePlus 15 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra have embraced silicon-carbon batteries for enhanced capacity, the Galaxy S26 series continues to rely on a standard 5,000mAh battery. This puts Samsung at a disadvantage as brands begin to offer batteries with capacities soaring to 7,000-9,000mAh. Samsung officials have indicated future plans for this technology, but it does not address current consumer needs.
2. **Built-In Magnets for Accessories**: Rumors suggested the Galaxy S26 would incorporate built-in magnets akin to Apple’s MagSafe, allowing easy attachment of chargers and accessories. Instead, Samsung opted for cases with magnets, limiting functionality for users who prefer a case-free design. This has left many tech fans yearning for the convenience that other brands are already providing.
3. **Powered-Off Find Hub Tracking**: A standout feature available on Pixel devices is the ability to track phones even when turned off using Google’s Find Hub network. Unfortunately, the Galaxy S26 series does not support this capability, restricting users to Samsung’s SmartThings Find, which requires the phone to be powered on. This limitation highlights a missed opportunity for enhanced security and convenience.
4. **Lack of Vibrant Color Options**: Early expectations included a flashy orange colorway similar to the new iPhone 17 series. However, the Galaxy S26 is limited to more traditional colors: Black, White, Sky Blue, and Cobalt Violet, alongside exclusive options like Silver Shadow and Pink Gold. While the selection is decent, many users are left wanting more exciting choices.
5. **Insufficient Charging Power**: The Galaxy S26 Ultra has seen some upgrades, now supporting 60W wired charging and 25W wireless charging. Yet, the standard Galaxy S26 remains stagnant with just 25W wired and 15W wireless, falling well behind rivals like the OnePlus 15, which boasts 120W wired and 50W wireless capabilities. This disparity positions Samsung in a tough spot as fast charging becomes a critical consumer demand.
As consumers weigh their options, the immediate relevance of these features cannot be overstated. The Galaxy S26 series, despite its launch, may not meet the expectations of those looking for innovation and advancement.
What’s next? Tech enthusiasts will be closely monitoring Samsung’s response to these criticisms and whether future updates will address these missing features. With the competitive smartphone market heating up, Samsung cannot afford to fall behind.
Stay tuned for updates as we dive deeper into full reviews and user feedback on the Galaxy S26 series. The tech community is eager to see if Samsung can turn around the narrative surrounding this latest release. Share your thoughts on the S26 series and whether these missing features impact your buying decision.
