Reactions to the rumored Galaxy S26 design have been negative.

Samsung’s flagship will look a lot like Samsung’s cheap phones, and you’re not in for this.

If it mirrors past models, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is projected to be a top-selling Samsung smartphone in 2026. Unlike its specialized devices, the S26 Ultra aims to highlight the accomplishments of the leading smartphone manufacturer.

Rather, Samsung intends to adapt and apply the camera layout of the affordable Galaxy A56 to the rear of its premium flagship. This is yet another move away from the original designs Samsung developed for its Ultra flagships in prior years, which is quite deflating.

Likely not a catastrophe.

To be sure, the design is not the key feature of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, but giving it the appearance of a mid-range device is unexpected. It's likely that the 25% who are less concerned about the design is partly why Samsung has chosen this strategy.

A larger factor could be that the company wants the Ultra to be less unique and more of a great Samsung phone. This is acceptable even if it is not ideal.