Samsung continues its removal of Bluetooth features from the Galaxy S Ultra series' signature stylus, limiting remote control capabilities for the second consecutive year.
Samsung has confirmed through early hardware sightings that the Galaxy S26 Ultra's S Pen will not include Bluetooth connectivity, continuing a controversial trend started with last year's S25 Ultra. This confirmation comes from a hands-on video by YouTuber Sahil Karoul, who acquired an unreleased S26 Ultra unit.
The absence of Bluetooth means the S Pen reverts to basic stylus functionality, eliminating features that previously distinguished Samsung's flagship stylus:
- Remote camera shutter control
- Media playback navigation
- Presentation slide advancement
- Gesture-based app controls
These capabilities were core to Samsung's productivity ecosystem since their introduction with the Note 9 in 2018. Their removal represents a significant simplification of the S Pen experience.
Industry analysts suggest this hardware simplification aligns with Samsung's broader cost-reduction strategies. Removing Bluetooth components likely lowers production expenses while maintaining compatibility with the phone's silo charging mechanism. The S26 Ultra retains physical S Pen housing despite the feature reduction, dispelling rumors of complete stylus removal.
For consumers, this means evaluating whether premium pricing aligns with reduced functionality. Those needing advanced stylus features may consider Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series or Galaxy Tab devices, which retain full Bluetooth S Pen capabilities. Samsung's continued investment in AI-based software features appears to be offsetting hardware reductions in their flagship positioning.
The S26 series launches globally on March 8, with pre-orders opening February 29.
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