New rumors circulating on technology forums and social networks indicate a controversial decision by Samsung for its next high-end smartphone. Informações based on accessory leaks suggest that the Galaxy S26 Ultra, expected to launch in early 2026, will not have built-in magnetic support for the Qi2 wireless charging standard. Essa absence represents a cold shower for consumers who expected the full adoption of the technology, already present in several competitors.
The main consequence of this design choice is that the magnetic alignment functionality, which facilitates the connection of chargers, external batteries and vehicle supports, will depend exclusively on the use of special covers. Usuários who prefer to use the device without additional protection or with minimalist cases will not have direct access to this ecosystem of accessories, a limitation seen as a setback in a premium category device.
Qi2.2 means no reverse wireless and no S Pen. S26 Ultra has all except 1.
Let that sink.pic.twitter.com/0k6L4aHGOP
—Schrödinger (@phonefuturist)February 4, 2026
Expectations surrounding the native implementation of Qi2 were high, as it would be one of the few truly tangible hardware innovations for the new generation. The decision, if confirmed, reinforces the perception that Samsung has adopted a conservative stance in updating the Galaxy S Ultra line in recent years, focusing on incremental software and camera improvements rather than significant technological leaps in usability.
What does the lack of integrated Qi2 represent for the user
The Qi2 standard is the natural evolution of wireless charging, incorporating a ring of magnets that ensures perfect alignment between the smartphone and the accessory. Essa technology, popularized by Apple with MagSafe, not only makes the charging process more convenient and safe, preventing accidental slips, but also improves energy efficiency by optimizing energy transfer. The absence of internal magnets in the body of the Galaxy S26 Users are deprived of the “dock and load” experience that has become common in other ecosystems.
In practice, the limitation directly impacts daily life. Acessórios such as magnetic wallets, car mounts that hold the phone firmly in place or power banks that attach to the back of the device become unfeasible without an adapter case. Samsung should continue to offer its own magnetic covers, but this turns a feature that should be intrinsic to the device into a paid accessory. The measure creates an obstacle to the user experience, who expects maximum integrated functionality when investing in a smartphone that costs more than a thousand dollars, forcing them to purchase an extra component to match their device to competing models.
S Pen could be the main technical obstacle
Industry experts speculate that the main technical reason for the omission of magnets in the Galaxy S26 Ultra is related to its most iconic functionality: the S Pen. The stylus uses electromagnetic resonance technology to communicate with the screen, allowing for precise pressure levels and tilt detection.
The introduction of a strong magnetic ring on the back of the device could generate interference in this electromagnetic field, compromising the accuracy and functionality of the S Pen, especially at the edges of the screen. Diante of this challenge, Samsung may have chosen to prioritize the writing and drawing experience over the convenience of magnetic charging.
This hypothesis is reinforced by leaks that indicate that the models Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus, which do not support S Pen, will also follow the same path and will not have integrated magnets. Isso suggests a decision to standardize across the entire line, possibly to simplify production or maintain design consistency across models.
Still, the decision raises questions, as other manufacturers have already faced and resolved similar technical challenges to integrate new technologies without sacrificing existing resources. Samsung’s persistence in this limitation raises questions about the priorities of its research and development department.
Comparison with the market and competition
The absence of native Qi2 puts the Galaxy S26 Ultra at a disadvantage compared to its main rivals. The Apple has consolidated the MagSafe ecosystem since the launch of the iPhone 12 in 2020, creating a vast market of first- and third-party accessories that have become a huge draw for users.
In the Android universe, the Google has already taken a step forward by implementing native Qi2 magnetic support in its Pixel line. Essa adoption has positioned the brand’s devices as a reference in convenience and modernity, offering its customers the complete experience expected from a high-end smartphone.
By not following this trend, Samsung risks looking like a company that is falling behind in usability innovation, even as it continues to lead in other areas like photography and screen quality. Para many consumers, small convenience details can be decisive when purchasing.
Accessories strategy and the Samsung ecosystem
Despite the device’s apparent lack of magnets, the Samsung isn’t completely ignoring the Qi2 standard. Vazamentos confirm the launch of a new official magnetic wireless charger, with 25W power and Qi2 certification. Este product, however, reinforces the idea that the complete experience will depend on a compatible cover.
The line of official covers from Samsung itself should be divided, offering traditional versions and others with a built-in magnetic ring. Essa approach gives the consumer choice, but it also fragments the experience and can create confusion. The existence of non-magnetic cases sold by the manufacturer itself is the clearest sign that the phone’s hardware does not have the feature natively.
Incremental innovation in the Galaxy S Ultra line
The controversy surrounding the Qi2 is part of a larger debate about the evolution of the Galaxy S Ultra series. Although the device continues to be one of the most powerful on the market, with cutting-edge specifications, criticism about the stagnation of its design and hardware has increased. Há several generations, the model maintains the same battery capacity of 5,000 mAh and a design with only subtle changes, making it difficult to distinguish between annual launches. Innovations focused on software improvements, especially artificial intelligence, and the continuous improvement of its already excellent camera suite, with high-resolution sensors and powerful optical zoom. Contudo, for many owners of previous models, these incremental advances do not justify the upgrade, and the absence of a widely adopted convenience feature like magnetic Qi2 only accentuates the feeling that the Samsung is in a comfort zone, leaving aside practical advances that improve the daily user experience.
Expectations for the official announcement
Samsung is expected to officially present the Galaxy S26 line at its traditional Unpacked event, scheduled for early February 2026. Até there, specifications may undergo changes, although hardware changes of this magnitude are unlikely at such an advanced stage of development.
Other rumors point to welcome improvements, such as an increase in base storage capacity and new AI features integrated into the One UI. However, the narrative surrounding the launch may be dominated by discussion about the absence of native magnetic charging.
The Qi2 standard advances in the market
Regardless of Samsung’s strategy, the Qi2 standard continues to gain traction in the Android ecosystem. Diversos manufacturers, especially Chinese brands, are already incorporating the technology into their mid-range and premium models, accelerating its adoption and popularization. Isso indicates that magnetic charging will soon be a standard feature, and its absence on Samsung devices will become even more evident.
