This week, Samsung presented the Galaxy S26 Ultra, its main launch of the year, at an event held in São Francisco, in the Estados Unidos. The device arrives on the Brazilian market in pre-sale with a focus on directly competing in the premium segment occupied by the iPhone 17 Pro Max, from Apple, which has been available since September last year. Ambos the models concentrate advanced artificial intelligence, photography and performance technologies, which should intensify competition between the two brands in the coming months.
The two smartphones share a 6.9-inch screen with an adaptive refresh rate of 1 to 120 Hz, which guarantees fluidity in browsing and games. However, the Galaxy S26 Ultra adopts an AMOLED QHD+ panel with a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels, while the iPhone 17 The differences extend to exclusive features, such as the privacy mode on the Samsung model.
Prices in the Brazilian market
The values for the most equipped versions are very close. The 1 TB configuration of the Galaxy S26 Ultra costs R$15,499, the same price as the equivalent option on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The Samsung model offers 256 GB variants for R$11,499 and 512 GB for R$13,099. Já the iPhone 17
These prices reflect the premium positioning of the devices. Consumidores who prioritize greater storage capacity will find more options on the Apple device.
Design and color options
The Samsung chose to maintain lines similar to previous generations in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, with rounded edges and reduced weight for greater comfort in daily use. Available colors include classic shades such as black, white, silver, gold, blue and light lilac. The iPhone 17
The Apple model has slightly thicker and heavier dimensions compared to the South Korean competitor, which may influence ergonomics depending on the user’s preference.
Processors and artificial intelligence
The Galaxy S26 Ultra incorporates the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 of the Qualcomm, optimized for intensive tasks and AI capabilities. The system includes agents powered by Google and Perplexity, which assist in proactive actions on a daily basis. The iPhone 17 Pro Max uses the A19 Pro chip, developed in-house by Apple, with deep integration between CPU, GPU and Neural Engine.
Apple’s partnership with ChatGPT, from OpenAI, enhances artificial intelligence functions in the iOS ecosystem. Ambos processors deliver high performance in multitasking, video editing and demanding games.
Rear camera array
The main camera of the Galaxy S26 Ultra maintains 200 megapixels, now with a larger aperture of f/1.4 to capture more light in low-light environments. The set includes telephoto lenses with advanced optical zoom and ultrawide up to 50 MP. The Apple adopts 48-megapixel sensors on all three rear lenses, with the Fusion system combining hardware and software to generate final 24MP images optimized for storage.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max offers the Center Stage feature on the front, which keeps the frame centered during movements in video calls.
Front camera and AI features
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 12 MP front camera gains improvements via artificial intelligence to improve selfies and videos. The iPhone 17 Pro Max features an 18 MP front camera with support for the Center Stage, which automatically adjusts focus in dynamic recordings.
These features facilitate on-the-go content productions, such as live streams and virtual meetings.
Fast charging and battery
The Galaxy S26 Ultra supports charging up to 60 watts, reaching 75% capacity in about 30 minutes with a compatible charger, sold separately. The device includes a 25-watt charger in the box. The iPhone 17 Pro Max reaches around 50% in half an hour via 25-watt MagSafe or at least 30-watt USB-C adapter, also sold separately.
Both models prioritize practical speeds for everyday use.
Unwanted call filter
Both companies have implemented AI systems to filter calls from unknown numbers. The functionality answers the call, collects information and only passes the essential information to the user. Apple introduced the feature in September last year, and Samsung has taken the same approach in the new release.
This measure reduces interruptions from spam and telemarketing.
Screen with privacy mode
The Galaxy S26 Ultra debuts Privacy Display technology, which uses AI to darken pixels and prevent side views. The feature can be activated for the entire screen or for specific apps and notifications, increasing data protection in public environments. iPhone 17 Pro Max does not offer equivalent function.
This innovation from Samsung serves users concerned about privacy in transport or busy places.
The dispute between the Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro Max highlights advances in hardware and software from the two giants. Consumidores need to evaluate preferences for Android or iOS ecosystem, as well as specific features like optical zoom, charging, or privacy.
