Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra criticized for omitting native Qi2 charging

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has come under fire for failing to include built-in Qi2 compatibility, a move critics say leaves the flagship feeling outdated. The omission highlights a growing tension between Samsung's software-driven innovation and a perceived stagnation in its hardware design.

In a critique published by Android Police, author Mark Jansen argues that the absence of the new wireless charging standard is a significant oversight. While users can employ magnetic cases as a workaround to gain some functionality, Jansen contends that these third-party solutions lack the magnetic strength and seamless integration provided by native Qi2 support. "The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is stuck in the past," Jansen wrote, adding that he is no longer willing to overlook the deficiency.

The Qi2 Standard

Qi2 is the latest evolution in wireless charging, introducing a ring of magnets to the device's chassis. This design ensures precise alignment between the phone and the charger, maximizing efficiency and enabling a vast ecosystem of magnetic accessories. From snap-on power banks and car mounts to specialized game controllers, the standard allows users to attach peripherals to the back of their devices with ease. Jansen described this experience as "being able to stick things on the back of my phone, like it's the world's tiniest fridge."

A Pattern of Stagnation

For many observers, the lack of Qi2 is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a broader trend within the Galaxy Ultra line. According to Android Police, the hardware of the Ultra series has barely evolved since 2022. Most notably, Jansen points out that the battery size in these flagship devices has remained unchanged since 2020, suggesting that Samsung is relying on incremental processor updates and AI software features rather than meaningful physical upgrades.

Industry Implications

This hardware gap matters because it limits the utility of the phone for power users and accessory enthusiasts. In a market where competitors are moving toward unified magnetic standards, Samsung's refusal to integrate Qi2 natively makes its most expensive tier feel less competitive. The reliance on cases to bridge the gap creates a fragmented user experience that falls short of the premium expectations associated with the Ultra branding.

What to Watch

It remains to be seen if Samsung will address these hardware concerns in future iterations or continue to prioritize AI-centric software over physical standards. While the S26 Ultra remains a powerhouse in terms of raw performance, the industry is watching to see if Samsung will eventually embrace the magnetic ecosystem to prevent its flagship from feeling like a relic in a Qi2-driven world.