Galaxy S26 Ultra: 60W charging is here!

Samsung's Galaxy S26 series, particularly the Ultra model, has arrived with a significant charging speed upgrade. The S26 Ultra is the first Samsung Galaxy phone to support up to 60-watt charging, a substantial improvement over the previous 45-watt limit. This enhanced charging, branded Super Fast Charging 3.0, allows the S26 Ultra to reach approximately 75% battery in just 30 minutes. This advancement addresses years of slower charging speeds compared to competitors.

The base Galaxy S26 model, while not receiving charging speed improvements and remaining at 25 watts, features a larger 4,300 mAh battery, up from 4,000 mAh in the prior generation. Both the S26+ and S26 Ultra also see faster wireless charging speeds, with the Ultra reaching 25 watts, compatible with Qi2 standards. However, achieving these speeds requires specific accessories like a 25-watt wireless charging pad and a magnetic case, as the phones themselves do not include the necessary magnets.

Reflecting a trend popularized by Apple, Samsung no longer includes charging bricks with new Galaxy devices. This means users must purchase a compatible high-wattage charger separately to benefit from the S26 Ultra's 60-watt capabilities. Fortunately, the market offers numerous affordable third-party gallium nitride (GaN) chargers capable of 100 watts or more, with 60-watt options available for around $40. This shift underscores the importance of accessories for realizing the full potential of modern smartphones.