[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] An analysis says Samsung Electronics' next flagship model, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, will have several differentiating features compared with Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max. On Feb. 23 (local time), IT-focused outlet PhoneArena presented three reasons the Galaxy S26 Ultra could have an advantage, based on the two products' expected specifications.

The first is a privacy protection feature. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to include display technology that limits viewing angles so the content is hard to see from the side. It is seen as a highly practical feature because it can shield sensitive information, such as notification messages or financial app data, from nearby onlookers.

The second is the camera configuration. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to keep a quad-camera system that includes a 200-megapixel main sensor. The lineup, which includes an additional telephoto camera, could improve usability across various zoom ranges, the analysis said. The iPhone 17 Pro Max, by contrast, is expected to retain a triple-camera setup.

The third is charging speed. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is said to support up to 60-watt wired charging with a 5,000 mAh battery, an improvement from its predecessor. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to include a roughly 5,088 mAh battery, but charging speed is projected to remain around 40 watts. That means battery capacity is similar, but charging times could diverge.

Another attraction cited is an anti-reflection (anti-glare) display. Samsung previously drew favorable reviews for improved anti-reflection coating on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. If that feature continues on the S26 Ultra, it could be likely to maintain an advantage in outdoor visibility. The iPhone also applies anti-reflection treatment, but an assessment says Samsung's effect is better.

There are also variables. The two models are expected to have a roughly six-month gap in their release timing, and differences in operating system ecosystems could affect consumer choices. The analysis says users accustomed to Apple's iOS environment may not find it easy to switch based on hardware differences alone.

In the end, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is seen as likely to have an edge in hardware-centered comparisons, including display technology, camera configuration and charging speed. The report said market assessments are expected to vary depending on build quality and the overall user experience.

Samsung Electronics is scheduled to hold an Unpacked event in San Francisco, California, at 3 a.m. on Feb. 26 (Korea time) and unveil the Galaxy S26 series.