Samsung galaxy s26 ultra: s pen loses bluetooth, gains qi2 charging?
The end of air actions?
Rumors are swirling that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will forgo Bluetooth support for its S Pen, a feature many users dearly missed on the S25 Ultra. This means the beloved Air Actions, which allowed remote control of the phone via the pen, might be a thing of the past. While the backlash against the S25 Ultra’s lack of Bluetooth was significant, Samsung appears resolute in this decision, as evidenced by a recent leak showcasing the S26 Ultra.
A leak reveals the disappointment
Tech enthusiast Sahil Karoul posted a YouTube video purportedly showing a Galaxy S26 Ultra purchased from a Dubai retailer. The video highlighted the absence of Bluetooth functionality in the S Pen, confirming early reports. Karoul's demonstration, including an attempt to trigger the camera shutter with the pen at a distance, proved the feature’s demise. This shift prioritizes another advancement, leaving many long-time users wondering what Samsung's reasoning is.
Why the bluetooth cut? qi2 charging takes center stage
The change appears to be linked to the introduction of Qi2 wireless charging, a new standard that utilizes a ring of magnets within the phone’s chassis. EMR (electromagnetic resonance), the Technology currently used to power the S Pen, is highly sensitive to magnets. Integrating Qi2 charging could create “dead zones” where the S Pen simply stops functioning. Samsung may be aiming for a middle ground by adopting a “passive stylus” based on the Universal Stylus Initiative (USI).
Emr vs. usi: a technological shift
For years, the S Pen has leveraged EMR, allowing for highly accurate writing and drawing without needing the pen’s battery. However, its magnetic sensitivity poses a challenge with the advent of Qi2. The USI standard offers a different approach, potentially enabling compatibility with a wider range of devices while mitigating the magnetic interference issues. The transition represents a significant shift in the S Pen's underlying Technology.
Qi2: a welcome trade-off?
While the loss of Air Actions is disappointing for some, the benefits of Qi2 wireless charging are undeniable. It promises faster and more efficient wireless charging, a feature that could be far more practical and useful for the average user than remote camera control. Samsung’s decision suggests a prioritization of modern charging standards over niche features, reflecting a broader trend in mobile Technology.
The verdict: progress or regression?
Ultimately, the question remains: is this a step forward or backward? The S Pen will likely remain highly responsive and enjoyable to use, even without Bluetooth. While the ability to act as a “magic remote” was a unique and appreciated feature, the move towards Qi2 charging and potentially a more versatile stylus system could prove to be a worthwhile trade-off. Samsung appears confident in its decision, and the market will soon judge its wisdom.