Future Galaxy S Ultra phones could ditch the S Pen slot: internal space or separate price tag?

Samsung could be gearing up to drop the built-in S Pen slot from its future Galaxy S Ultra models, a move that’s sparking concern among fans. While the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to retain the S Pen slot, a recent leak suggests the company is eyeing a redesign down the line to reclaim internal space—though the S Pen itself won’t vanish altogether.

Since the Galaxy Note’s retirement, the S Pen has been an Ultra hallmark, tucked neatly into the phone’s frame. But that slot eats up real estate that could boost battery size. X user @PandaFlashPro reports that Samsung is mulling this shift, potentially starting post-S26 Ultra.

The S Pen won’t be included in the box, right?

Samsung is already struggling to manage the cost of including a charging cable in the box. They just switched from the 5A cable to a thinner 3A one, which also reportedly caused some compatibility issues with existing 45W official chargers. If the rumor about the S Pen slot is true, it’s likely that the premium drawing tool will get a separate price tag. Judging from the industry trends, it also appears to be a more viable reason behind the redesign than the shortage of internal volume.

Samsung trimmed the Bluetooth feature from the S Pen of the S25 Ultra, reportedly because a very small percentage of users actually use it. If the slot goes, an external S Pen—still supported—could revive Bluetooth connectivity, most likely at the cost of a hefty price tag.

The S26 Ultra, due next year, should include the S Pen slot, and the stylus itself may lack Bluetooth. Starting with the S27 Ultra, users might need to carry the stylus separately, much like Galaxy Z Fold owners. Or, Samsung will list a case alongside the stylist for sale that includes an S Pen slot. Nonetheless, this is a leak rather than official information, so take it with a pinch of salt.

(Source)