The Samsung Galaxy S26+ operating sysem is Android 16 boosted by One UI 8.5 to provide AI interface. The phone has 12 GB ram, 512 GB storage and a fast Exynos 1280 prociding a refresh rate of 120/Sec. The screen size is 6.7 inches and the colors are vivid when compared to most of my other devices. The case has square edges and fits my hand better than the old cellphones I have owned.
The S26+ has four cameras. The front camera is a 12 mp and used for selfies. The rear cameras are a 10 mp for 3x Zoom, portraits, and distant subjects, 12 mp for landscapes, architecture, and group shots and a 50 mp for everyday shots, high detail, low light. The 12 mp in the photo screen allows 0.5 , 1, 2, and 3X zooms where the S26+ choose between 10 and 12 mp cameras for the the best shot. The 50 mp camera does not zoom.
The usb 45W for fast charging does not come in the box. I purchased a Belkin single usb connection from Walmart for $17. The battery is bigger than the S21+, but seem to last about the same time because of high demand of the S26+.
A protective case was purcased when I ordered my S26+. It had a magnetic ring in the back. Sadly, I expected it to come with a finger holder but not included. Made one from the felt side of velcro and sewed in place after drilling holes in protective case. Works great.
I used the transfer software on the new phone to move apps from my old cellphone. Most apps transfered, but the rpm meter counting a rotating magnet did not because it was not suppored by the new S26+ hardware. I have not found a replacement app so may not be able to measure rpm. Duo also lost conectivity to my University Account and I need to get an activation code for their IT group.
The old dropbox connection used for S21+ file transfer was lost. Dropbox wanted a monthly fee for downloads. Fortunately the new S26+ allows direct connection to my laptop via Bluetooth. Works great for file and photo transfer and free.
Thoughts and hacks.
The 50 mp does not zoom in the S26+ but does with the next level phone. Apparently, they deleted if from the S26+ software.
The S26+ processing speed appears to be the same as the old S21+.
The square edge of the S26+ makes it easier to hold than the S21+.
Sound quality from the S26+ is fuller and better than the S21+.