A new hands-on video claiming to show the Galaxy S26 Ultra has surfaced online, but there’s a strong chance it’s fake. The clip, shared by well-known leaker Ice Universe, features what appears to be an official-looking retail box alongside a Galaxy S26 Ultra unit. However, closer inspection suggests the device is almost certainly a dummy rather than a functional retail model.
Leaked Galaxy S26 Ultra hands-on video likely doesn’t show the real phone
The box itself looks convincing at first glance. It closely mirrors Samsung’s recent Galaxy packaging style, with a minimal design and the phone’s silhouette printed on the front. The S Pen sits next to the device, creating a scene that feels deliberately polished. However, the phone appears to sit loosely inside the box, whereas Samsung’s retail packaging is typically designed to hold the device in a very snug, precise fit.
Breaking！
Someone leaked a suspected Galaxy S26 Ultra phone.If anyone can find the true source of this video, please let me know and I will tag the source. pic.twitter.com/bx91JlQssh
— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) January 6, 2026
On the inside, the Galaxy S26 Ultra does match previously leaked CAD renders. However, the finish on the camera lenses isn’t quite up to the mark. Dummy units are often built using the same CAD files that leak months ahead of launch, allowing case and accessory manufacturers to prepare their products. Casemakers sometimes send these non-functional models to creators for size and fit demos, and this could be one of those.
Nonetheless, the dummy offers another look at Samsung’s highly anticipated 2026 flagship. The final design should match the one seen in this video, featuring a camera bump and rounder corners and edges. Samsung is moving farther away from the boxy design its Ultra flagships were once known for.
The Galaxy S26 series should go official at the end of February, likely on February 25. Until then, leaks like this should keep coming, real or not. Meanwhile, you can sign up for our Mystery Box program to score exclusive benefits when you pre-order a Galaxy S26 at no extra cost. Each gift box contains a 65W charger, a protective case, and more accessories.