
Samsung S26 Ultra Leads 2026 Tech Awards, but Price Hikes and Privacy Features Divide Critics
TIME named the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra a top 2026 invention for its new Privacy Display feature, which dims screen visibility from side angles to prevent snooping. The phone, priced at $1,399, became the year's fastest-selling Android device despite a recent price increase. Business Insider praised its camera system and performance but criticized its scratch-prone rear glass and battery size. Meanwhile, Apple’s new foldable iPhone Duo and Akai’s portable music studio also made the list, highlighting a year focused on privacy and portability.













