iPhones, watch out: The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first phone with this video upgrade
Source: Android Authority
TL;DR
- Samsung has confirmed that the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first phone to support the APV codec.
- This codec enables “visually lossless” video capture quality, even after repeated editing.
- Samsung lets you choose between two APV capture profiles for increased flexibility.
Advanced Professional Video (APV) Codec
Samsung phones have long been among the best Android phones for video recording. With the launch of the Galaxy S26 series, the Galaxy S26 Ultra brings a major video‑quality upgrade.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first Android phone to support Samsung’s Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, a royalty‑free format unveiled in 2023. Unlike HEVC and AV1, which prioritize storage efficiency, APV targets professional and enthusiast workflows, offering “visually lossless” quality that remains intact after repeated editing.
Samsung claims APV videos consume 20 % less storage than HEVC videos, while still delivering higher fidelity. For reference, AV1 can be up to 30 % smaller than HEVC, but only Google’s Pixel 10 phones currently support AV1 capture.
Key specifications for APV on the Galaxy S26 Ultra:
- Resolution & Frame Rate: Up to 8K @ 30 fps.
- HDR & Log support: Confirmed via testing.
- Capture profiles:
- APV 422 HQ (high quality) – 1080p @ 30 fps uses ~1.5 GB per minute.
- APV 422 LQ (low quality) – 1080p @ 30 fps uses ~750 MB per minute.
- External storage: APV footage can be recorded directly to an external drive, preserving internal storage.
While codec choice is crucial, overall video quality also depends on bitrate, stabilization, and lens optics. APV, however, provides a substantial boost for creators.
Galaxy S26 Series Overview
Samsung Galaxy S26
- Key features: Powerful performance, new Galaxy AI features, bigger battery.
- MSRP: $899.99
- Description: Compact flagship with a slightly larger display, solid battery life, fast performance, and the full suite of Galaxy AI features in a more affordable package.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus
- Key features: Powerful performance, new Galaxy AI features, faster wireless charging.
- MSRP: $1,099.99
- Description: Balanced middle‑ground option with a large display, long‑lasting 4,900 mAh battery, and faster wireless charging, while retaining the same AI capabilities as its siblings.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
- Key features: Privacy display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, Power AI features.
- MSRP: $1,299.99
- Description: Samsung’s slimmest and lightest Ultra yet, featuring a 6.9‑inch 10‑bit display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, redesigned cooling, a brighter 200 MP main camera, upgraded zoom, advanced 8K video capabilities (including APV), and exclusive privacy and AI tools.