Samsung found a new way for you to insert the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s S Pen backwards
Source: Android Authority
TL;DR
- Samsung has long struggled with S Pen users storing the stylus backwards.
- With the S26 Ultra, a new design means it’s possible to store the S Pen rotated incorrectly along its long axis.
- Storing the pen like this won’t cause any damage, but will make one corner stick out.
Background
Ever since the retirement of the Note series, Samsung’s stylus solution has felt like it’s on borrowed time. Support continued with Galaxy S Ultra flagships, but the Fold 7 launching without S Pen support felt like a major slight. While long‑term prospects are still up for debate, Samsung is giving the S Pen fresh attention with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, introducing a new design element that comes with a small quirk.
In earlier models, users often inserted the stylus backwards. On the Galaxy Note 5, putting the S Pen in the phone backwards could damage hardware or get the pen stuck. Samsung eventually redesigned the storage area so the pen could not be fitted in backwards at all.
New S Pen Design
With the S25 Ultra, the end of the stylus opposite the tip was flat. The S26 Ultra changes this by giving that end a curved shape to match the phone’s frame.
Zac Kew‑Denniss / Android Authority
Because the new curve does not prevent rotation around the pen’s long axis, users can inadvertently insert the S Pen the wrong way. When this happens, a small corner will protrude from the side of the phone’s frame, looking and feeling off. The mistake is harmless—nothing will break—but it may be annoying for those who prefer a perfectly flush fit.
Impact
- Harmless mistake – No damage occurs if the S Pen is stored rotated the wrong way.
- Aesthetic/feel – A corner will stick out, which may be noticeable and feel “wrong.”
- User experience – Some users may not mind; others might obsess over proper insertion each time.
Galaxy S26 Ultra Overview
- MSRP: $1,299.99
- Display: 6.9‑inch 10‑bit panel with privacy mode
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy
- Camera: 200 MP main sensor, upgraded zoom, advanced 8K video
- Features: AI‑enhanced imaging, Ultra‑exclusive privacy tools, Galaxy AI
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung’s slimmest and lightest Ultra yet, pairing a high‑resolution display with top‑tier performance and a redesigned cooling system.