Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. iPhone 17 Pro Max: 5 Reasons to Wait for the February Launch
Is the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra better than the iPhone 17 Pro Max? Compare the 200MP camera, 60W charging leaks, and the new 2nm Exynos 2600 chip. [Updated Jan 19, 2026]
A. The Charging Revolution (The "Click-Magnet")
For years, Samsung fans have complained about 45W limits. Leaks confirmed on January 18, 2026, suggest the S26 Ultra will finally jump to 60W wired charging, hitting 75% battery in just 30 minutes—beating the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s 40W cap.
B. Camera: 200MP Monster vs. Cinematic Gold
- Samsung: Retaining the 200MP sensor but with a wider f/1.4 aperture for "impossible" low-light shots and 100x Space Zoom.
- iPhone: Sticking to the triple 48MP setup but winning on video with 4K at 120fps and superior skin-tone processing.
C. Display Innovation: The Privacy Screen
Samsung is reportedly testing a built-in privacy screen for the S26 Ultra that hides sensitive content from onlookers when used in public, a feature not yet seen on Apple devices.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (Leaks) | iPhone 17 Pro Max (Current) |
| Main Camera | 200MP (f/1.4) | 48MP (f/1.78) |
| Charging | 60W Wired / Qi2 | 40W Wired / MagSafe |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (Global) | A19 Pro (3nm) |
| AI Integration | Gemini Live & Physical AI | Apple Intelligence |
This video details why the S26 Ultra is expected to outperform the iPhone 17 Pro Max, providing the visual proof your readers are looking for.
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PTA Tax Calculator 2026: iPhone 16 & S25 Ultra Tax (Official)
PTA Tax Calculator 2026: Check Mobile Registration Tax on CNIC & Passport
Cyberian
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series: Estimated PTA Tax & Price (Jan 2026)
| Model | Expected Price (PKR) | PTA Tax (Passport) | PTA Tax (CNIC) |
| Galaxy S26 (Base) | PKR 295,000 | ~PKR 99,500 | ~PKR 120,900 |
| Galaxy S26 Plus | PKR 345,000 | ~PKR 155,000 | ~PKR 183,800 |
| Galaxy S26 Ultra | PKR 425,000+ | ~PKR 160,000 | ~PKR 190,000+ |
⚠️ Note: These rates are based on the latest 2025-26 FBR duty brackets for devices valued above $500. Final tax is calculated as a fixed duty plus 17% Sales Tax (Ad Valorem).
Strategic Guide: How to Save on PTA Tax in 2026
For your readers who find the taxes too high, include these "Insider Tips" to keep them on your site longer:
- The 60-Day Traveler Rule: If you are coming from abroad, you must register your S26 Ultra on your Passport within 60 days of arrival to avail the lower tax rate (roughly 15-20% cheaper than CNIC).
- 6-Month Temporary Registration: Overseas Pakistanis can still use the Temporary Registration system to use their phone tax-free for up to 120 days per visit—ideal for those visiting for weddings or holidays.
- FBR Tax Reduction Rumors: Mention that a motion was recently tabled in the National Assembly (December 2025) to lower mobile taxes in 2026. Advise readers to "Wait until after the February 2026 Budget Review" if they aren't in a rush to register.
- How do I check the PTA tax for my S26 Ultra? Dial
*8484#or visit the official PTA DIRBS portal. You will need your device’s IMEI (dial*#06#). - Is it better to register on CNIC or Passport? Passport registration is always cheaper (approx. PKR 30,000 savings for flagships) but requires a recent international arrival entry in your passport.
- Can I pay PTA tax in installments? Some Pakistani banks (like Alfalah or MCB) offer "Easy Monthly Installments" (EMI) for PTA tax payments through their apps.