Samsung has confirmed the permanent removal of Bluetooth Low Energy from the S Pen with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, extending a controversial change from the S25 Ultra. The company cites low user adoption and a strategic shift toward wearable-based gestures, but this move has drawn significant backlash from power users who relied on remote control features, with little indication of a reversal as Samsung pivots to new innovations like privacy displays.
Bluetooth support for the S Pen debuted with the Galaxy Note 9, enabling remote camera control, app navigation, and Air Actions. This connectivity was a key differentiator for productivity and creativity. However, in 2025, Samsung eliminated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) from the S Pen on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the recently launched Galaxy S26 Ultra continues this design, confirming the change is permanent.
Samsung officially stated that BLE was removed because the feature saw limited usage, and users could achieve similar hands-free photo capture through gesture controls on the Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch Android Police. This rationale, while practical from a cost-saving perspective, overlooks a dedicated subset of users who integrated Bluetooth into their daily workflows.
The loss of Bluetooth means S Pen users can no longer use remote control features such as navigating the Internet Browser and Notes apps, recording voice notes, or utilizing Air Actions for presentations and media control. What remains are core functionalities like pressure-sensitive writing and drawing, along with Air Command for quick tool access, all without the need for pairing or charging, which simplifies device switching.
User reaction has been sharply negative, with communities on Reddit and tech forums voicing displeasure over the stripped capabilities. Many see this as a regression, especially as Samsung’s wearables, while offering some替代 functions, require additional investment and lack the S Pen’s precision. This sentiment is documented in ongoing discussions following the S26 Ultra’s release BGR’s coverage.
With two flagship models now devoid of S Pen Bluetooth, a comeback seems increasingly unlikely. Samsung has a history of revisiting or discontinuing features—such as the Galaxy Trifold and ultra-thin Galaxy Edge devices—but the company appears committed to this decision. Instead, Samsung is doubling down on the S26 Ultra’s new privacy display, a pixel-level technology that blocks side-angle viewing for enhanced security as detailed in reports. This focus on novel hardware suggests resources are allocated away from restoring legacy S Pen features.
For developers and power users, the removal of Bluetooth means adapting workflows or exploring third-party alternatives that may not match the seamless integration once offered. The S Pen remains a powerful tool for direct input, but its role as a versatile remote controller has effectively ended. Samsung’s prioritization of wearables and privacy innovations signals a long-term strategic shift that leaves Bluetooth-dependent features behind.
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