Samsung’s Galaxy Ultra series has long carried the legacy of the Galaxy Note—particularly through its integrated S Pen experience. But if recent leaks are to be believed, that era may soon come to an end. According to trusted insider sources, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra could launch without a dedicated S Pen slot, marking a significant shift in design philosophy and user experience.

This move follows the removal of Bluetooth functionality from the S Pen in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, suggesting a continued deprioritization of stylus features across Samsung’s premium lineup.

Let’s dive deeper into what this potential change means for productivity lovers, stylus fans, and the future of Samsung’s flagship strategy.

A Glimpse into the Future: Galaxy S27 Ultra May Lose Built-in S Pen Support

According to well-regarded tech leaker @Jukanlosreve on X (formerly Twitter), Samsung is planning to eliminate the internal S Pen silo in the Galaxy S27 Ultra, expected to debut in 2026. While the phone will likely retain digitizer support—meaning the S Pen will still function—it won’t come with a slot to store it within the device.

This subtle yet significant shift would push users toward external S Pen storage, most likely through specialized protective cases, much like Samsung already does for its Galaxy Z Fold series.

The Evolution of the S Pen: From Note to Now

Let’s rewind a bit. The S Pen began as the hallmark of the Galaxy Note series, empowering users with unmatched precision for note-taking, sketching, and multitasking. However, after Samsung merged the Note lineup with the Galaxy S Ultra, it brought the S Pen experience over—first as an optional accessory, then later with full integration and an internal slot.

Here’s how it evolved:

• Galaxy Note Series: Always included an S Pen with built-in silo and robust features.

• Galaxy S21 Ultra: Introduced S Pen support without a slot.

• Galaxy S22 Ultra onward: Reintroduced the built-in S Pen silo.

• Galaxy S25 Ultra: Dropped Bluetooth functionality in the S Pen.

• Galaxy S27 Ultra (expected): May eliminate the dedicated S Pen slot altogether.

Why Samsung Might Be Removing the S Pen Slot

Several logical reasons could be driving this rumored change:

• Design Constraints: As phones get thinner and lighter, internal space becomes more valuable. Removing the silo frees room for a larger battery, improved cooling, or enhanced camera modules.

• Revenue Strategy: Offering the S Pen and compatible storage case as separate accessories may allow Samsung to tap into new revenue streams while simplifying the base hardware.

• Shifting Priorities: With an increasing focus on AI-driven features, foldable devices, and ecosystem integration, Samsung may be repositioning the S Pen as a niche productivity tool rather than a core feature.

User Impact: Convenience vs. Functionality

For many users, the built-in S Pen represents more than convenience—it’s a symbol of versatile productivity on the go. Removing the slot could:

• Undermine the effortless experience that defined the Ultra series.

• Increase reliance on bulky cases or third-party solutions.

• Potentially discourage casual users from embracing the S Pen at all.

On the flip side, for those who rarely use the stylus, this change may be insignificant.

What’s Next? Upcoming Samsung Unpacked Event

While this is all speculation for now, fans won’t have to wait long for new hardware. Samsung’s next Unpacked event is scheduled for July 9, where the tech giant is expected to unveil:

• The latest Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models

• New-generation Galaxy Smartwatches

• More hints about the future direction of its flagship devices

Conclusion: Is the S Pen Era Fading?

If the reports hold true, the Galaxy S27 Ultra’s removal of the built-in S Pen slot would mark a definitive step away from the Note-inspired legacy. While stylus support may live on through digitizers and accessories, the core identity of the S Pen could shift from being integrated and essential to optional and niche.

Samsung is clearly evolving—but the question remains: Are users ready to evolve with it?

FAQs

1. Will the Galaxy S27 Ultra still support the S Pen?
Yes, reports suggest it will support the S Pen through its digitizer screen, even without an internal slot.

2. Why is Samsung removing the S Pen slot?
Likely to make room for other hardware improvements such as a larger battery, improved cameras, or a slimmer design.

3. Can I still buy and use an S Pen with the S27 Ultra?
Yes, but it may need to be purchased separately along with a case designed to store it.

4. What does this mean for Galaxy Note users?
It could mark the end of fully integrated stylus experiences, pushing Note fans toward external solutions.

5. When will the Galaxy S27 Ultra be released?
While Samsung hasn’t confirmed the date, the Galaxy S series typically launches in Q1 each year, so expect a 2026 release for the S27 Ultra.