Galaxy S26 Ultra's S Pen doesn't like third-party Qi2 magnet cases

There were expectations that Samsung would finally bring integrated Qi2 magnets with the Galaxy S26 series. The handset was officially unveiled yesterday and now we know for sure that's not happening.

So your only option now is to either use one of Samsung's cases or a third-party cases. If you use the latter, your Galaxy S26 Ultra's S Pen may not like it.

Our very own Max Jambor has discovered that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will show a notification if you attach a third-party case with Qi2 magnets with the device.

The notification that pops up cautions the user that magnets in accessories “can interfere with your S Pen's signal.” It recommends that users try removing the accessory if they notice connection or writing issues.

Perhaps this is just a subtle nudge from Samsung to get people to use first-party cases for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, as presumably the same limitation should apply if the S Pen can get wonky due to magnetic interference.

Samsung is offering both magnetic and non-magnetic cases for the Galaxy S26 series, including the top-of-the-line model, so customers do have considerable choice when it comes to accessories for the device.

True Qi2 support without magnetic cases remains out of reach for now, hopefully Samsung might see to it next year.