Samsung Galaxy S27 Plus UWB Connectivity
The Samsung Galaxy S27 Plus will likely exclude ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, according to filings from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
While the current Galaxy S26 Plus features UWB, industry documentation suggests this functionality will be reserved for higher-tier models in the upcoming generation.
Samsung is not removing the technology from its entire lineup.
The S27 Pro and S27 Ultra remain slated to include UWB support, effectively pushing the feature into the company’s more expensive product tiers. This shift suggests a change in how Samsung differentiates its hardware specifications between the standard and “Plus” models.
How UWB Technology Enables Device and SmartTag Tracking
Ultra-wideband technology operates by emitting short radio pulses across a wide frequency band. This allows devices to communicate with their immediate surroundings, measuring distance and direction through time of flight (ToF) and angle of arrival (AoA) data. BGR reported that UWB technology allows Samsung Galaxy Plus devices to track down the company’s Galaxy SmartTag 3.
While the SmartTag 3 is compatible with iPhones, the lack of UWB integration on Apple devices prevents them from using features like Compass View. On supported Samsung devices, UWB enables users to control smart home appliances and track personal items with three-dimensional accuracy.
Hardware Differences Between Galaxy Models and User Reactions
The potential removal of UWB follows a pattern of hardware distinctions between Samsung’s base and Plus models. Currently, the Galaxy S26 Plus offers a 6.7-inch display and faster charging, capable of reaching 69% battery capacity in 30 minutes. In contrast, the standard Galaxy S26 features a 6.3-inch display and reaches 55% charge in the same timeframe.
Some users have expressed frustration regarding these potential hardware changes. On Reddit, critics argued that the move to strip features from the S27 Plus is an arbitrary attempt to manufacture differences between devices. One user characterized the company’s recent strategy as “coasting hard,” while others suggested that such changes reduce the overall quality and value of the Galaxy S series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of UWB on Samsung devices?
UWB technology uses short radio pulses to measure distance and direction between devices. It is primarily used for precision tracking of items like the Galaxy SmartTag 3 and for controlling smart home appliances.
Will the standard Galaxy S27 support UWB?
MIIT filings indicate that UWB connectivity is being limited to the S27 Pro and S27 Ultra models.
The documentation suggests the S27 Plus will not include the hardware necessary for this functionality.
Does the Galaxy SmartTag 3 work with non-Samsung phones?
Yes, the Galaxy SmartTag 3 is compatible with iPhones. However, iPhone users cannot access UWB-specific features such as Compass View, which requires the proprietary radio protocol found in Samsung’s higher-tier devices.