The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra remains one of the best big-screen phones you can own in 2026. It has a superb display, a built-in S Pen and a camera system that still holds its own. If you already own one, the smart move is to protect and maintain it rather than upgrade, and the right accessories make that easy. This guide covers what Australian owners should buy and what to leave on the shelf.
Why the S23 Ultra Is Still a Great Buy
Samsung supports its flagships with years of software and security updates, so an S23 Ultra bought new or second-hand still feels current. The phone's large 6.8-inch display and S Pen make it a genuine productivity tool, and accessorising it well keeps that experience intact for far less than the cost of a new flagship.
Because the S23 Ultra has been on the market for a while, accessory prices have settled and the range is broad. That is good news for anyone shopping on a budget. You can now buy a quality case, a curved-fit screen protector and a certified charger for a fraction of what the same kit cost at launch, which makes maintaining the phone even more sensible than upgrading. The wide choice also means you can find accessories tailored to how you actually use the phone, whether that is heavy S Pen work, photography or simply a rugged setup for the outdoors.
Protecting a Big, Curved Screen
The S23 Ultra has a large display with gently curved edges, which is beautiful but more vulnerable than a flat screen. Protection is the first priority.
Cases built for a large phone
A phone this size is heavier and more awkward to grip, so drops are more likely. A rugged case with reinforced corners is worth considering if you are hard on your phone or work outdoors, while a slim case adds grip and scratch protection without much bulk. Whatever you choose, look for a case with a cutout or holder for the S Pen so you do not lose it. Our guide on how to choose a phone case in Australia covers the trade-offs, and you can browse fitted options in the Galaxy S23 Ultra accessories collection.
Screen protectors for a curved display
Curved screens are trickier to protect than flat ones. Full-adhesive tempered glass made specifically for the S23 Ultra follows the curve and bonds across the whole surface, which helps the in-display fingerprint sensor keep working. Hydrogel film is another strong option for curved displays because it flexes to the edges without lifting. Avoid generic protectors that are not cut for this exact model, as they tend to peel at the curves.
Keeping the Battery in Good Shape
Battery health is what separates an older flagship that still feels great from one that frustrates you. The S23 Ultra has a large battery and supports fast wired charging, but only with the right charger. A USB-C power delivery charger with PPS support will reach the phone's faster speeds, while a cheap plug may charge slowly and run hot.
Heat is the main enemy of lithium batteries, and Australian summers are punishing. Avoid charging the phone on a hot car dashboard, and if you notice charging has slowed, our guide on why your phone charges slowly walks through the usual culprits and fixes.
Charging and Power for Everyday Use
The S23 Ultra supports both fast wired and Qi wireless charging, so you can mix a cable for speed with a wireless stand for convenience. For the full picture on plugs, wattage and safe charging in our market, see the complete guide to phone charging in Australia.
A power bank is a worthwhile companion for a phone with a screen this large, since heavy use drains even a big battery. A 10,000mAh to 20,000mAh unit keeps you going through a long day and meets airline lithium battery rules for domestic and international flights from Australia. If you plan to carry the power bank on a plane, check its capacity in watt-hours, as most airlines allow units up to 100 watt-hours in carry-on without special approval, which covers the common consumer sizes.
For camping and road trips into remote parts of Australia, a larger power bank or a solar-capable option can be the difference between a working phone and a dead one when you are hours from the nearest town. Pair it with a good USB-C cable so you actually get fast charging out of it rather than a slow trickle.
Car, Travel and S Pen Extras
A secure car mount and a USB-C car charger are sensible for the long distances Australians drive, keeping the phone visible for navigation and topped up on the road. If you use the S Pen heavily, keeping a spare tip and a case that stores the pen safely will save frustration. For travel, a compact USB-C charger that can also power your earbuds and other devices cuts down on cables in your bag.
Getting the Most From the S Pen and Big Display
The built-in S Pen is a big part of what makes the S23 Ultra special, and a few accessories help you use it more. A case that stores the pen securely means you always have it to hand for notes, sketches and precise editing, while spare pen tips are cheap and keep the writing experience smooth if the original wears down. If you use the phone for real productivity, a folio-style case that props the display up turns it into a compact tablet for watching or reading.
Audio and the wider ecosystem
Like other modern flagships, the S23 Ultra has no headphone jack, so wireless earbuds are the natural choice and charge conveniently over USB-C alongside the phone. A portable Bluetooth speaker suits the big-screen phone for watching sport or films outdoors, and thanks to USB-C you can often run your phone, earbuds and speaker from one good charger.
Managing heat and glare outdoors
The large, bright display is superb but works hard in direct Australian sun, which can warm the phone and drain the battery faster. A light-coloured case reflects a little more heat than a dark one, and keeping the phone out of direct sun while charging helps protect the battery over the long term.
What to Skip and Your Consumer Rights
Some purchases are not worth it. Avoid uncertified chargers with inflated wattage claims, flimsy cables that fail quickly, and cheap screen protectors that do not follow the phone's curve. These often cost more in the long run.
Under the Australian Consumer Law, accessories must be of acceptable quality and last a reasonable time. If a case or charger fails under normal use, you are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund regardless of any shorter manufacturer warranty. Keep your receipt and buy from a seller who stands behind their products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Galaxy S23 Ultra still worth accessorising in 2026?
Yes. The S23 Ultra still receives software updates and remains a powerful, capable phone, so protecting and maintaining it is far cheaper than upgrading. Cases, curved-fit screen protectors and a good charger will keep it performing for years.
What kind of screen protector suits the curved S23 Ultra display?
Full-adhesive tempered glass cut for the S23 Ultra follows the curve and keeps the fingerprint sensor working, while hydrogel film flexes to the edges without lifting. Avoid generic protectors that are not made for this exact model, as they peel at the curves.
Do I need a special charger for fast charging?
Yes. To reach the S23 Ultra's faster charging speeds you need a USB-C power delivery charger that supports PPS, plus a good cable. Choose one with the Regulatory Compliance Mark from a trusted seller for safe use on Australian mains.
Will my case protect the S Pen too?
Many S23 Ultra cases include a cutout or holder that keeps the S Pen secure, but not all do. Check the case description before buying if keeping the pen safe matters to you.
Can I use MagSafe accessories with the S23 Ultra?
The S23 Ultra does not have built-in magnets like Apple's MagSafe, but you can add a magnetic case or ring to use magnetic mounts and chargers. On its own it supports standard Qi wireless charging.
Keep your S23 Ultra in top shape by browsing the Galaxy S23 Ultra accessories collection for cases, screen protection and charging gear built to fit.