Galaxy S27 series camera almost set in stone, with one major change taking shape

Discussions regarding the Galaxy S27 Ultra and its camera changes have been circulating for months. Now, a fresh report adds more weight to those rumors, suggesting the changes may be more than just gossip.

Galaxy S27 Ultra to debut with three cameras

Rumored camera specs for the Galaxy S27 lineup. | Image by ETNews, machine translated

According to an ETNews report from August 2, 2026, Samsung may equip all Galaxy S models with three cameras next year. If true, that could mean the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the last Ultra flagship with four rear sensors.

The Korean outlet claims Samsung will likely ditch the 10MP 3x zoom sensor, which has been a staple for Ultra models for six years. Interestingly, rumors that the Galaxy S27 Ultra could lose its dedicated 3x telephoto camera first surfaced all the way back in April.

Since several reports have now pointed to this change, it becomes increasingly likely that Samsung could retire the dedicated 3x telephoto lens. And yet, we'll have to wait for the official announcement before anything becomes certain.

What would you rather see on the Galaxy S27 Ultra?

What this means for the lineup

Beyond the Ultra model, the report suggests Samsung will introduce a more streamlined series than ever. According to ETNews, the "vanilla" and Plus models might remain largely unchanged, with both models reportedly coming with a 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy S27 Pro might be equipped with the same 200MP main and 50MP ultra-wide as the Ultra. Additionally, while the first-ever Galaxy S Pro is expected to complete its rear camera setup with a 12MP 3x telephoto camera, the Ultra could instead feature a 50MP 5x periscope telephoto camera.

But will this camera change affect the series? At this stage, it's too early to say. What's clear is that if the Ultra debuts with three instead of four cameras, Samsung may be borrowing a trick from Apple's playbook.

For years, Apple has focused on refining a triple-camera layout rather than expanding to four. And now, with Apple expected to introduce a variable aperture camera on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, this upgrade could give the iPhone an advantage over the S27 Ultra's camera.

Changes that may have a positive effect

Will the S27 Ultra be as thin as the S25 Edge, though? | Image by PhoneArena

At first glance, paying top dollar for a flagship phone with fewer cameras might feel like a downgrade. Still, if Samsung doubles down on optimizing the remaining sensors, the decision could be a potential win for mobile photography.

On top of that, ditching the 3x zoom lens could help Samsung hold the line on pricing, which is becoming increasingly important as component costs continue to rise.

Additionally, shedding a physical camera module frees up internal space. That could help Samsung develop a thinner and lighter design for the S27 Ultra next year. That upgrade will be particularly welcome for fans of ultra-slim profiles like the S25 Edge.

Let's see what comes next

The Galaxy S27 Ultra's rear camera configuration may not look like this. | Image by PhoneArena

At this stage, it's too early to say whether losing the dedicated 3x zoom camera will have a meaningful impact on the Galaxy S27 Ultra's photography experience. Still, removing a sensor that no longer provides a significant advantage seems logical from my standpoint.

What I'm more curious about is whether Samsung will equip the Ultra with a variable aperture camera. That upgrade could have a far greater impact on everyday photography than the removal of a 10MP 3x telephoto sensor.

And in case you want more Galaxy S27 news:

$90

$210

$120 off (57%)

Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.

Buy at Mint Mobile