It's high time for a change. | Image by PhoneArena
Ever since the Galaxy S21 Ultra in 2021, the 10MP 3x zoom sensor has been a permanent part of the Samsung flagship experience. For six generations, including the current S26 Ultra, this lens has kept the same megapixels, only slightly changing the sensor size.
Now, a new leak indicates the upcoming generation may finally 'break the cycle.'
Big changes may be coming
Early Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra rumors are in: that often mocked 3x telephoto, famous for being tiny and underwhelming, has finally changed. It didn't get stronger. It didn't get weaker. It's simply gone.
One of the most reliable leakers on all things Samsung, Ice Universe, has just dropped a bomb on X. According to the tipster, the South Korean tech giant may rework the camera configuration of its next flagship device.
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What camera upgrade would make you consider the Galaxy S27 Ultra?
Optics and software upgrades would be enough
10.85%
A new sensor is essential
19.35%
A complete overhaul of the camera system
60.41%
The camera is good enough already
9.38%
341 Votes
Reportedly, the upcoming flagship phone might not pack a quad camera setup, ditching the 10MP 3x zoom sensor that has stayed in place for six generations.
Samsung's Galaxy S27 Ultra may sport a special camera sensor. | Image by Weibo
Earlier leaks have suggested that Samsung may adopt its in-house, upgraded version of the 1/1.12 200MP HPA sensor. Reports indicate the S27 Ultra might have an ISOCELL HP6 main sensor, which could have a 1/1.3-inch size. The sensor is thought to support LOFIC ultra-high dynamic range technology.
The 10MP 3x zoom is unnecessary
The addition of a custom sensor for the main camera sounds great, but why is Samsung removing its 'legacy' 10MP 3x lens?
Will you miss the 3x zoom lens? | Image by PhoneArena
First of all, the LOFIC allows the camera to capture a wider range of light in a single photo. That reduces the need to combine multiple photos like traditional HDR does.
Secondly, with its improved dynamic range and light capture, the sensor could also make cropped zoom shots look significantly better. This is expected to help compensate for the lack of a dedicated 3x zoom lens.
Bottom line: when the main camera is so advanced, Samsung may see less need for a separate 3x telephoto sensor. That would save not just physical space but also component costs.
An identity crisis?
Time to join these bad boys, Samsung! | Image by PhoneArena
Will the Galaxy S27 Ultra lose that 'Ultra' identity? After all, major competitors like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL have three sensors on the rear. Ditching the fourth lens might make the S27 Ultra look "less premium" to some.
As I see it, this won't be an ultimate downside. At the end of the day, the main camera does most of the heavy lifting for many users. If Samsung can deliver a better experience with three high-end lenses than four 'adequate' ones, the S27 Ultra will be a win for photographers — just like its predecessors.
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Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.
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