Recent leaks suggest that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature a downgraded 10MP 3x telephoto camera, a surprising move considering the advances made by rival Apple in their latest iPhone models. The mid-range telephoto camera on the S26 Ultra will sport a 3x f/2.4 lens with a 10MP 1/3.94” sensor with 1.0µm pixels, a step back from its predecessor.
Compared to the Sony IMX754 sensor used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which boasts larger sensor size and pixel size, the new telephoto camera on the S26 Ultra raises questions about Samsung's camera strategy for their flagship devices. With rumors circulating about potential upgrades to the main camera and ultra-wide lens, the decision to downgrade the telephoto camera has left some enthusiasts skeptical about the overall camera performance of the S26 Ultra.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra’s camera setup
In light of these leaks, discussions within Samsung are reportedly ongoing regarding potential alternatives for the telephoto module. Sources indicate that a switch to a 50MP 4x lens would not be feasible for the S26 Ultra at this stage. While there were speculations about using a 200MP sensor for the telephoto camera, concerns about cost have reportedly deterred Samsung from pursuing this option.
As anticipation builds for the unveiling of the Galaxy S26 series in January, tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further details about Samsung's camera innovations and the overall performance of the S26 Ultra.
