Samsung is reportedly planning a significant redesign of the camera system for its upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra. Leaks suggest the company will remove the dedicated 3x telephoto camera module entirely. This move marks a departure from the current hardware configuration found in the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Previous 10 MP telephoto sensor replaced by digital zoom from larger main camera
The removal of the physical telephoto lens will be compensated by digital zoom capabilities. Samsung intends to use the new 200 MP ISOCELL HPA main camera sensor to provide a 3x digital zoom. This main sensor is expected to feature a 1/1.12-inch or 1/1.3-inch size. The previous generation Galaxy S26 Ultra utilized a separate 10 MP sensor with a 1/3.94-inch size for its 3x telephoto needs.
Early reports from leaker Ice Universe indicate that Samsung is making this change to simplify the camera array. However, the information remains unconfirmed and is currently in an early leak stage. Render images shared by Ice Universe show three rear cameras, which creates some ambiguity about whether the telephoto module will be physically present but disabled or completely absent.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra retains its dedicated telephoto sensor, which has been a point of discussion among users. The shift to relying on the main sensor for zoom functions represents a major change in optical strategy for the Ultra series. Industry observers are watching to see if this design choice impacts image quality at medium range.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the launch window or specifications for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. The details regarding the camera hardware changes are based on reports from industry insiders. Further confirmation will be required before these specifications become official.
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