New firmware hints that Samsung is still testing upgraded sensors for its 2026 flagship.
Earlier Leaks Suggested Disappointment—But That Might Change
Recent reports cast doubt on whether Samsung’s Galaxy S26 would offer any real camera hardware upgrades. Early firmware and tipster leaks pointed to reused components from the Galaxy S25, frustrating fans hoping for more progress.
But a new discovery may change that narrative.
Firmware Hints at New Sensors for the Galaxy S26
New findings from recent Galaxy S26 firmware files indicate that Samsung is still actively testing newer camera sensors for the upcoming device. These include unannounced and larger sensors that could signal meaningful upgrades across the board:
- Primary: 50MP ISOCELL GNG (unannounced)
- Ultrawide: 50MP ISOCELL JN3 (1/2.4-inch sensor, same as Galaxy S25 Ultra)
- Telephoto: 12MP ISOCELL 3LD
- Front: 12MP Sony IMX874 (same as S25)
How Does That Compare to the Galaxy S25?
| Camera | Galaxy S25 | Galaxy S26 (Tested) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | 50MP ISOCELL GN3 | 50MP ISOCELL GNG (new, unannounced) |
| Ultrawide | 12MP Sony IMX564 | 50MP ISOCELL JN3 (larger sensor) |
| Telephoto | 10MP ISOCELL S5K3K1 | 12MP ISOCELL 3LD |
| Front | 12MP Sony IMX874 | 12MP Sony IMX874 (same) |
Of note, the ultrawide camera, if Samsung uses the ISOCELL JN3, would mark a significant step up—doubling the resolution and increasing the sensor size, offering better detail and low-light performance.
The ISOCELL GNG, still unannounced, could also surprise with new capabilities, such as faster readout speeds, improved HDR, or better autofocus.
So What’s the Hold-Up?
Samsung appears to be testing two different sensor sets for the Galaxy S26 and S26+. It’s unclear whether the company has finalized its decision, or if the final production units will include these newer parts.
This means there’s still a realistic chance of meaningful camera hardware improvements—especially for users disappointed by the conservative upgrades in recent Galaxy S base models.
Why It Matters: Differentiation Is Crucial
The Galaxy S26 line is expected to launch with:
- One UI 8.5
- Exynos 2600 (in some markets)
- Up to 7 years of OS updates
- Possibly similar designs to the S25
If Samsung doesn’t push forward with noticeable camera improvements, it risks criticism for being too iterative—especially at a time when Apple and Google are ramping up camera innovations tied to AI and computational photography.
A camera hardware refresh could be just the differentiation Samsung needs to make the S26 stand out from its predecessors.
Recent Galaxy S26 firmware reveals that Samsung is testing new camera sensors, including an unannounced 50MP ISOCELL GNG and a larger 50MP ultrawide sensor. While nothing is confirmed, this gives hope that Samsung might still deliver meaningful camera upgrades with the S26 series.
