Samsung Set to Correct a 4-Year Camera Flaw with the Galaxy S26 Ultra
Major camera upgrades and hardware improvements confirmed for Samsung’s next flagship
Galaxy S26 Ultra to Finally Address Persistent Camera Criticism
Samsung is preparing to correct a four-year-old oversight in its flagship lineup with the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. Recent leaks reveal that the device will not only maintain its high-end camera specifications but also introduce long-awaited improvements to its selfie and telephoto cameras, a feature that fans have demanded since the Galaxy S21 Ultra.
Telephoto Camera Finally Gets a Notable Upgrade
Since the launch of the Galaxy S21 Ultra, Samsung has refrained from upgrading its 3x zoom telephoto lens, a decision often criticized by photography enthusiasts. According to a reliable leak from Android Headlines, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature a new 12MP sensor for its 3x optical zoom telephoto camera.
- This represents a clear upgrade over the 10MP telephoto sensor used on recent Galaxy Ultra models.
- The update promises sharper, more detailed zoom shots, addressing a key gap in Samsung’s camera strategy.
Selfie Camera and Main Camera Improvements
The front-facing camera on the Galaxy S26 Ultra is also set to receive an upgrade, although exact specifications remain under wraps.
- Users can expect improved image quality and clarity, building on the brand’s efforts to enhance portrait and video call experiences.
- The device will retain its 200MP primary camera, but with a new lens design and a laser autofocus (AF) sensor for faster, more precise focusing.
ProVisual Engine and Controversial Design Tweaks
In addition to hardware upgrades, Samsung will leverage its next-gen ProVisual Engine, powered by the device’s new chipset, to deliver enhanced image processing.
- This engine aims to improve both photography and videography, pushing computational photography to new heights.
- Samsung has also reportedly scrapped the controversial camera rings that many users criticized for their “glued-on” appearance, opting for a sleeker, more refined design.
Hardware Enhancements: New Chipset, Vapor Chamber, and Storage
Under the hood, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature Qualcomm’s 3nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 processor across all global markets.
- Notably, Samsung will not produce a 2nm version of the chip in-house.
- The phone will incorporate a 20% larger vapor chamber for improved heat dissipation, ensuring better performance under sustained loads.
- Storage options will include 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, all paired with 16GB of RAM as standard.
S Pen and Display Refinements
While Samsung explored an S Pen without a digitizer, internal tests reportedly showed underwhelming results.
- As a result, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will use the same reliable S Pen as its predecessor, ensuring no compromise in stylus functionality.
The device will also feature:
- Thinner bezels for a more immersive viewing experience.
- A slimmer profile, enhancing ergonomics.
- Continued IP68 rating, ensuring resistance to dust and water.
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy S26 Ultra marks an important milestone for Samsung as it finally addresses lingering camera concerns while doubling down on premium performance and design. As the official launch approaches, excitement continues to build around what could be Samsung’s most refined Ultra model to date.
