Missed Call

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Shock: 3x Telephoto Downgrade Coming?

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro just raised the bar with major telephoto and selfie camera upgrades on September 9, 2025. So, how’s Samsung planning to counter with the Galaxy S26 series in January 2026? Rumors point to a surprising twist for the S26 Ultra: a downgrade in its mid-range telephoto camera.

Leaker Ice Universe, known for sharp Samsung insights (and occasional critiques), spilled the details on X. If true, this could disappoint fans expecting flagship-level improvements. Let’s unpack what this means for the S26 Ultra’s camera setup.

Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 3x Telephoto: A Step Back?

Ice Universe reports the S26 Ultra’s 3x telephoto will use a 10MP sensor (possibly cropped from 12MP) with a 1/3.94-inch size, 1.0µm pixels, and f/2.4 aperture. Compare that to the S25 Ultra’s Sony IMX754: a larger 1/3.52-inch sensor with 1.12µm pixels for better light capture and detail.

This “downgrade” might stem from cost-cutting or supply issues. Ice notes Samsung considered a 50MP 4x telephoto but scrapped it due to timing. A 200MP telephoto? Too pricey, says the leaker. The result? A smaller sensor that could mean softer 3x shots, especially in low light, compared to the S25 Ultra.

S26 Ultra vs. S25 Ultra: 3x Telephoto Comparison

FeatureGalaxy S25 Ultra (3x)Galaxy S26 Ultra (3x, Rumored)
Sensor Size1/3.52-inch1/3.94-inch
Resolution10MP (from 12MP crop)10MP (from 12MP crop)
Pixel Size1.12µm1.0µm
Aperturef/2.4f/2.4
Focal Length70mm70mm

Smaller pixels often lead to noisier images, but Samsung’s software tweaks might help. Still, it’s a relative downgrade for a flagship.

Broader Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Rumors

The S26 Ultra’s full setup looks mixed. The main 200MP ISOCELL HP2 sensor (1/1.3-inch) stays the same—no upgrade to a rumored 1.1-inch Sony. The ultrawide likely carries over the S25 Ultra’s 50MP sensor. For the 5x periscope, expect a 50MP IMX854 (1/2.52-inch, 0.7µm)—not the hyped 200MP.

Ice Universe calls out the thick camera bump (nearly twice as on the S25 Ultra), questioning its purpose if modules aren’t advancing. Samsung’s internal debates suggest they’re weighing options, but changes seem unlikely now.

Compared to rivals:

  • iPhone 17 Pro: 48MP 1/2.55-inch telephoto (100mm, 5x equivalent).
  • Vivo X200 Pro: 200MP 1/1.4-inch (85mm).

Samsung’s 5x holds an edge in reach, but the 3x downgrade could hurt versatility.

Why This Matters for Samsung Fans

Ice Universe’s frustration is palpable—he even petitioned for Samsung’s camera team to step down. With the S26 Ultra expected in January 2026, this leak highlights Samsung’s camera stagnation. Past Ultras innovated (like the 200MP main), but recent years feel incremental. If the 3x sensor shrinks, it might push users toward digital zoom, relying more on AI processing.

That said, leaks can shift. Samsung might surprise with software magic or last-minute tweaks. For now, it’s a cautionary tale: the S26 Ultra’s optics could prioritize cost over cutting-edge hardware.

Galaxy S26 Ultra: What to Expect Overall

Beyond cameras, rumors hint at a thinner body (7.9mm at thinnest), Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip, and bigger battery. But if the telephoto disappoints, it could let iPhone 17 Pro steal the zoom crown. Keep an eye on more leaks—Samsung’s Unpacked is months away.

FAQs: Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Rumors

What is the rumored downgrade for the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera?

The 3x telephoto may switch to a smaller 10MP 1/3.94-inch sensor with 1.0µm pixels, down from the S25 Ultra’s 1/3.52-inch with 1.12µm pixels.

Why is Samsung downgrading the 3x telephoto on S26 Ultra?

Leaker Ice Universe cites cost and timing issues; alternatives like a 50MP 4x or 200MP sensor were considered but rejected.

Will the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s main camera upgrade?

No, it sticks with the 200MP ISOCELL HP2 sensor from previous Ultras, though the lens might get an f/1.4 aperture for better low-light.

How does the S26 Ultra’s 5x telephoto compare?

It likely keeps the 50MP IMX854 sensor; no 200MP upgrade expected, per recent leaks.

When will the Galaxy S26 Ultra launch?

Expected in January 2026 at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event.

Leave a Comment