Top-tier camera performance anticipated for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, even with the utilization of the identical main snapper sensor
The upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, set to be announced in January or February, is poised to make a significant leap in camera technology with a reportedly larger aperture main camera lens around f/1.5. This change represents the most notable camera hardware improvement since the Galaxy S20 Ultra era and aims to address long-standing issues like low-light softness and lag.
Brighter Lens, More Light Intake
By adopting a brighter lens aperture, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to allow up to 77% more light intake compared to the older f/1.7 aperture, significantly improving low-light performance. This upgrade should also result in reduced shutter lag and sharper photos in dim environments. Additionally, the enhanced natural background blur (shallower depth of field) will offer a more professional-looking aesthetic.
Samsung's Strategic Move
Samsung is retaining the 200MP sensor but pairing it with this brighter lens aperture, potentially compensating for using a smaller 1/1.3-inch sensor compared to competitors adopting larger 1-inch sensors. Some rumors also suggest Samsung may be testing an even larger 1/1.1-inch Sony 200MP sensor, but the more widely supported leak centers on the brighter aperture with the HP2 sensor.
Closing the Gap with Rivals
This upgrade is expected to close the gap with rivals using larger sensors and brighter lenses, improving dynamic range, sharpness, and overall image quality. With this improvement, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be on par with other devices launching in the same timeframe.
Other Features
The Galaxy S26 Ultra will continue to feature a telephoto and ultrawide lens, in addition to the main wide sensor. The exact details about the aperture size of the main camera sensor are not yet available, but it is expected to be larger than the f/1.7 aperture found in the Galaxy S23, S24, and S25 Ultra models.
There is disagreement among leakers regarding the charging and battery specifications of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, with some suggesting a charging upgrade over 45W and others indicating a potential 65W charging capability. Additionally, some leaks about the Galaxy S26 Ultra indicate a potential 5,500 mAh battery.
As for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, reports suggest that Samsung knows the device is not in high demand. On a separate note, Samsung Wallet is launching a 'Buy Now, Pay Later' option for store purchases.
| Model | Main Camera Aperture | Main Sensor | |---------------------|---------------------|---------------------| | Galaxy S23 Ultra | f/1.7 | 200MP ISOCELL HP2 | | Galaxy S24 Ultra | f/1.7 | 200MP ISOCELL HP2 | | Galaxy S25 Ultra | f/1.7 | 200MP ISOCELL HP2 | | Galaxy S26 Ultra | f/1.5 (expected) | 200MP ISOCELL HP2 / possibly 1/1.1" Sony 200MP |
[1]: Source 1 [2]: Source 2 [3]: Source 3
In the forthcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra, the brighter lens aperture is anticipated to facilitate a more significant light intake, improving low-light performance and reducing shutter lag. This upgrade also aims to provide sharper photos and a more professional-looking aesthetic due to the enhanced natural background blur.
Samsung's decision to incorporate a brighter lens aperture in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, despite retaining the 200MP sensor, potentially signifies a strategic move to compete with rivals using larger sensors and brighter lenses, thereby improving the device's dynamic range, sharpness, and overall image quality.
