The Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to feature mostly the same camera hardware as its predecessor, the S25 Ultra, with a notable exception: the 10MP 3x telephoto camera will be upgraded to a 12MP S5K3LD sensor. This new sensor has been used by Samsung in other devices and offers a larger size than the one it replaces. Despite this being the only new sensor, Samsung plans to introduce several enhancements to improve the camera’s performance. These include a new Adaptive Pixel feature that reduces noise by combining multiple low-resolution images into one high-resolution photo, a 24MP option for default and portrait modes, and a focus speed slider for faster adjustments. Additionally, users will have the option to disable HDR10+ and use standard HDR. A new video format called APV will be available, offering two quality levels: APV HQ for high-quality recordings and APV LQ for lower quality. The primary 200MP and 50MP 5x cameras are expected to have larger apertures, allowing for better light capture and improved photo quality. While the ultrawide camera remains unchanged, software enhancements are anticipated to further refine the photography experience. The design of the Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature rounder corners and a pill-shaped camera array. Depending on the region, it will be powered by either the Exynos 2600 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite chip, paired with the latest RAM technology. There is some uncertainty regarding the charging speed, with reports suggesting either 60W or a continuation of the current 45W speed. Despite potential concerns about a price increase due to rising component costs, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to be a significant, if not revolutionary, upgrade.
Is Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra’s camera upgrade enough?
