Samsung Rumoured to Revive Variable Aperture Camera with Galaxy S26 Ultra
Samsung, known for its innovative yet sometimes fleeting technological advancements, is reportedly planning to reintroduce a long-lost camera feature in its upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. According to prominent tipster Ice Universe, the flagship device may feature a variable aperture lens on its primary rear camera.
Echoes of the Galaxy S9 Era
This move clearly signals a possible return to a feature that Samsung first introduced with the Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus. Specifically, these devices offered dual-aperture capabilities, allowing users to switch between F1.5 and F2.4 settings. In low-light conditions, the F1.5 aperture maximised light intake, while F2.4 optimised for daylight and a wider focus. As a result, this technology provided greater flexibility for capturing images in different lighting scenarios.
From Dual to Variable?
The dual-aperture feature carried over to the Galaxy S10 series. However, it was abruptly discontinued with the Galaxy S20. As a result, users had to rely on fixed aperture lenses. Now, it appears Samsung is set to revive this concept, potentially taking it a step further.
“Galaxy S26 Ultra is considering returning variable aperture to main camera,” stated Ice Universe, hinting at a potential expansion beyond the previous dual-aperture system. It’s unclear whether this will result in a fully variable aperture, like the multi-setting system in the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Alternatively, it could be a simple return to the dual-aperture design used in the past.
Camera Enhancements Continue
This development comes amidst a series of camera upgrades in the Galaxy Ultra line. The Galaxy S24 Ultra introduced a 50MP 5x optical zoom telephoto camera. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Ultra improved the ultrawide camera, upgrading it to 50MP. Now, the S26 Ultra is expected to take things even further by enhancing the 3x zoom telephoto lens with a 50MP sensor. As a result, its photographic capabilities will be even more impressive.
Beyond the Lens: Battery and Display Upgrades
Beyond the camera, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is rumored to incorporate a Silicon Carbon battery with a capacity of up to 5,500mAh, offering improved longevity. The device is also anticipated to feature a more power-efficient display, contributing to enhanced battery performance.
