Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra leak just revealed bad news for the camera

Taking a photo with the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Samsung fans waiting for the Galaxy S26 Ultra could be in for some disappointing news when it comes to the camera, and it looks like it will continue until 2027 as well.

According to known leaker IceUniverse, the 50MP telephoto sensor that first appeared in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, then again in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, will likely be used in the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S27 Ultra.

I'm going to continue exposing the dirty laundry of Samsung's camera plans: they plan to use the same 1/2.52" 0.7μm 50MP backward telephoto sensor for four consecutive years in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S26 Ultra, and Galaxy S27 Ultra. Yes, just like the HP2…September 11, 2025

Samsung reusing camera sensors isn’t new, as the company has been using the 200MP ISOCELL HP2 main sensor since the Galaxy S23 Ultra. Meanwhile, Sony’s IMX754 3x telephoto sensor has been a part of the lineup since the Galaxy S22 Ultra.

It should be noted that it’s still very early days for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and that goes double for the Galaxy S27 Ultra. As such, it’s worth taking any leak or rumor with a grain of salt.

What could this mean for future Samsung phones?

(Image credit: Ice Unvierse)

If this leak turns out to be correct it would mean that the Galaxy S27 Ultra, a phone expected to release in 2027, would still use a sensor developed back in 2024. There’s also the question of what this decision would mean for the future of Samsung's phones compared to the competition.

For instance, Apple just unveiled the iPhone 17 Pro series, all of which feature the new Fusion Cameras as well as the new Center Stage selfie camera and a host of new features. While we haven’t had a chance to compare the iPhone 17 Pro Max to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, there is some debate in the office about which will come out on top.

There are of course benefits to reusing hardware, especially when it comes to krrpinh costs down. If this does turn out to be Samsung’s strategy, will it affect your decision to upgrade to a new Samsung model in the future? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

More from Tom's Guide

• Google Pixel 10's Pixelsnap accessories are facing some big issues — from overheating to loose screws
• Apple's MagSafe charger can now offer 25W wireless charging to non-iPhones — here's how
• Samsung confirms the tri-fold phone will launch later this year — here's what we know